Adelgitha or The Fruits of a Single Error - Matthew Lewis

4 Science Fiction Stories by Mack Reynolds · Jul 21, 2026 · 2h 2m

Adelgitha; or, The Fruits of a Single Error is a gripping Gothic tragedy by Matthew Lewis that explores the harrowing tale of a fallen woman who faces relentless blackmail from a tyrant after rejecting his advances. Set against the backdrop of Otranto during the High Middle Ages, the drama intertwines fictionalized historical figures, including Robert Guiscard and Michael Ducas, to amplify its themes of treachery, madness, and despair. Though it may not be the most refined work, its ability to evoke intense emotions and moral dilemmas makes it a timeless exploration of power, vulnerability…