Subject
Supernatural in literature Books
Best books
Dorothy Scarborough
The Supernatural in Modern English Fiction
"The Supernatural in Modern English Fiction" by Dorothy Scarborough is a scholarly work exploring the theme of the supernatural in English literature, particularly focusing on the Gothic tradition, written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the evolution of supernatural elements across various literary forms, emphasizing their role in shaping reader experiences and reflecting societal beliefs about the unknown. Scarborough aims to highlight the continuity of supernaturalism from the Gothic romance to contemporary literature, illustrating how this genre persists in capturing human fascination. The opening of the work presents a comprehensive preface in which the author discusses the complexities of tackling the topic due to the vast amount of related literature, evident in her extensive bibliography. Scarborough reflects on the enduring presence of the supernatural in both classical and modern writing, drawing connections to human psychology and cultural trends. She sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which are expected to delve deeper into specific Gothic themes, the rise of modern ghost stories, and the interplay of supernatural elements in various literary contexts throughout English fiction.
Edith Birkhead
The Tale of Terror: A Study of the Gothic Romance
"The Tale of Terror: A Study of the Gothic Romance" by Edith Birkhead is a critical examination of the Gothic romance genre, likely written in the early 20th century. The work traces the evolution of supernatural fiction in English literature, focusing on the historical and thematic developments from the rise of Gothic fiction in the late 18th century through various notable authors and works, including the American adaptations by Hawthorne and Poe. The opening of the study outlines the deep-rooted history of terror in storytelling, beginning with ancient myths and moving through various literary forms up to the emergence of Gothic fiction. Birkhead discusses the significance of fear and supernatural elements, highlighting works from the likes of Horace Walpole and Mrs. Radcliffe, setting the stage for a broader analysis of how the Gothic genre evolved over centuries. The introduction creates an awareness of how integral the theme of terror has been in both oral tradition and written literature, setting up a nuanced exploration of the genre's influence and its enduring appeal.
Frank Callcott
The supernatural in early Spanish literature, studied in the works of the court of Alfonso X, el Sabio
"The Supernatural in Early Spanish Literature" by Frank Callcott is a scholarly study that explores the beliefs and superstitions related to the supernatural as reflected in the works of Alfonso X, El Sabio, written in the early 20th century. The book aims to delve into the attitudes of the Spanish people during the medieval period towards supernatural phenomena, offering insights into a rich cultural and literary heritage. The beginning of the text outlines the author's intent to analyze how supernatural beliefs are represented in literature from the court of Alfonso X, explaining that the works of this monarch serve as a key to understanding the broader context of early Spanish culture. It describes Alfonso's court as a vibrant intellectual hub that integrated various cultural influences, and sets the stage for a more in-depth exploration of how these elements manifest in the narratives, particularly focusing on miracles associated with the Virgin Mary and their significance to the people of that time. The introductory sections hint at a complex interplay of faith, folklore, and the natural world that invites readers to consider the historical context of supernatural beliefs in medieval Spain.
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