Nocturnal Vigils of Bonaventura

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It was not until 1987 that Ernst August Friedrich Klingemann (1777–1831), who hid behind the pseudonym Bonaventura, was identified as the author of the “Nocturnal Vigils.” The biting satire directed at those in power, the clergy, and the judiciary is so sharp at times that using a pseudonym might have been the only protection against the rightful indignation of those targeted. Ironically, this is the only work from Klingemann's extensive body of work that has stood the test of time. A classic of horror literature, the “Nocturnal Vigils” represents the dark side of the romantic spirit, where the devil is a father, the bride hails from the asylum, and gravediggers along with wandering spirits are common companions.