The main focus of this paper lies on the depiction of serial killers in fictional works. Many fictional serial killers were inspired by real-life serial killers and therefore the lines between the realms of fiction and reality are quite often blurred. This is why the paper starts with addressing real-life serial killers. Their status as a popular culture phenomenon as well as their relation to fictional serial killers is to be examined. The topic then shifts to serial killer fiction and the role of the serial killer in serial killer fiction. In order for this paper to be not limited to theoretical reflections only, it ends with a brief examination and comparison of two at first glance very different fictional serial killers: Frankenstein’s monster and Dexter.
Table of contents
1. Introduction
2 Serial killers
2.1 Definition
2.2 Serial killers as popular culture phenomenon
3. Serial killer fiction
3.1 Serial killer fiction as a variation of detective fiction
3.2 The role of the serial killer in serial killer fiction
4 Comparing the depiction of the serial killer in Frankenstein and Dexter
4.1 Why comparing Frankenstein to Dexter?
4.2 Nature vs. nurture, or why do they kill?
4.3 Monster or genius?
4.4 Organized vs. disorganized, or how do they kill?
4.5 Conclusion: How do they compare?
5 Conclusion and outlook
Works Cited
Frequently Asked Questions
How does fiction blur the lines with real-life serial killers?
Many fictional serial killers are directly inspired by real-life cases. This creates a cultural phenomenon where public perception of real crimes is often shaped by fictional tropes and vice versa.
What is the difference between organized and disorganized killers?
In criminal profiling and fiction, organized killers plan their crimes meticulously and often lead normal social lives, while disorganized killers act impulsively and leave chaotic crime scenes.
Why compare Frankenstein’s monster to Dexter?
The comparison explores the evolution of the serial killer figure. It examines the "nature vs. nurture" debate—whether these characters are born "monsters" or created by their environment and trauma.
What role does serial killer fiction play in detective stories?
Serial killer fiction is often a variation of detective fiction where the focus shifts from a simple "whodunnit" to a psychological exploration of the killer’s mind and the investigator's obsession.
Is the serial killer portrayed as a genius or a monster?
Fictional depictions vary; some works emphasize the predatory, monstrous nature, while others (like Dexter or Hannibal Lecter) portray the killer as a high-functioning genius, complicating the audience's moral judgment.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Stephanie Eßer (Autor:in), 2013, The Depiction of Serial Killers in Fiction, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/230996
