The Radiant Boy of Corby Castle

The Radiant Boy is a type of ghost found in English and German folklore: a glowing child whose appearance foretells great success followed by a violent death. The most famous sighting occurred at Corby Castle in 1803.

The Witness

Reverend Henry Redhead Yorke was a prominent clergyman staying at Corby Castle as a guest. He was a rational man, skeptical of the supernatural. What he saw changed him.

The Apparition

In the night, Yorke was awakened by a brilliant light. A beautiful, glowing boy stood at the foot of his bed, regarding him silently. The figure faded as Yorke watched, leaving the room in darkness.

The Prophecy

According to tradition, anyone who sees a Radiant Boy will achieve great power and success, but will die a violent death. The apparition is not malevolent but rather a warning of fate.

The Fulfillment

Yorke went on to achieve prominence in the church. Years later, he was found dead under circumstances that were never fully explained, though violence was suspected.

Assessment

The Radiant Boy is one of the more unusual types of ghosts in English folklore. Whether genuine supernatural phenomenon or the projection of Yorke’s own ambitions and fears, the legend has persisted for two centuries.