Of Plagues and Blasphemy: A Medieval Horror Anthology

Amanda Havill Adgate curates Of Plagues and Blasphemy, a collection that examines the intersection of faith and decay in medieval Europe. The volume gathers eight distinct narratives from contributors including Ashley Graves, Julia Jackson, and C. J. Subko. These writers explore how spiritual devotion can turn grotesque when faced with the physical realities of pestilence. The stories focus on moments where hunger is sanctified and the human body becomes a site of betrayal rather than grace. The anthology does not shy away from the visceral nature of its setting. Readers encounter tales where prophecy drives characters to commit acts that rot their souls from within. The structure allows for varied perspectives on this dark historical period, moving beyond simple ghost stories to examine the psychological and physical corruption of the era. The collection is organized to highlight the tension between religious expectation and bodily failure. This book suits readers who enjoy historical horror grounded in specific cultural anxieties. It appeals to those interested in gothic fiction that critiques institutional power through the lens of disease. Those seeking lighthearted adventure or modern supernatural tropes may find the tone too heavy. The work remains focused on the grim realities of the Middle Ages without offering escape from its oppressive atmosphere.