Gothic Literature

1. Gothic Literature

2. Today’s Objectives • Identify and explain the major characteristics of Gothic Literature. • Synthesize knowledge of previous literary eras with new information about Gothic Literature.

3. Historical Context • The words Goth and Gothic describe the Germanic tribes that sacked Rome and ravaged the rest of Europe in the third, fourth, and fifth centuries. • By the 18th century in England, Gothic had become synonymous with the Middle Ages, a period which was in disfavor because it was perceived as chaotic, unenlightened, and superstitious.

4. Gothic Architecture (12th – 16th Century) • Gothic architecture used pointed arches and vaults, narrow spires, stained glass windows, intricate traceries, and varied details. • Its upward movement was meant to suggest heavenward aspiration. • “Gothic” came to describe a certain type of novel, so named because these novels seemed to always take place in Gothic-styled architecture – mainly castles, mansions, and Gothic style churches.

5. Washington Irving (1783 – 1859) • American author, essayist, and biographer, most known for his short stories: • “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” • “Rip Van Winkle” • Often regarded as the originator of the American short story • Many of his stories have supernatural elements and dark tones • Popularized the nickname “Gotham” for New York City

6. Gothic Conventions

7. Importance of Setting • The setting is greatly influential in Gothic novels. It not only evokes the atmosphere of horror and dread, but also portrays the deterioration of its world. • The decaying, ruined scenery implies that at one time, there was a thriving world. At one time, the abbey, castle, or landscape was something treasured and appreciated. Now, all that remains is the decaying shell of a once thriving setting.

8. Archetypal Characters • The Gothic Hero • Protagonist who is usually isolated, either voluntarily or involuntarily • Wise beyond his/her years • Burdened by secret guilt/sorrow • The Villain • Epitome of evil by his (usually a man) own fall from grace or some implicit malevolence • The Wanderer • Epitome of isolation as he/she wanders the earth in perpetual exile, usually a form of divine punishment

9. Basic Plot Elements • Action tends to take place at night, or at least in a claustrophobic, sunless environment • Ascent (up a mountain, high staircase, etc.) • Descent (into a dungeon, cave, labyrinth, etc.) or falling off a precipice; secret passages • The pursued maiden and the threat of rape or abduction • Physical decay, skulls, cemeteries, and other images of death; ghosts; revenge; family curse; blood and gore; torture; black magic; madness