Gothic Literature
In gothic novels, the protagonists often face this type of inner conflict, torn between their desires and their sense of morality, contributing to a sense of dread and tragic inevitability.
What is the struggle between good and evil?
This type of novel deals with the formative years of the main character, and in particular, with the character's psychological development and moral education.
What is a bildungsroman?
Returning from foreign wars, this “worthy knight… no less esteemed for Christian virtues than for deeds of chivalry” rides home to England after 30 years abroad.
Who is Sir Philip Harclay?
As a young boy, Victor Frankenstein is captivated by the works of this historical figure, whose writings inspire him to pursue the study of alchemy, despite its outdated scientific theories.
Who is Paracelsus?
This author was just 18 years old when she began writing her most famous novel, Frankenstein.
Who was Mary Shelley?
Gothic literature frequently features this type of element, such as ghosts, vampires, or unexplainable phenomena, which blur the line between reality and the otherworldly.
What is the supernatural?
This is the wild, wooded expanse that Emily first surveys from the castle window.
What is the Apennine forest?
After Lord Arthur Lovel’s reported death in Wales, this kinsman takes the title, later selling the ancestral castle to Baron Fitz‑Owen.
Who is Sir Walter Lovel?
Victor’s obsession with science begins after reading about the “secrets of heaven and earth.” This philosopher's work, which he discovers in his father’s library, particularly fuels his ambition to unlock the mysteries of life.
Who is Cornelius Agrippa?
This author of Mysteries of Udolpho also wrote a novel published after her death that added to the mystique surrounding her reclusive life.
Who was Ann Radcliffe?
This element of nature is frequently used in gothic literature to set an ominous or eerie atmosphere, often depicted as an intense, unpredictable force.
What is stormy weather or a tempest?
The name of the person whose mysterious letter Emily discovers hidden in her chamber.
Who is Monsieur St. Aubert?
Produce elderly servants as witnesses to prove this two‑part claim before his family estates are restored.
What are Sir Philip Harclay's identity and rightful ownership of the Harclay estates?
Victor's parents had hoped for a different life for him, but ultimately supported his decision to attend university. His father was particularly concerned with his well-being and even discouraged him from pursuing this pursuit at a young age, as it was seen as dangerous and impractical.
What is alchemy?
This 18th-century novelist, and author of The Old English Baron, sought to blend the supernatural with realism, criticizing Walpole’s excesses while still embracing Gothic themes.
Gothic literature often portrays nature as an uncontrollable force, emphasizing the insignificance of humans in the face of this overwhelming element.
What is the sublime in nature?
The specific demand Montoni makes that forces Emily to choose between obedience and her aunt’s displeasure.
What is signing away Madame Montoni’s estates?
Sir Philip reflects that his friend may have sought refuge in a religious life, perhaps retreating to this type of institution, symbolizing his disillusionment with worldly affairs.
What is a monastery?
Victor Frankenstein’s interest in science is sparked by reading the works of this person, who is known for their theories on electricity and the “secrets of nature.”
Who is Luigi Galvani?
This author pioneered the modern detective story, was a master of psychological horror, and penned “The Fall of the House of Usher.”
Who was Edgar Allan Poe?
Gothic literature emerged in the late 18th century as a reaction to the rationalism of the Enlightenment. This movement’s ideals helped give birth to the gothic genre.
What is Romanticism?
Radcliffe highlights this virtue through Emily’s steadfast resistance to Montoni’s pressure over her aunt’s estate, suggesting that inner strength can protect one from external evil.
What is moral fortitude?
The two virtues Sir Philip resolves to practice in response to contemplating the silence surrounding his old friend, summing up a key moral theme with the lament, “This world has nothing for a wise man to depend upon.”
What are gratitude and charity?
Victor's path toward creating life is set in motion by the discovery of this natural phenomenon, which ignites his curiosity about life and death, and motivates him to seek ways of transcending mortality.
What is the process of decay and decomposition in nature?
This 18th-century writer not only penned what’s considered the first Gothic novel but also claimed the story came to him in a dream, inspiring an entire literary genre.
Who was Horace Walpole?