The Strangler of the Poor

Discover a haunting literary classic of greed, obsession, and social decay - now available in English for the first time.

Set in 19th-century Catalonia, The Strangler of the Poor (L'Escanyapobres) tells the chilling story of Olaguer, a mysterious muleteer turned miser, who claws his way to power through ruthless usury and quiet malice. As his wealth grows, so too does the hatred of the village he exploits - and the dark nickname they give him: The Strangler of the Poor or L'Escanyapobres.

But greed has its own price. Amid the crumbling farms, the rise of the railroad, and the decline of rural life, Olaguer's obsession isolates him, twists him, and leads to an unforgettable, ironic reckoning.

This first-ever English translation of Narcís Oller's 1884 masterpiece brings to life one of the most important novels of Catalan literature, a darkly ironic critique of ambition and avarice in the face of social change. Perfect for readers of Émile Zola, Honoré de Balzac, or Thomas Hardy.

Why You'll Love This Book:A gripping psychological portrait of a man consumed by greed

Vivid depictions of 19th-century Catalan village life on the brink of modernity

A literary classic praised for its social realism and moral depth

Perfect for fans of Gothic, historical, and literary fiction

Includes new translation notes and retains Oller's sharp, ironic tone