Gothic Fiction and the Writing of Trauma, 1914-1934: The Ghosts of World War One

The book explores how ghosts are used in literature to reflect upon feelings of loss and trauma, drawing on examples from well-known and forgotten authors. It argues that the uncanny, familiar from a Gothic tradition, is used to reflect upon grief.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This captivating book delves into the profound exploration of the ghost-soldier's representation in literature spanning from 1914 to 1934. It serves as a poignant testament to the pervasive presence of trauma and the relentless quest to make sense of its bewildering effects. Andrew Smith takes us on a literary journey, examining a diverse array of short stories, novels, poems, and memoirs that ingeniously employ ghosts as a means to delve into the depths of human loss. By seamlessly intertwining these literary narratives with accounts of shell-shock, which perceive the damaged soldier as psychologically absent and thus spectral in nature, Smith establishes a profound connection between the literary context and the psychological aftermath of war.

Through his meticulous analysis, the author compellingly argues that literary and non-literary texts consistently resort to a form of the uncanny, drawing upon a rich Gothic tradition. This uncanny element serves as a powerful lens through which grief is reflected upon, offering a unique perspective on the human condition. Smith's research is enriched by his inclusion of fiction by renowned authors like M. R. James, E. F. Benson, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Dennis Wheatley, alongside largely forgotten contributions to The Strand and other periodical publications such as The Occult Review.

This book is a testament to the enduring power of literature to capture the essence of human experiences, particularly those touched by the horrors of war. It sheds light on the complex interplay between trauma, imagination, and the search for meaning, providing a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the ghost-soldier's enduring legacy.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474443432