# Epigraph explained — The Monk

> Chapter companion for The Monk by M. G. Lewis.

## What happens

The epigraph sets a Gothic tone by invoking dreams, magic terrors, spells, witches, and ghosts that roam at midnight, foreshadowing the supernatural and horrific elements of the novel.

## Themes in this chapter

### Superstition and the Supernatural

The epigraph directly references magic, witches, and ghosts, establishing a supernatural atmosphere.

## Key lines

> Somnia, terrores magicos, miracula, sagas, Nocturnos lemures, portentaque.

Dreams, magical terrors, wonders, witches, nocturnal ghosts, and portents.

_The Latin epigraph lists supernatural phenomena, setting the Gothic mood for the novel._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monk_se/chapters/epigraph
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monk_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_monk_se/chapters