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Set in the sinister monastery of the Capuchins in Madrid, this is a violent tale of ambition, murder, and incest. The struggle between maintaining monastic vows and fulfilling personal ambitions tempts its main character into breaking his vows.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1841.

In 'The Zincali: An Account of the Gypsies of Spain,' George Borrow offers a meticulous and deeply intimate portrait of the Roma community in the 19th century. Borrow masterfully marries ethnography with travel writing, narrating his experiences and observations with the linguistic finesse of a novelist. The book delves into the multifaceted culture of the Zincali, from their language to their customs, bridging the gap between outsiders and a frequently misunderstood society. Set within the literary context of Victorian travelogues, Borrow's work stands out for its personal touch and unwavering attention to detail, reflecting a profound engagement with his subjects. George Borrow, an English author and linguistic virtuoso, became fascinated with the Gypsies during his time in Spain as an agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society. His linguistic prowess allowed him to learn Romani, granting him unique access to the guarded world of the Zincali. His incarceration for his missionary work further underscored his commitment to cultural immersion and understanding, culminating in this illuminating chronicle. The book is informed not only by Borrow's advocacy for religious dissemination but also by his genuine interest in the lives of the people he lived among and learned from. 'The Zincali' is highly recommended for readers interested in Roma culture, historical travel literature, or the broader tapestry of Spain's cultural mosaic. Borrow's work transcends its time as an illuminating and compassionate study of a marginalized community. Scholars and lay readers alike will find in 'The Zincali' a resonant narrative that continues to inform our understanding of cultural diversity and the timeless human quest for connection and identity.