What do you mean by the Gothic?

Good question! The Gothic has, historically, meant all sorts of things - originally meaning just 'to do with the Goths' (a Germanic tribe), it has been associated with a style of pseudo-medieval architecture and, most importantly for us, a genre or mode of literature.

Gothic literature is characterised by horror and terror, medievalism, and transgression. This can mean transgression in terms of sexuality, gender, social class or norms, or even with nature itself impinging on society. This certainly isn't an exhaustive list, but these are some of the things that we mean when we talk about Gothic literature.

DH
Answered by Dominic H. English Literature tutor

4669 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I stucture an essay?


How does context effect the way in which we view literary works?


'Wommen desiren to have sovereynetee/ As wel over her husband as hir love' (‘The Wife of Bath’s Tale, lines 1038-39) Discuss the relationship between women and love in Chaucer's 'The Wife of Bath's Tale'


To what extent can Hamlet be considered a heroic character?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences