'Septimus' Summary

Septimus is a psychological thriller by William John Locke, first published in 1909. The novel tells the story of Septimus, a mysterious stranger who arrives in the small village of Nunsmere. Septimus is a gifted musician and painter, but he is also deeply troubled. He is haunted by visions and voices, and he seems to be slipping into madness.

The arrival of Septimus has a profound effect on the residents of Nunsmere. They are drawn to his charisma and his intelligence, but they are also disturbed by his strange behavior. Soon, the villagers begin to question their own sanity. They start to see things that aren't there, and they hear voices that aren't real.

The novel explores the themes of sanity and madness, reality and illusion, and the nature of evil. It is a dark and suspenseful story that will keep the reader guessing until the very end.

The novel begins with the arrival of Septimus in Nunsmere. He is immediately taken in by the villagers, who are impressed by his talent and his intelligence. However, Septimus's behavior soon becomes increasingly erratic. He starts to see visions and hear voices, and he becomes increasingly withdrawn and secretive.

The villagers are divided in their opinion of Septimus. Some believe that he is truly mad, while others believe that he is simply eccentric. However, as Septimus's behavior becomes more and more disturbing, even his most ardent supporters begin to doubt his sanity.

The novel culminates in a series of events that leave the villagers questioning everything they thought they knew about Septimus and themselves. Is Septimus really mad? Or is he something more? The novel leaves the reader guessing until the very end.

Septimus is a complex and suspenseful novel that explores the dark side of human nature. It is a story that will stay with the reader long after they have finished reading it.