Ghosts and the Gothic - (International Gothic) by Ruth Heholt & Joanne Ella Parsons (Hardcover)

About the Book

This collection examines ghostly presences (and absences) in both classic and lesser-known Gothic texts from the beginning of the genre to the present in a global context.

Book Synopsis

Ghosts have long been connected with the Gothic, but until now there has not been a book dedicated to the subject. This collection examines ghostly presences (and absences) in both classic and lesser-known Gothic texts from the beginning of the genre to the present in a global context. Arguing that the undead, in the form of ghosts, are intrinsic to the Gothic mode, essays in the collection question the place of manifested spirits. The Gothic has always been 'political', and essays in this collection examine some of the most relevant issues facing us today: from the destruction of the natural environment, to questions of 'freedom', to gender politics.

From the Back Cover

Ghosts have long been connected with the Gothic, but until now there has not been a comprehensive book-length study of their significance to the genre.

This collection examines ghostly presences (and absences) in both classic and lesser-known Gothic texts, spanning the origins of the genre to the present day, and examining them through a global lens. The collection argues that the undead, in the form of ghosts, are intrinsic to the Gothic mode, raising questions about the place of manifested spirits. The Gothic has consistently engaged with the 'political', and the essays in this collection address some of the most relevant issues facing us today - from the destruction of the natural environment and questions of 'freedom', to gender politics.

The return of the undead, ghostly presence will inevitably uncover hidden truths and uncomfortable secrets. Unruly, and impossible to repress, the ghost in the Gothic embodies the genre's inherently subversive nature.

About the Author

Ruth Heholt is Professor of Literature and Culture at Falmouth University
Joanne Ella Parsons is Senior Lecturer in English and Writing at Falmouth University