My introduction to gothic literature story summary
Wilkie Collins' is an important figure who wrote numerous sensation novels including The Woman in White (1860) and The Moonstone (1868). The Sensation novel was a popular and controversial genre in Victorian Britain known for causing 'sensations' or reactions in their readers such as shock, fear, or excitement. Some of the important types of Gothic fiction include Gothic Romance, Gothic Horror and Modern Gothic. With the Gothic genre too, elements and tropes of other genres are highlighted, creating subgenres within the umbrella genre of Gothic fiction. A paranormal tale may feature elements of romance, or a fantastical story may be peppered with elements of mystery and thriller. Examples of Gothic SubgenresĪ fictional narrative is usually a blend of many genres. 1 - Bram Stoker's inspiration: Whitby Abbey in Yorkshire. Recurring themes are live burial, isolation and superstition, infused with Poe’s unique mastery of atmosphere and suspense.įig.
In the story, Prince Manfred is desperate for an heir to continue the family line. Fittingly, Walpole wrote it as the result of a vivid dream he had. The story contains phantoms, visions, a family curse, and secret passages. It is set during the Crusades in Italy in a medieval castle that is home to Prince Manfred of Otranto. Horace Walpole is largely credited with writing the first Gothic novel: The Castle of Otranto (1764). There may also be secret passages, underground labyrinths, and locked rooms that nobody may enter – or, if they do, they may never be heard of again.
Often, the castle, manor or estate seems to take a life of its own as it plays tricks with the minds of its inhabitants.Possible elements of Gothic novels (that you may have already come across!) include ghosts, mysterious aristocrats who can change into bats, paintings that come alive and invite you to step in, walking statues, shadows that have a will of their own, or objects that move by themselves.
The setting in the Gothic novel is of utmost importance, as it sets the atmosphere for the story. Gothic novels are often set in a decaying castle, mansion, or abbey, and contain mystery, suspense, terror, or something otherworldly that cannot be rationally explained. A Gothic novel can be characterised by its setting and content.