Mystery and Fear - The soul of Gothic literature and governs the entire process of storytelling. Something that is beyond our understanding leads to the development of this and a typical Gothic atmosphere is created with the help of this element., Omens and Curses - They are the concepts quite commonly used in Gothic novels. A tragic event is preceded by them. In these stories, they include them to make life miserable for the characters. , Atmosphere and Setting - Often associated with old medieval castles or building, hidden passages, trap doors, secret rooms, dark forests and stormy weather. The atmosphere is always dark, gloomy, decaying and kind of terryfying. , Supernatural and Paranormal Activity - Dramatic, amazing events occur, such as ghosts or giants walking, or inanimate objects coming to life. In some novels, these elements have a rational explanation but the implication always suggests something not of this world. , Romance - This themes are used in Gothic novels and are lined by passion, sorrow and tragedy. The mysterious events also form an important part of this genre of literature., Villain - They are often autocratic male characters in Gothic novels. These are people in authoritative positions, most often kings. They are cunning and shifty in their behavior and they may exhibit a deceptive behavior of being initially sympathetic however, turning evil later on., Emotional Distress - This runs high in Gothic literature. Characters are often passionate and strong-willed and women are often curious and have a tendency to swoon. The events emphasize a hightened sense of drama. , Nightmares - in Gothic literature they are portrayed for the purpose of adding elements such as terror and horror. They are used to depict the fear experienced by characters in these novel. Terrifying events are presented through their dreams., Damsel in Distress - As an appeal to the pathos and sympathy of the reader, the female characters often face events that leave them fainting, terrified, screaming, and/or sobbing. A lonely, pensive, and oppressed heroine is often the central figure of the novel, so her sufferings are even more pronounced and the focus of attention. The women suffer all the more because they are often abandoned, left alone and have no protector at times. ,

Gothic Literature Match Up

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