← Back to Concept Index

magical-fear-and-anticipation

The magicians experience fear and nervous anticipation, associating the tolling bells and voices with fairy magic and ominous fate.

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.