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In this seminar we’ll investigate the development of Gothic fiction in Anglophone literature. We’ll compare and contrast historically and culturally specific literary styles and conventions as well as the key characteristics of different literary forms. Starting with Walpole’s The Castle of Otranto (1764), we’ll continue with some Victorian ghost stories and James' novella The Turn of the Screw (1898) through to du Maurier’s Rebecca (1938) and Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House (1959). Combined with theories on the functions of supernatural horror and the fantastic in literature, our close readings will provide participants with an overview of the origins, definitions and variants of Gothic narratives.
In preparation for the seminar, please acquire and read the following novels/novella:
- Horace Walpole, The Castle of Otranto
- Henry James, The Turn of the Screw
- Daphne du Maurier, Rebecca
- Shirley Jackson, The Haunting of Hill House
Further texts (short stories & essay excerpts) will be made available on the course's moodle platform. Registered students will receive access to moodle via email at the beginning of the semester. |
