| The Basic Storyline |
| Okay, let's just say right at the outset that trying to explain the Titus books by Mervyn Peake involves quite a bit of difficulty in the same way that the Pacific Ocean involves quite a bit of water. Also, as neither Fred nor CiCi have managed to wade through the complete trilogy yet, here's the very bare bones. We will elaborate at a later date, promise! |
| Welcome to Castle Gormenghast. Over the course of a few weeks, a son is born to the 76th Earl of Groan, Sepulchrave. The child is called Titus, and is extremely ugly, except for having striking violet eyes. |
| At the same time, a kitchen boy, Steerpike, escapes from the kitchens and decides to destroy the House of Groan and all Gormenghast with them. He has severe psychological issues to say the least. |
| Steerpike gradually insinuates himself into castle life, befriending Fuchsia, the Earl's daughter, becoming an assistant to Doctor Prunesquallor, and finally attaining the rank of Master of Ceremonies - all life in Gormenghast revolves around the ceremonies, and nothing can be done without involving ritual in some way. |
| Anyway, in the midst of all this Titus is growing up, and thoroughly hates Gormenghast - a shocking thing. And it all goes to pot from there. |
| More in-depth analysis later, we promise! Any further questions, complaints or psychotic ravings may be sent to the relevant departments at [email protected] |