Gothic ElementsThe Castle of Otranto by Walpole and a...

When a person thinks about gothic today, they might think of a sparkly vampire or a hunky Frankenstein in popularized films. This has led to parodies upon these adaptations of the gothic. This relationship between traditional gothic characters and parodies is not a new subject but a very interesting dynamic. I would like to discuss how one scene from the typical gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole, and a scene from Jane Austen’s parody of the gothic novel in Northanger Abbey contrast in many different ways to illustrate gothic tropes as well as Austen’s perspective view on the subject of the gothic through the use of, diction, setting, character and tone. The diction in each novel is very different for both. In The†¦show more content†¦What Austen is doing with the diction in the novel is illustrating a warm mood for the novel. It is the opposite of the dark and gloomy scene from Walpole. It suggests that Austen’s piece is poking fun at the way gothic novels use words that create a negative environment for readers. By creating a comforting environment for readers, Austen is conveying that the atmosphere of dwellings in England at this time even is normal; it’s not something like what is depicted in The Castle of Otranto. This leads to the setting of these novels. In Walpole, the novel’s setting is described by, â€Å"It could only be, she thought, some domestic belonging to the castle†¦she was near the mouth of the subterraneous cavern† (Walpole 28). Some parts of this novel are taking place in a castle. This is another common gothic trope; the setting being in a castle. The castle is usually old and decrepit. As depicted by the excerpt, the castle usually has secret passageways and trap doors. The character, Isabella, in this scene appears to be in a cave, which is consistent with the trope of the gothic castle because usually in gothic novels, to add more of a haunting feel to the novel , some of the events will take place around the castle in a cave, just like this one. This type of setting leaves readers anxious and portrays a threatening atmosphere which is consistent with traditional gothic conventions. Austen’s setting creates a differentShow MoreRelatedEssay on Gothic Fiction2923 Words   |  12 PagesGothic fiction is erotic at the root according to Punter. From your reading of Frankenstein and Dracula how far would you agree with Punters interpretation. Gothic fiction is erotic at the root according to Punter. From your reading of Frankenstein and Dracula how far would you agree with Punters interpretation. In your essay you should consider: - · The authors portrayal of eroticism and sexuality (in all its forms) through characters. - · Relevant social/cultural concerns