The Coherence of Gothic Conventions

The Coherence of Gothic Conventions argues that the Gothic in English literature has been marked by a distinctive set of ambitions about relations of meaning, linking the most characteristic thematic conventions to the genres radical claims for representation. It will be of interest to students of literature, cultural studies, and psychology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Coherence of Gothic Conventions, first published in 1986, is a groundbreaking work that delves into the rich and complex world of Gothic literature in English. Authored by the esteemed scholar Elizabeth Sedgwick, this seminal text makes a compelling argument that the Gothic genre in English literature has been characterized by a distinct set of ambitions concerning the relations of meaning.

Sedgwick's analysis is comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of classic Gothic authors, as well as the works of De Quincey and the Brontës. Through meticulous readings of these texts, she skillfully establishes a strong and coherent link between the most distinctive thematic conventions of the Gothic and the radical claims for representation that the genre made.

In the introduction, Sedgwick elucidates the profound connection between the linguistic or epistemological argument of the Gothic and its historical emergence as a response to the social and cultural norms of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. She argues that the Gothic genre emerged as a means of challenging the dominant gender and sexual norms of the time, particularly the notion of women as passive and inferior to men.

Furthermore, Sedgwick explores the ways in which Gothic literature perpetuated and even intensified fears and stereotypes about homosexuality, particularly in the context of male homosexuality. She argues that the Gothic genre often depicted male homosexuality as a threat to societal stability and moral values, contributing to the marginalization and persecution of homosexual individuals during this period.

The Coherence of Gothic Conventions is a valuable resource for students of literature, cultural studies, and psychology. It offers a deep and insightful exploration of the Gothic genre, its historical context, and its enduring impact on literature and society. Sedgwick's scholarship is rigorous and nuanced, providing a wealth of insights and interpretations that will engage and inspire readers.

In conclusion, The Coherence of Gothic Conventions is a landmark work that has significantly contributed to our understanding of Gothic literature and its significance in the broader context of English literature and cultural history. Elizabeth Sedgwick's meticulous research and insightful analysis make this text a must-read for anyone interested in the Gothic genre or in the broader study of gender, sexuality, and representation in literature.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 159 x 242 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032386485