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The Turn of the Screw is a novella written by Henry James, first published in 1898
. This classic ghost story is known for its ambiguity and psychological complexity. The narrative is presented as a manuscript written by an anonymous narrator who recounts a chilling tale originally told by a former governess. The governess is employed to care for two orphaned children, Miles and Flora, at the remote Bly estate in England.As the governess becomes increasingly isolated at Bly, she begins to believe that the estate is haunted, and she sees apparitions of two former servants, Peter Quint and Miss Jessel. The novella explores themes of innocence, corruption, and the blurred boundaries between the supernatural and the psychological.
The Turn of the Screw is renowned for its psychological ambiguity, leaving readers uncertain about whether the ghosts are real or manifestations of the governess's unraveling psyche. The novella is celebrated for its skillful use of suspense and its investigation of the psychological impact of repressed desires and social expectations.
Read the free full text, the full book summary, an in-depth character analysis of the governess, and explanations of important quotes from The Turn of the Screw.
