<p>Matthew Lewis's 'The Monk' is a gothic novel that explores themes of religion, morality, and the consequences of unchecked desires. Set in 16th-century Spain, the book follows the downfall of Ambrosio, a virtuous monk whose innocence is corrupted by the temptations of a beautiful woman and the allure of black magic. Lewis's writing style is characterized by its vivid descriptions of macabre events and its exploration of the darker aspects of h...