In this paper, a look will be taken at the history of Gothic narratives as a genre and its development in American literature. The main question of this treatise will be what sets Gothic literature apart from other genres and why has it been so successful until today. Specifically, the situation of American Gothic stories as one of the most important and most influential literary movements will be considered. After exploring how Gothic literature emerged during the late 18th century, a description of its development until the late 19th century will follow. A more elaborate depiction of how Gothic established itself in the new world will be given by stating the front runners of American fiction and their unique narrative techniques.
The key features and elements of Gothic literature will be listed afterwards accompanied by a detailed description of its most important concepts. To emphasize how important Gothic literature was for American fiction and how influential it still is today, the example of American author Edgar Allen Poe will illustrate the special features of Gothic literature development in America. For doing so we will take a closer look at the person of Edgar Allen Poe, his history and involvement in creating short stories and poetry. Afterwards, his influence on Gothic as a genre will be portrayed and to elaborate in more detail how his personal style of writing Gothic tales is a milestone in American literature, a deconstruction of his story “The Fall of the Houseof Usher” will follow. There key elements and concepts of his literary style will be discussed and will show how his twist of Gothic features result in him being one of the front runners of American fiction.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Genre of Gothic Literature and its History
- Gothic Literature in America
- Key Features and Elements
- A Case Study: Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849)
- Gothic Literature and Poe's Work
- Deconstructing Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher"
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the history and development of Gothic literature, specifically within the context of American literature. It aims to identify the defining characteristics of Gothic literature that distinguish it from other genres and account for its enduring popularity. The focus is on the significant role of American Gothic as a major literary movement.
- The historical development of Gothic literature from its 18th-century origins.
- Key features and elements that define Gothic literature.
- The emergence and unique characteristics of American Gothic literature.
- Edgar Allan Poe's contribution to and influence on American Gothic.
- Analysis of Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher" as a representative example.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the paper, outlining its central aim: to investigate the evolution of Gothic literature and its prominent position in American literature. It poses the question of what distinguishes Gothic literature and contributes to its lasting appeal. The chapter previews the exploration of Gothic literature's emergence in the late 18th century, its progression into the late 19th century, and its establishment in American fiction. It highlights the unique narrative techniques employed by key American authors, and it promises a detailed examination of the genre's essential features and concepts. The chapter concludes by stating that the analysis of Edgar Allan Poe's work will serve as a case study to illuminate the significance and enduring influence of Gothic literature on American fiction.
The Genre of Gothic Literature and its History: This chapter delves into the origins and evolution of Gothic literature. It traces the genre's roots back to post-medieval and post-Renaissance England, highlighting Horace Walpole's "The Castle of Otranto" (1764) as a seminal work. The chapter explores early influences, including Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and Defoe's "An Essay on the History and Reality of Apparitions," noting the incorporation of supernatural elements. It discusses the genre's growing popularity throughout Europe and America, emphasizing the impact of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" (1818). The chapter also examines the thematic concerns of Gothic literature, such as the exploration of the sublime and beautiful in contrast to terror, death, and evil, and how these elements contribute to a "Gothic Vision" that challenges conventional logic and reason. Finally, it highlights the genre's adaptability, encompassing various forms, including novels, short stories, plays, and even modern media. The chapter establishes the genre's lasting cultural impact.
Gothic Literature in America: This chapter focuses on the unique development of Gothic literature in America. While acknowledging the genre's European origins, it emphasizes the significant influence and popularity of American Gothic fiction. The chapter discusses the challenges faced by early American authors in establishing a distinct Gothic tradition, given the perceived lack of suitable historical and geographical settings. It then introduces Charles Brockden Brown, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe as pioneers who defied these assumptions. The chapter identifies key elements that contributed to the success of American Gothic, such as the frontier, the Puritan legacy, race, and political utopianism. It explores how American Gothic authors adapted and reinterpreted elements of European Gothic, incorporating indigenous features and unique narrative techniques to create a distinctly American style characterized by a blend of familiar tropes and innovative creativity.
Keywords
American Gothic literature, Edgar Allan Poe, Gothic fiction, literary history, genre characteristics, supernatural, horror, American literature, narrative techniques, cultural influence.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview of American Gothic Literature
What is the main topic of this language preview?
This preview provides a structured overview of American Gothic literature, tracing its historical development, key characteristics, and influence, with a particular focus on Edgar Allan Poe's contribution.
What topics are covered in the table of contents?
The table of contents includes an introduction, a section on the genre of Gothic literature and its history (including a subsection on American Gothic), a case study on Edgar Allan Poe, a deconstruction of Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher," and a conclusion.
What are the main objectives and key themes explored?
The preview aims to examine the historical development of Gothic literature, identify its defining characteristics, and analyze the significant role of American Gothic as a major literary movement. Key themes include the historical development of Gothic literature, its key features and elements, the emergence of American Gothic, Poe's influence on the genre, and an analysis of "The Fall of the House of Usher."
What are the chapter summaries?
The introduction sets the stage for the paper, outlining its aim to investigate the evolution of Gothic literature in American literature. The chapter on the genre of Gothic literature and its history traces the genre's origins and evolution, highlighting key works and thematic concerns. The chapter on American Gothic focuses on its unique development, emphasizing the contributions of authors like Charles Brockden Brown, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe.
Who is the main author discussed in the case study?
The case study focuses on Edgar Allan Poe and his significant contribution to and influence on American Gothic literature.
Which specific work by Edgar Allan Poe is analyzed?
The preview includes a detailed analysis of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher" as a representative example of American Gothic.
What are the key words associated with this language preview?
Key words include American Gothic literature, Edgar Allan Poe, Gothic fiction, literary history, genre characteristics, supernatural, horror, American literature, narrative techniques, and cultural influence.
What type of academic work is this preview for?
This language preview is intended for academic use, supporting the analysis of themes in a structured and professional manner.
What is the intended audience for this preview?
The intended audience is likely academics or students studying American literature and the Gothic genre.
- Quote paper
- Dominik Kruczinski (Author), 2021, The American Gothic, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1224586
