Gothic and Romantic Writing Setting in a castle

Gothic and Romantic Writing

�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

�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

�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

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

A pendulum

�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