At The Ghost Hour
The novel "At the Ghost Hour" set in a provincial town in northern Germany, where the haunted house of "The Unbelieving Thomas" stands on a street filled with ancient, high-gabled homes. Over the years, the significance of the old families has diminished as the area transforms into a bustling neighborhood, yet the ghostly reputation of the old house remains.
The story follows Wenzel Kospoth, a cobbler and the new janitor of the haunted house. Despite the fear surrounding it, he allows two women, Frau Cordula and her daughter Gundula, to live in a small, gloomy stable behind the house after they fled from a witch-hunt in their village. While the townsfolk consider them witches, the mother and daughter prove to be kind-hearted and resourceful.
As time passes, Gundula catches the attention of a young doctor, Philip, who, after an accident, is treated by Frau Cordula and develops feelings for Gundula. Their budding romance occurs against the backdrop of the ongoing superstitions concerning the house and its inhabitants.
However, the story takes a dramatic turn when the haunted house catches fire, prompting Philip to rescue Gundula and her mother. Amid the chaos, the true character of all involved is revealed, culminating in Philip's declaration of love for Gundula. Despite the challenges posed by their social differences and the town's prejudices, he vows to marry her.
Ultimately, the novel explores themes of love, compassion, and the absurdity of superstition, as well as the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
