Original PromptCreate a two day lesson that is 45 minutes each day, Introduce the mentor text: from How To tell You Are Reading a Gothic Novel – In Pictures.
o
Review the background information on Gothic literature with students.
o
Explain that the Gothic literary genre began in 1764 with Horace Walpole’s novel The Castle of Otranto.
o
Discuss how the term Gothic originated from the Visigoths, a Germanic people associated with the fall of the Roman Empire and often viewed as barbaric and wild.
o
Emphasize that...
This resource introduces the Gothic tradition in literature, exploring its historical origins, key themes, and defining characteristics. It engages students in reflective writing and collaborative discussions on why horror, mystery, and the supernatural intrigue readers. The document also delves into the influence of early Gothic novels, particularly Horace Walpole's 'The Castle of Otranto,' and outlines common Gothic elements such as atmospheric settings, supernatural presences, and the use of archaic language. Additionally, it encourages critical thinking about how atmospheric conditions and supernatural figures contribute to the narrative and thematic depth of Gothic stories. Through various activities, the resource aims to reinforce understanding of Gothic literature and its modern implications in cinema and literature.