A Halloween Journey Through Gothic Literature: Part II - The Role of Gothic Environments

In the second part of our series, we will discuss the importance and the meaning of environment in Gothic literary works. Though it is not uncommon to use setting as a symbolic element in other genres, there is no doubt that in gothic literature, it is a character by itself. Therefore when we analyze gothic works, it can be seen that the descriptions of the setting are very relevant to the storyline and the themes.

But why do most gothic authors use this element to convey their message and how do they do it? In this article, we will take an engaging journey through the mysterious world of Gothic literature, focusing particularly on the significance of settings in this genre. Gothic novels are well known for their gloomy and dark settings, which frequently play crucial roles in the story. These environments are crucial for creating a sense of mystery, fear, and danger. We will discuss the important role of settings in Gothic literature and how they impact the story.

History of Gothic Settings

The settings and environments in Gothic literature are portrayed as significant characters, adding depth to the stories with their dark and mysterious presence.  Both British and American Gothic writers have effectively constructed their stories, using settings and landscapes to convey certain themes. Before delving into the role of environments in gothic novels, it is essential to understand what makes a place or building ''gothic''.

The term Gothic was first derived from the Goths, a Germanic tribe, and their distinctive architectural style during the medieval period. Later on, this term came to have a different meaning, a meaning that represents a genre known for its dark and mysterious settings and exploration of the human psyche.

Role of Settings in Gothic Literature

Gothic settings have a crucial role in the general atmosphere, themes, and storylines of Gothic works of literature because these environments draw readers into the strange and eerie worlds that define the genre; they are not just background. 

One role of settings in gothic works is to create an atmosphere to evoke a particular mood. Gothic settings are intended to evoke certain emotions. They often feature gloomy surroundings that increase the sense of hopelessness and fear. These ambiances build the scene and establish the overall tone of the narrative.

Gothic literature includes rich symbolic settings that often carry deeper meanings. For example, elements such as as decaying buildings, overgrown landscapes, and hidden passages, often carry more profound meanings like repressed feelings and supernatural themes. They also reflect the emotional states of the human characters. For instance, the inner turmoil of its residents may be reflected in a dark mansion. So it can be said that the environment acts as a physical representation of the characters' inner lives.

Edgar Allan Poe: Unveiling the Depths of the Human Psyche

Edgar Allan Poe, often regarded as the master of gothic and psychological horror, is a prime example of how Gothic settings can be used as a mirror of the complexities of the human mind. In his short story "The Fall of the House of Usher" the decaying mansion and its desolate surroundings reflect the decay of the Usher family's bloodline and sanity. It mirrors the moral and psychological conflicts of the characters, exploring themes of isolation, repression, and the consequences of the past.

Emily Brontë: The Bleak and Haunting Moors

Emily Brontë's "Wuthering Heights" transports us to the desolate moors of Yorkshire. The novel's main setting, Wuthering Heights, is a dark and oppressive mansion that mirrors the complex relationships of the characters who reside there. The wild and unforgiving landscape of the moors emphasizes the intensity of the emotions and conflicts, reflecting the turbulent nature of Heathcliff's and Catherine's love. The contrast between Wuthering Heights and nearby Thrushcross Grange increases the sense of isolation and alienation, which is common in Gothic fiction, as the setting reflects the character's inner struggle and societal issues.

Bram Stoker: The Haunting Castles of Transylvania

In Bram Stoker's "Dracula," the setting of Count Dracula's Transylvanian castle causes fear and anxiety. The castle is distinguished by its remote position, secret corridors, and creepy atmosphere. The oppressive nature of the castle symbolizes the fear of the unknown and the terrifying power of the supernatural. Jonathan Harker's experiences within the castle reflect his sense of imprisonment and vulnerability as a prisoner of the vampire's control. The Gothic setting increases the sense of dread in the novel.

Examples from Gothic Poetry: Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti

Her most famous and enduring work, "Goblin Market," is a narrative poem that delves into Gothic and fantastical themes. The poem is set in a mysterious and eerie forest where two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, encounter goblin-like creatures who tempt them with exotic fruits. The forest setting is integral to the narrative, creating an eerie and foreboding atmosphere. It is described as "deep," "cool," and "dark," emphasizing its mysterious nature. This imagery immediately sets the tone for the narrative and creates an atmosphere of both allure and danger. The story's use of the forest emphasizes Gothic themes such as temptation, transformation, and the relationship between the human and the supernatural, which makes it a classic example of Gothic poetry.

Conclusion

To conclude, it is obvious that settings are not only passive backdrops but are living, breathing entities that contribute to the narrative's atmosphere. From the dreadful mansions of Edgar Allan Poe to the desolate moors of Emily Brontë, Gothic environments serve as mirrors of the human psyche, embodying the characters' inner conflicts and societal concerns.

As we continue our Halloween journey through literature, we will further explore the women archetypes in Gothic literature in our next episode. Stay tuned for more revelations from the world of Gothic literature in our upcoming explorations. Until then stay spooky!

Work Cited

Shumail, Eman. The Power of Place: Examining the Role of Setting in Gothic Literature, 2023. https://medium.com/@EmanShumail/the-power-of-place-examining-the-role-of-setting-in-gothic-literature-915545d25d2e

Majlingová, Veronika. The Use of Space in Gothic Fiction, Masaryk University Faculty of Arts, 2011. https://is.muni.cz/th/xdt5b/The_Use_of_Space_in_Gothic_Fiction.pdf

Packer, Lona Mosk. “Symbol and Reality in Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market.” PMLA, vol. 73, no. 4, 1958, pp. 375–85. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/460256. Accessed 31 Oct. 2023.

Al-Mahdawi, Abeer. Setting in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher": A Supernatural Actor., 2019.