Supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena that are beyond the laws of nature and cannot be explained by scientific understanding, often involving entities or forces that are not part of the physical world. This concept is central to Gothic literature, where it creates an atmosphere of mystery and terror, tapping into the human psyche's fears of the unknown and the beyond. It also serves to highlight cultural anxieties and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The supernatural element in Gothic literature often manifests through ghosts, monsters, and otherworldly occurrences that challenge rational thought.
2. This concept reflects societal fears during the time periods when Gothic literature flourished, particularly concerning morality, identity, and the consequences of transgression.
3. American Gothic writers frequently used supernatural elements to explore psychological depth, illustrating characters' internal struggles and fears.
4. The interplay between reality and the supernatural in Gothic literature often leaves readers questioning what is real, enhancing suspense and intrigue.
5. Supernatural elements serve not only to entertain but also to provoke thought about existential themes such as death, fate, and the afterlife.

Review Questions

• How does the use of supernatural elements enhance the emotional impact of Gothic literature?
  • Supernatural elements enhance the emotional impact of Gothic literature by creating a sense of dread and suspense that grips readers' imaginations. They evoke deep-seated fears about the unknown and challenge characters' perceptions of reality. This manipulation of fear allows writers to explore complex themes related to morality and existence while making readers feel more connected to characters' internal struggles.
• Discuss how cultural anxieties during a specific period influenced the portrayal of supernatural elements in American Gothic literature.
  • Cultural anxieties during the 19th century influenced American Gothic literature significantly. Concerns over individualism, industrialization, and changing social norms manifested in stories filled with supernatural occurrences. Writers used these elements to reflect societal fears about losing control over one's destiny or encountering malevolent forces that threatened personal identity. The supernatural thus became a vehicle for critiquing contemporary values while examining deeper philosophical questions.
• Evaluate the role of the supernatural in shaping character development within American Gothic narratives and its broader implications on human psychology.
  • In American Gothic narratives, the supernatural plays a crucial role in shaping character development by revealing their innermost fears, desires, and moral conflicts. Characters often confront external supernatural forces that mirror their internal struggles, allowing readers to witness their psychological breakdowns or transformations. This duality enhances our understanding of human nature, illustrating how fear can drive individuals to irrationality or profound introspection. Such portrayals encourage us to reflect on our own psychological boundaries between reality and imagination.

Related terms

Gothic Fiction: A genre of literature that combines elements of horror, romance, and the supernatural, often set in dark, eerie environments.

Haunting: The presence of ghosts or spirits in a place, often linked to unfinished business or unresolved issues from the past.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, often intersecting with supernatural themes in literature.