Robert Louis Stevenson's Thrawn Janet and Markheim : A Commentary

‘Thrawn Janet’ (1881) and ‘Markheim’ (1885) have the diabolical as their theme, and their sinister settings and atmospheres are expertly created. ‘Thrawn Janet’, set somewhere in the Scottish Borders at the beginning of the eighteenth century, is written in Scots. Its protagonist, a fresh young minister, pays a heavy price for his scepticism about the existence of witches and the devil. ‘Markheim’ is set in a pawnbroker’s shop in contemporary London. Its protagonist is guilty of greed and murder. His remorse and repentance are induced by the appearance of a mysterious stranger.Professor Campbell guides the listener through these gothic short stories, exploring their psychological and supernatural elements, and accompanied by atmospheric readings of selections from the texts.This audio CD makes an excellent tool for classroom use or for home study.