Gothic and Romantic Writing

Element of the Gothic Novel Setting in a castle or other dark abandoned place. Often there are trap doors, secret rooms, and hidden staircases. An atmosphere of mystery and suspense is evident. Fear is often enhanced by the unknown. An ancient prophecy is connected to the story and is unkown or confusing. Element of the Gothic Novel

Elements of a Gothic Novel Characters may have disturbing dreams or visions. Elements of the supernatural or other unexplained events come to life. Emotion is high with the characters exhibiting sorrow, surprise, anger and terror. Characters also suffer from impending doom. Emotional speeches are frequent. Elements of a Gothic Novel

Elements of a Gothic Novel Women are in distress. This may be featured as fainting, screaming or sobbing. Women may be threatened by a male character. Use of metaphors to show dark images or relationships. This can be rain, darkness or a chill in the air. Elements of a Gothic Novel

Modern Gothic Works Scooby Doo The Shining by Stephen King The Phantom of the Opera Interview with the Vampire by Ann Rice Shutter Island Modern Gothic Works

Powerful love. Sudden emotions may create life or death commitment. Uncertainty or reciprocation of love. Unreturned love Tension between true love and family. Lovers parted by an obstacle. Love threatens the virtuous character. Rival love or attention where more than one person may try to win the heart of an individual Elements of Romance

Poe the Gothic Romantic Poe’s writing is full of symbols. “The Pit and the Pendulum” begins in media res or in the middle of the story. Poe the Gothic Romantic

The Pit and the Pendulum The story takes place during the Spanish Inquisition. For more about this, see page 282. The Pit and the Pendulum

A pendulum

Poe’s voice Poe uses sophisticated sentence structures and vocabulary. As you read, make note of sentences patterns and vocabulary words you like. Locate 3 sentences. Locate 5 vocabulary words and define those words. Poe’s voice