Catholic Sensationalism and Victorian Literature offers a highly original examination of Victorian sensationalism through the exploration of popular literary representations of Roman Catholicism, that exotic, corrupt religious Other which is inscribed as the implacable anti-English enemy. The book demonstrates how new understandings of cultural tensions of the period are gained through the association of Roman Catholicism with secular fears of crime, sex and violence, rather than with theological ‘excesses’ and doctrinal ‘superstitions’.

‘An insightful and genuinely fresh piece of work, detailed and well-argued. The author ranges widely across both canonical and non-canonical works and makes many excellent observations about them.'

Andrew Maunder Source: University of Hertfordshire

‘A beautiful work that is a pleasure to read: balanced, rich, nuanced in its textual analyses.’

Source: Cahiers Victoriens & Edouardiens

‘Blending historical and cultural discussion with the literary, Moran seeks the underpinnings that uphold the large canvas of anti-Catholic writing throughout the Victorian era. Throughout the book, successfully dissects an interesting binary at work--that in its sensationalized form, Victorian Catholicism can signify difference that is menacing; but it can also entertain stimulating alternatives to the norms of home culture.’

Source: English Literature in Transition 1880-1920