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animated-stone-statues

Stone statues and carvings in York Cathedral are magically animated, speaking in ancient and mixed languages to reveal historical events and grievances.

1 chapter across 1 book

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell (2004)Susanna Clarke

Chapter 15

In this chapter, the magicians of the York society gather in York Cathedral and experience a magical phenomenon where the stone statues and carvings come to life and speak, recounting ancient grievances and histories. The voices reveal dark past events, including a murder witnessed only by the stones, and express anger and sorrow over human actions through centuries. The spell's effects extend beyond the cathedral, startling even masons working on statues outside.