Ottessa Moshfegh's Medieval Novel Lapvona Reflects Broader Neo-Medieval Cultural Trend

Published in 2022, Ottessa Moshfegh's novel Lapvona marks a shift from her usual contemporary narratives, immersing readers in a medieval fiefdom filled with grotesque themes such as incest and violence, centering on a disabled boy named Marek. This shift mirrors a cultural revival of medieval aesthetics across music, fashion, and art, evident in performances by Caroline Polachek and Paris fashion shows. The literary scene is increasingly captivated by female mystics and historical contexts, drawing connections to Moshfegh's previous works. Critics have likened Lapvona to Shrek (2001) and Robert Eggers' The Northman (2022). This medieval trend raises concerns about techno-feudalism and ecological crises, with potential appropriation by extremist factions.