St. Irvyne; or The Rosicrucian

Exploring themes of love, danger, and the supernatural, the novel follows Wolfstein, who, after contemplating suicide in the Swiss Alps, becomes embroiled in a harrowing adventure with a group of bandits. Captured alongside Megalena, a beautiful prisoner, he learns of a looming threat and orchestrates an escape after poisoning their captor. As they seek refuge in Genoa, their relationship is tested by external forces, leading Wolfstein to face critical choices. This Gothic tale showcases Shelley's early foray into darker literary themes.