Lesson 8: Conclusion: Horror Effects
The lesson gives a summary and draws conclusions from previous lessons. This is followed by a description of the effects of horror literature as seen in subcultures and occultism. Finally the future of horror literature and its influences is considered.
Lesson Introduction
Lesson objectives
Consider the ideas we have discussed so far.
Discuss the effects of horror on modern society.
Consider the future of horror literature.
Recommended resources referred to are Clemens: Conclusion, and H.P. Lovecraft: the final section.
Please note: Books are recommended but not mandatory.
During these lessons both you and I have learned a lot about horror literature and the reasons why we love it. It is interesting to me that horror literature never evokes a neutral reaction. All the people I have ever spoken to about this react either with repulsion or delight when I tell them that I'm doing a D.Litt. in horror literature. Some just don't take it seriously and place it roughly in the same category as humor and science fiction. However, I tend to have the same attitude to them as Lovecraft does to those who would not read anything other than what makes perfect realistic sense: they just don't have an imagination and should not be taken seriously themselves. Perhaps that's just me and I shouldn't be taken seriously!
It is however undeniable that horror literature has evolved with leaps and bounds during the twentieth century. Look for example at the authors of horror during the beginning and during the end of the twentieth century. Stephen King is a widely acclaimed author and pays his mortgage with his writing money. H.P. Lovecraft on the other hand never had more than two sparse meals per day and died fairly young and in poverty. Horace Walpole, after the publication of The Castle of Otranto refused to admit any connection with the novel. Today both Lovecraft and Walpole are hailed as pioneers.
The effect on society of horror literature is also significant. After H.P. Lovecraft's fiction has received its revival during the 1970's, it spawned a wide variety of reactions. Subcultures and occultists both made his fiction their own and treated it as fact. There are those today who believe that Lovecraft in all seriousness meant his writing as a warning to human beings. In Section 2 this is discussed to greater depth.
In Section 3 we discuss the trends that horror literature might follow in the future.
Optional Project
Please read the conclusion to Clemens's work. How do you think horror literature affects us today, and what you think the future holds for the genre?
