A review by elmeco
The Black Spider by Jeremias Gotthelf

dark sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Damn. Written by a 19th century countryside pastor and it shows. Very much designed to put the fear of God on you and man, does it excel. Despite the Devil and his minions making an appearance, the Black Spider is at the forefront here which not only serves as an allegory for a plague, but utilizes other elements of man's primal fear. Incorporating a Faustian legend and Swiss history (specifically within the Bernese countryside) makes this tale all the more captivating. Highly, highly recommend.

Also not only was Albert Bitzius great at suspense and horror, but man, is he even better at describing food and drink.