When the Dead Rise - Narratives of the Revenant, from the Middle Ages to the Present Day

The revenant motif, which dates back over a millennium and was influenced by Christian eschatology, has been a popular theme in modern popular culture. This book explores why revenant stories and imagery took such a hold in the Middle Ages and why they continue to fascinate us today, tracing the long arc of revenant tales from antiquity to modernity and examining their uncanny similarities and cultural anxieties.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2021
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The revenant motif, a rich tapestry of medieval themes and motifs that continue to resonate in modern popular culture, has been observed as a recent phenomenon. However, it is a storytelling tradition that traces its roots back more than a millennium. This captivating narrative emerged from the intersection of Christian eschatology, gaining momentum in medieval ecclesiastical chronicles, such as those penned by Caesarius of Heisterbach. It then permeated imaginative literature, notably in John Lydgate's renowned Dance of Death, and art.

Yet, the enduring fascination with revenant stories and imagery during the Middle Ages begs an explanation. Why did these narratives captivate the hearts and minds of people during that time, and why has that fascination persisted into the present day? This book aims to unravel the mysteries behind these revenant narratives, exploring how modern horror is haunted by the past and delving into the motif of the risen dead as a focal point of cultural anxiety and literary endeavor.

The author embarks on a historical journey, tracing the long arc of revenant tales from antiquity through the Reformation and into modernity. Along the way, they examine the uncanny similarities that unite these narratives across different eras, shedding light on the rich tapestry of narrative, theme, motif, supernatural belief, and eschatological fears and preoccupations that have shaped them.

The revenant motif serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the complex interplay between religion, mortality, and the human condition. It explores the boundaries between life and death, the power of resurrection, and the moral dilemmas that arise when the dead return to the living. These stories often challenge traditional notions of faith, morality, and the nature of the soul, prompting readers and viewers to contemplate the deeper implications of their existence.

Furthermore, the revenant motif has had a significant impact on the development of horror literature and film. It has provided a rich source of inspiration for authors and filmmakers, who have reimagined and reinterpreted these ancient tales for contemporary audiences. The rise of the zombie genre, in particular, can be traced back to the fascination with revenant stories during the Middle Ages, as authors sought to explore the fears and anxieties associated with the undead and the societal disruptions that would result from their resurgence.

In conclusion, the revenant motif is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the rich cultural heritage of the Middle Ages. It continues to captivate audiences around the world, reminding us of the complexities of human nature, the supernatural, and the enduring fascination with the afterlife. Through its exploration of the revenant narrative, this book offers a valuable insight into the enduring legacy of medieval themes and motifs in modern popular culture.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781843845768