ENGL 150P

The American Gothic

Explores American works written in the Gothic mode. In novels, captivity narratives, short stories, and poetry, we will investigate representations of terrifying, uncanny, and supernatural phenomena. As we trace the development of the Gothic mode in American literature, we will examine how narratives and poetic depictions of horror rehearse our individual and cultural fears about sexuality, race, violation, rebellion, madness, and death, and we will inquire into that thrill of macabre pleasure that attends the exploration of the darker side of life.

Units: 3.0