# Canon Alberic's Scrapbook explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by M. R. James.

## What happens

Dennistoun visits St. Bertrand de Comminges and acquires a remarkable scrapbook compiled by Canon Alberic de Mauléon, containing priceless illuminated manuscript leaves and a terrifying sepia drawing of a demonic figure before King Solomon. The sacristan and his daughter display intense fear, and the drawing is later photographed and burned by Dennistoun.

## Themes in this chapter

### Antiquarianism and the Past

Dennistoun's scholarly pursuit of ancient manuscripts and the scrapbook's collection of medieval illuminations.

### Supernatural and the Uncanny

The terrifying sepia drawing of a demonic figure that causes horror and psychological distress.

### Guardianship of Secrets

The sacristan and his daughter's fearful behavior and the hidden knowledge within the scrapbook.

## Character check-ins

### Dennistoun

The protagonist who acquires the scrapbook and is deeply impressed by the drawing.

### The Squire

Dennistoun's companion who comments on the cost of masses for Alberic de Mauléon.

### Abbot Thomas

Mentioned as Abbot Thomas von Eschenhausen of Steinfeld in the context of the scrapbook's contents.

## Key lines

> I hope it isn't wrong: you know I am a Presbyterian—but I—I believe there will be 'saying of Mass and singing of dirges' for Alberic de Mauléon's rest.

The Squire expresses concern that as a Presbyterian he might be wrong to hope for Catholic masses for Alberic's soul.

_Reflects the Squire's religious discomfort and the theme of death._

> He was laughing in the church.

The sacristan tells his daughter that someone was laughing in the church, causing her terror.

_Suggests a supernatural presence or event in the church._

> It was drawn from the life.

Viewers of the drawing universally remark that the demonic figure appears to have been drawn from a real model.

_Highlights the uncanny realism of the illustration._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_35_se/chapters/canon-alberic-s-scrapbook
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_35_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_35_se/chapters