Charlotte Otten’s “The Literary Werewolf” is a captivating anthology that delves into the enigma of the werewolf, offering an unparalleled exploration of this mythical creature in relation to human behavior and various aspects of the human psyche.
The anthology is meticulously arranged into ten story groups, each focusing on a different human need for animal transformation. The tales span a wide range of themes, from the erotic and rapacious werewolf to the supernatural, victimized, avenging, guilty, unabsolved, and voluntary werewolf.
Otten’s anthology begins with an introductory essay, followed by a series of stories and essays. The first part, “The Erotic Werewolf,” includes an excerpt from Stephen King’s “Cycle of the Werewolf” and Manly Banister’s “Eena.” The second part, “The Rapacious Werewolf,” features Guy de Maupassant’s “The Wolf” and Saki’s “Gabriel-Ernest”. The anthology continues with sections dedicated to the diabolical, supernatural, victimized, avenging, guilty, unabsolved, and voluntary werewolf. Each section is introduced by an essay from Otten and includes stories from renowned authors such as Rudyard Kipling, Fritz Leiber, and Algernon Blackwood.
The anthology concludes with “The Voluntary Werewolf,” featuring Saki’s “The She-Wolf,” Jane Yolen’s “Green Messiah,” and Bruce Elliott’s “Wolves Don’t Cry”. The anthology has received positive reviews for its comprehensive exploration of the werewolf myth. Reviewers have praised it for providing a great view into the historical understanding of werewolves, blending scientific, theological, and fictional work. It’s recommended for anyone interested in werewolves.
In conclusion, “The Literary Werewolf” by Charlotte Otten is a must-read for anyone interested in the exploration of the werewolf myth and its relation to human behavior and psyche. It offers a unique blend of stories and essays that delve deep into the various aspects of the werewolf, making it a fascinating read.
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The Literary Werewolf: An Anthology by Charlotte F. Otten | Goodreads
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