Gothic Novel in Ireland, c. 1760-1829

The gothic novel in Ireland, c. 1760 – 1829, challenges traditional views of the 'rise of the gothic novel' and Irish Romantic literature by re-integrating overlooked works into the history of the literary gothic. Its quantitative and qualitative analysis of neglected Irish texts produces a new map of gothic literary production, positioning Irish works and authors at the center of a new critical paradigm.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 248 pages
\n Publication date: 02 November 2021
\n Publisher: Manchester University Press
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The gothic novel in Ireland, spanning from c. 1760 to 1829, presents a captivating narrative of the evolution of gothic literature during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. This study challenges prevailing scholarly perspectives that either attribute the emergence of the gothic novel solely to Britain or dismiss it altogether in favor of Irish Romantic literature. Through a rigorous quantitative and qualitative analysis of previously overlooked Irish texts, this study successfully reintegrates a significant body of works into the history of the literary gothic as it unfolded across Ireland, Britain, and Europe between 1760 and 1829. By employing a dual approach, this study generates a novel formal, generic, and ideological map of gothic literary production during this period, effectively placing Irish works and authors at the forefront of a new critical paradigm for understanding both Irish Romantic and gothic literary production.

The gothic genre emerged in Ireland during the late eighteenth century, coinciding with the rise of Romanticism in Britain. This literary movement was characterized by its fascination with the supernatural, horror, and the past, particularly the medieval period. Irish writers, influenced by the gothic traditions of Britain and Europe, began to explore these themes in their works, often set in remote and isolated locations such as castles or graveyards.

One of the most notable Irish gothic novels is "The Castle of Otranto" by Horace Walpole, published in 1764. This work is considered a classic of the genre and is renowned for its intricate plot, suspenseful atmosphere, and memorable characters. Other notable Irish gothic authors include Ann Radcliffe, author of "The Mysteries of Udolpho" (1794), and Charles Maturin, author of "Melmoth the Wanderer" (1820).

These novels not only contributed to the development of gothic literature but also had a significant impact on Irish culture and society. They helped to shape the national identity by promoting a sense of Irishness and heritage, and they also explored the darker aspects of Irish history and society, such as the treatment of women and the influence of religion.

In conclusion, the gothic novel in Ireland, c. 1760 – 1829, offers a rich and fascinating account of the development of gothic literature in late-eighteenth and early-nineteenth century Ireland. By challenging traditional scholarly views and reintegrating overlooked works into the history of the literary gothic, this study provides a new perspective on Irish Romantic and gothic literary production. Through its quantitative and qualitative analysis, it generates a novel formal, generic, and ideological map of gothic literary production in this period, placing Irish works and authors at the center of a new critical paradigm for understanding both Irish Romantic and gothic literary production.

\n Weight: 302g\n
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526160478\n \n