With the start of Lent, I thought I’d look at one of the popular tropes in Gothic Literature–The Clergy.
“Men of the Cloth” are supposed to exemplify the highest moral standards and are the perfect group to twist into villains. Often, the Catholic clergy is the chosen group, whether that comes from the early days of conflict between Protestants, Anglicans, and Catholics is up for debate, although I figure it is a source from early Gothic literature that has carved its place into history.
As an adult convert to Catholicism, I find this trope interesting. I’ve used it in a few of my books however my priests struggle more with tending to the moral struggles of the characters who seek their advice and penance. The major corruption the priests in my books are guilty of is accepting bribes and turning a blind eye to their congregants’ behavior. As I wrap up both The Redwood Trilogy and The Pale Shade of Winter saga I will reintroduce the readers to at least a couple of priests whose journeys are not yet finished.
In Gaston Hall, I created a character who masquerades as a Southern Baptist minister. He enjoys the fruits of his leadership while engaging in adultery and (spoiler alert) murder.
I’ll admit, the first time one of my ghostly spirits may have caused the death of a priest gave me pause for thought. I even had a few folks suggest I could be banned from the Church for such a thing.
Thoughts on this trope?
Comments