Geography of Horror: Spaces, Hauntings and the American Imagination

This book explores the role of space and place in the American horror genre, using human geography theories to analyze narratives from the nineteenth century to the present. It offers a unique insight into the trans-disciplinary spatial reading of the genre.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 194 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book is a thorough exploration of the space/place-based experience within the context of the American horror genre, spanning from its inception in the nineteenth century American Romanticism to its flourishing in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Through a series of narratives, this study delves into the crucial role of space and place as essential elements for effective expression of horror. The analysis employs diverse theoretical frameworks and concepts from human geography, a field that, while part of the broader discipline of geography, primarily focuses on the presence and activities of humans. By bridging these theoretical readings with the ever-evolving American horror genre, this book provides a distinctive perspective into the academically under-explored trans-disciplinary spatial analysis of the genre.

The nineteenth century American Romanticism marked the beginning of a profound transformation in the horror genre, as writers began to explore the darker corners of human existence and the supernatural. This period saw the emergence of iconic horror characters such as Count Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Phantom of the Opera, who continue to captivate audiences to this day.

In the twentieth century, horror continued to evolve and expand, with new subgenres such as slasher films, psychological horror, and supernatural horror emerging. These subgenres sought to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in horror storytelling, often exploring themes of violence, trauma, and the supernatural in innovative and disturbing ways.

The twenty-first century has seen the horror genre continue to evolve and adapt to new technologies and cultural trends. With the rise of social media and the internet, horror has become more accessible and interactive, with fans able to engage with the genre in new and exciting ways. This has led to the emergence of new subgenres such as found footage horror, horror podcasts, and virtual reality horror, which have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in horror storytelling.

One of the key themes in horror literature is the exploration of space and place. Horror writers often use the setting of a particular location or environment to create a sense of dread and tension, as well as to explore the darker aspects of human nature. For example, the setting of a remote cabin in the woods can be used to create a sense of isolation and vulnerability, while the setting of a city can be used to explore the themes of urban decay and social isolation.

Another important theme in horror literature is the exploration of the supernatural. Horror writers often use the supernatural to create a sense of fear and wonder, as well as to explore the boundaries of human understanding and the nature of reality. For example, the presence of a ghost or a demon can be used to create a sense of terror and confusion, while the presence of a magical or mystical force can be used to explore the themes of power and control.

Horror literature also often explores the themes of violence and trauma. Horror stories often depict characters who are subjected to horrific acts of violence, such as murder, rape, or torture. These acts are used to create a sense of horror and tension, as well as to explore the psychological effects of trauma on individuals.

In conclusion, the American horror genre has a rich and complex history that spans from its inception in the nineteenth century to its present-day manifestations. This genre has been shaped by a variety of factors, including cultural trends, technological advancements, and social issues. Through a comprehensive reading of a space/place-based experience, this book offers a unique insight into the academically unexplored trans-disciplinary spatially based reading of the genre. By exploring the role of space and place as key elements for successful articulation of horror, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of horror literature and culture.

Weight: 273g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030993276
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022