The Gothic NovelThe Gothic Novel

Gothic Literature

originated in 18th century

is devoted to tales of horror, dark supernatural forces and romance.

Gothic Literature

derives name from barbaric Germanic tribe, the Goths.

both the literature and architecture are noted for “savage, unrestrained, majestic style.”

Gothic Architecture

Vaulting Arches- grasping for heavens… Dr. Frankenstein!

Gothic Architecture

spires reaching to the heavens

wild carvings depicting humanity in conflict with supernatural forces

Eight Gothic Motifs

The Doppelganger (Double)

A second self or alternate identity.

Represents opposing forces in human nature. Suggests humans have a dual nature

Forbidden Knowledge or Power

Hero attempts to control supernatural powers. Ambition leads to hero’s fall.

Dreams/Visions

reveal hidden truths of the unconscious mind

Dracula visits his victim as she sleeps

Haunted Castle/House

Reflects hero’s mysterious, troubled psychological character

Blood

symbolizes paradox of human condition. represents life/death, guilt/innocence

The vampire’s feast thwarted

Graveyards/Churches/Ruins

suggest human confrontation with infinite forces

Whitby Churchyard from Dracula

Madness

Reflects realities beyond rational comprehension.

Mad characters spit the truths that we wish to deny!

The madman compels passersby to listen

A n d . . .

The Literary Monster !

Fallen hero becomes a monster or confronts a monster who is his double

HERE’S WHERE IT GETS COOL!

Locating Monsters…

Monster(s)

Other Motifs:Other Motifs:

murder, innocence victimized by evil, murder, innocence victimized by evil, incest, sexual perversion, reversal of incest, sexual perversion, reversal of values, the Wanderer, the Outcast, values, the Wanderer, the Outcast, mistaken or secret identities, mistaken or secret identities, dichotomies (attraction/repulsion, dichotomies (attraction/repulsion, life/death, innocence/evil, life/death, innocence/evil, nobility/corruption, etc.); the nobility/corruption, etc.); the femme femme fatalefatale (“fatal woman” who leads men (“fatal woman” who leads men to their doom).to their doom).