Gothic Literature Research Paper

Gothic Literature

During the 18th and 19th century, America expanded their writing in a new genre called Gothic Literature. This new way of writing allows authors to portray a darker side in their style of writing. Before, this style was offered the only literature written was based more on romance. The choice of evil in any type of writing was extremely sparse and many feel it was deemed insane. Many authors now have the opportunity to grow and make their styles of writing more known.

“The term Gothic fiction refers to a style of writing that is characterized by elements of fear, horror, death, and gloom, as well as romantic elements, such as nature, individuality, and very high emotion. These emotions can include fear and suspense”

Authors today still write Gothic stories, but they are not as common as they were:

Gothic culture as one knows it today is something that is closely linked to death, human sexuality and the supernatural. In fact, gothic art took its roots in the medieval Europe but found a breather during the 19th and 20th centuries when gothic literature became popular. So popular indeed that modern literature looked down upon gothic literature for it was considered too “street”.

Many readers continue to read these types of stories since they keep them on their toes. Also many invoke the reader with feelings of danger each character undergoes. Each novel has the ability to captivate readers and persuade them to want to read more. The audience continues to read these writings for the sense of unknown and mystery the characters face. One of the most known authors, of this genre, would be Edgar Allen Poe. He has composed an abundant amount of compositions, including The Raven, The Minister's Black Veil, and The Fall of the House of Usher. Poe’s most read and studied piece of writing would be The Raven. The repetition of certain words throughout the poem emphasises the meaning of the word or phrase. “Quoth the Raven Nevermore” (Line 85) is an ideal example. The word “Nevermore” is bona fide significant in the poem, The Raven. Poe tries to state that the Raven will never leave his home as well as his wife, Lenore, never coming