Horror in the Age of Steam: Tales of Terror in the Victorian Age of Transitions

During the Victorian era in England, rapid change brought about by economic progress, industrial innovation, scientific discovery, and social cohesiveness led to the redefinition of work, belief, and English identity. Elizabeth Gaskell, Emily Brontë, and Anne Brontë used horror stories to illustrate the psychological-traumatic terrors of this period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Change is a formidable force, and when it occurs rapidly within a short span of time, it can be destabilizing to any culture. England, under the guidance of Queen Victoria, experienced a transformative shift that had not been seen in generations. Entire sectors of the economy and the social fabric underwent a radical recalibration, driven by economic progress, industrial innovation, scientific discoveries, and social cohesion. As the British populace faced this unprecedented upheaval, they were compelled to reexamine their notions of work, belief, and identity.

In response to the anxiety and uncertainty brought about by change, the Victorians employed various methods to alleviate their distress. One such approach was the portrayal of horrifying representations of everyday reality in literature. Elizabeth Gaskell, Emily Brontë, and Anne Brontë, among others, turned to the horror genre to illustrate the psychological-traumatic terrors of an age of transition.

Elizabeth Gaskell, known for her novel "Cumbria," delved into the dark and unsettling world of rural life during the Industrial Revolution. Through her vivid descriptions and unsettling characters, Gaskell portrayed the psychological toll that rapid change had on individuals and communities. Her novel highlighted the fear, isolation, and desperation that people experienced as they navigated the unfamiliar terrain of industrialization.

Emily Brontë, with her iconic novel "Wuthering Heights," took the horror story to a new level. Set in the rugged Yorkshire moors, "Wuthering Heights" explores the destructive nature of love and obsession, as well as the psychological toll that societal pressures and expectations can have on individuals. Brontë's portrayal of the characters, particularly Heathcliff and Catherine, is haunting and chilling, reflecting the psychological turmoil that people faced during the period of transition.

Anne Brontë, in her novel "Jane Eyre," also explored the psychological effects of change. Set in the early 19th century, "Jane Eyre" follows the journey of a young woman who faces numerous challenges and obstacles as she seeks independence and self-discovery. Brontë's portrayal of Jane's inner struggles and emotional resilience is powerful and relatable, reflecting the psychological toll that societal expectations and gender roles can have on individuals.

These authors, through their horrifying representations of everyday reality, shed light on the psychological-traumatic terrors of an age of transition. Their works serve as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of change, and they continue to resonate with readers to this day.

In conclusion, change is a terrifying force, and when it occurs rapidly within a short span of time, it can be destabilizing to any culture. England, under the guidance of Queen Victoria, experienced a transformative shift that had not been seen in generations. The British populace faced the challenge of redefining their notions of work, belief, and identity as they navigated the unfamiliar terrain of economic progress, industrial innovation, scientific discoveries, and social cohesion. In response to the anxiety and uncertainty brought about by change, the Victorians employed various methods to alleviate their distress. One such approach was the portrayal of horrifying representations of everyday reality in literature. Elizabeth Gaskell, Emily Brontë, and Anne Brontë, among others, turned to the horror genre to illustrate the psychological-traumatic terrors of an age of transition. Through their vivid descriptions and unsettling characters, these authors shed light on the psychological-traumatic terrors of an age of transition and continue to resonate with readers to this day.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 156 x 236 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367858582