Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

Gothic literature is a genre of fiction characterized by an atmosphere of mystery and terror, often set in castles or monasteries. It emerged during the 18th-century Romantic period, with a heyday in the 1790s. Early examples include The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole and The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe.123

Key elements of Gothic literature include:
* Settings: Medieval buildings, castles, monasteries, with features like subterranean passages and hidden panels.12
* Atmosphere: Mystery, terror, horror, and wonder.123
* Themes: Often explore the supernatural, madness, superstition, and revenge.23

Landmark works like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Bram Stoker's Dracula are also considered Gothic, introducing existential themes. The genre has influenced later works, including Southern Gothic literature and elements in science fiction.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.