Lesson 1: Introduction to Horror
The lesson briefly explains the history of horror literature. This is followed by an introduction to the authors that are to be discussed in subsequent lessons. A further section focuses on various personal views of the genre in society.
Lesson Introduction
Lesson objectives:
Learn about horror literature, where it originated and the various perspectives associated with its art.
Familiarize yourself with the authors of horror literature to be discussed in this course. Seven authors will be discussed. A short introduction is given to each author and his or her work.
Authors that are discussed are Edgar Allan Poe, Bram Stoker, H.P. Lovecraft, Gaston Leroux, Clive Barker, Poppy Z. Brite and Tanith Lee. These authors have been chosen for themes in their work that relate specifically to themes in the lessons. They also represent various perspectives and evolutions in the genre, which are discussed in subsequent lessons. As this is only a four week course, there is not nearly enough space to discuss all the important authors in this genre. However, there will be a recommended reading list at the end of this course.
Recommended resources for this lesson include The Return of the Repressed: Gothic Horror from Castle of Otranto to Alien by Valdine Clemens and The Supernatural in Literature by H.P. Lovecraft. From the work by Clemens specific reference is made to the introduction of the work entitled “Gothic Nightmares”. From Lovecraft, the introduction and second section of his essay, entitled "The Dawn of the Horror Tale", are referred to. To prepare for this lesson, please read the above sections.
Please note: Recommended resources are not mandatory
Think about this question: where, in your opinion, did horror literature first start? Where is the official beginning of the first horror novel? From what you have learned in Lovecraft’s essay, is this the kind of work that would appeal to horror readers today? Why or why not? These questions are dealt with more fully in Section 2.
Before starting Section 2, you might also want to think about your own reasons for enjoying the genre and indeed for taking this course. Think about what you have read, and apply it to yourself. Why do you like reading horror literature? What is it that inspired you to sign up for this course? What is it that makes your hands itch when you see the newest horror novel, complete with bloody skull on the cover? We deal with these questions later on in the course, when we talk about the effects of horror. Right now, let's look at the origins and the reasons of existence for horror.
Horror literature is probably the most intense and enigmatic genre that there is. With this lesson and subsequent lessons you will learn what it is that gives the genre its popularity. Why torture yourself with images of blood and gore? The answer is simple: it's a psychological need.
