The man from the title, Markheim, is at the local antique store to buy a Christmas present for his beloved. The shop's owner offers him to buy a mirror, but Markheim is disgusted by the idea. Instead he wants to be shown another gift. When the pawnbroker turns to retrieve another piece, he gets stabbed in the back by his client. Why is Markheim so disgusted by the seller's proposal? What is the reason for the ruthless murder? Why does paranoia start to overwhelm Markheim? Who is the supernatural visitant with whom he begins a conversation? This classic short story of mystery, bad decisions, and battle between good and evil takes place in London in the late 19th century.