Guide To Gothic Literature: 4 Must-Read Gothic Novels

Have you been thinking about diving into the shadows with gothic novels? Here’s all you need to know about about Gothic Literature:

What is Gothic Literature?

Gothic literature is a gloomy aesthetic revolving around themes of fear, death, and haunting. Gothic novels usually include supernatural elements, ominous settings, and often involve threats to young women. One of the key aspects of gothic fiction is isolated mansions or castles. Gothic architecture had a heavy influence on Gothic literature which was characterized by large glass sainted windows, pointed arches, and huge gargoyles that cast shadows and created an unsettling and mysterious atmosphere.

Here are a few of the most seminal works of gothic literature: 

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

“He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”

― Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights

Not placing this masterpiece at the top of the list would be a literary offense of the highest degree. Set on bleak Yorkshire moors, the novel begins when Mr. Lockwood, a new tenant, is forced to seek shelter for the night at Wuthering Heights, the residence of his landowner, Heathcliff. Driven by curiosity, he learns about Heathcliff’s past and everyone associated with him through his housekeeper.  He discovers that Heathcliff was adopted by the Earnshaw family when he was a homeless child. He embarks on a passionate romance with Catherine Earnshaw that wreaks havoc on everyone around them. Wuthering Heights is a tragic story about love, obsession, betrayal, revenge, and hatred.

Immerse yourself in Bronte’s world of madness filled with wild and stormy weather, gothic architecture, desolate moors, and isolated houses. With beautiful use of language, this novel is a must-read for those who enjoy complex and morally ambiguous characters.

Find Wuthering Heights here.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelly

“There is something at work in my soul, which I do not understand”

– Marry Shelly, Frankenstein

Written by Mary Shelley in the summer of 1816, the idea originated when Mary Shelley and her husband were neighbors of Lord Byron. The summer was marked by incessant rain that forced everyone to stay indoors. To pass the time, lord Byron came up with the idea that each of them should write a ghost story.

This novel follows the story of a scientist named Victor Frankenstein who, driven by curiosity and thirst for knowledge conducts a blasphemous science experiment. He gives life to a creature using reanimated body parts. The creature is sensitive and gentle but its grotesque appearance incites fear in people. Lonely and isolated from society, the monster becomes bitter and resentful and seeks to take revenge on his creator. The novel serves as a cautionary tale of meddling with things beyond our control and blurring the lines between life and death.

With abandoned castles, stormy nights, tombs, wild landscapes, and a foreboding atmosphere, Frankenstein is a compelling read. 

To read this novel for free, click here Frankenstein

Dracula by Bram Stoker

“Once again…welcome to my house. Come freely. Go safely; and leave something of the happiness you bring.”

― Bram Stoker, Dracula

Published in 1897, the novel unfolds the story of Jonathan Harker, a young solicitor traveling to Transylvania to meet his client, Count Dracula, for an overseas transaction. On his way, people are terrified when he enquires about his destination: Castle Dracula. He also encounters a pack of angry wolves which foreshadows the ominous events that will ensue. After some time, Jonathan realizes that Dracula may not be entirely human.

 Unlike the swoon-worthy vampires of the modern age, Dracula is a menacing sadist with sinister intentions to spread his curse all over England. The eerie vibes, chilly atmosphere, and intrigue make this novel an engaging read.

To read for free, click Dracula.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”

― Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre was published under the pen name Currer Bell in 1847. The novel stunned the readers with its unflinching portrayal of a woman’s quest for equality and independence. The novel begins with Jane’s cruel upbringing in her aunt’s home and a strict boarding school. Jane moves to Thornfield Hall as a governess where she encounters Mr. Edward Rochester, her mysterious employer. She soon discovers a secret that threatens to destroy her newfound happiness. Jane’s journey throughout the novel is gut-wrenching. The prose is descriptive and poignant with a brooding atmosphere.

Read Jane Eyre here.

Are you new to reading classic literature? check out How To Read Classic Literature in 6 easy steps. For more book recommendations, consider reading 5 Short Classics To Read This Weekend.

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