Gothic Literature and Frankenstein

According to http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art27161.asp Many believe that true horror literature originated with the “gothic” literature genre in the mid-to-late eighteenth century. Gothic literature was believed to be unique commentary of the particular tremulous and dark period which spawned it through such works as Ann Radcliffe’s “The Mysteries of Udolpho” and Mary Shelly’s cross-genre epic “Frankenstein.” Scholars are fascinated by Shelly’s “Frankenstein,” in that it provided intriguing characterizations and a darker story than had previously been displayed by other gothic lit writers. “Frankenstein” could be looked upon as quintessential gothic literature. Then again, the themes of Shelly’s novel certainly tug at the “horror” strings: isolation, life after death, chaotic ambition and the consequences of playing god can equally be looked upon as an in-depth look into the horrors of a dark humanity.


-Irma Zvirkic