The supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that are beyond or outside the laws of nature, often invoking elements such as ghosts, deities, or otherworldly forces. This concept is central to various forms of storytelling and literature, where it serves to explore themes of fear, morality, and the human experience in ways that transcend everyday reality. In narratives, the supernatural often heightens emotional tension, challenges characters' beliefs, and creates a sense of mystery that captivates audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The supernatural often embodies the unknown or inexplicable, challenging characters to confront their fears and beliefs.
2. In Dark Romanticism, the supernatural serves to highlight the darker aspects of human nature and existence, illustrating themes of despair and morality.
3. Gothic literature frequently uses supernatural elements to create an atmosphere of dread, emphasizing isolation and psychological torment.
4. Common supernatural beings in literature include ghosts, demons, witches, and mythical creatures, each serving symbolic roles within narratives.
5. The tension between reality and the supernatural allows authors to explore philosophical questions about existence, fate, and the boundaries of human understanding.

Review Questions

• How does the use of supernatural elements enhance character development in Gothic literature?
  • Supernatural elements serve as catalysts for character development in Gothic literature by forcing characters to confront their deepest fears and moral dilemmas. These encounters with the unknown can reveal vulnerabilities, strengths, or inner conflicts that might not surface in ordinary circumstances. As characters navigate their interactions with supernatural forces, they often undergo significant transformations, which adds depth to their journey and ultimately drives the narrative forward.
• Analyze how the theme of isolation is connected to the supernatural in Dark Romanticism.
  • In Dark Romanticism, isolation is often intertwined with the supernatural to create a sense of foreboding and vulnerability. Characters may find themselves alone in eerie settings or haunted by unseen forces that heighten their sense of despair. This isolation can lead to a deeper exploration of their psyche, revealing how external supernatural elements reflect their internal struggles. Thus, the supernatural becomes a manifestation of their isolation, intensifying feelings of hopelessness and contributing to the overarching theme of darkness within the genre.
• Evaluate the impact of supernatural elements on societal beliefs and fears as reflected in Gothic literature.
  • Supernatural elements in Gothic literature reflect societal beliefs and fears by challenging rationality and exposing underlying anxieties about death, morality, and the unknown. These narratives often resonate with contemporary issues—such as social upheaval or existential dread—by using supernatural occurrences as metaphors for collective fears. As readers engage with these stories, they are prompted to confront their own beliefs about life beyond death or what lurks in shadows of human experience. Ultimately, the supernatural becomes a lens through which societal tensions are examined and critiqued.

Related terms

Gothic Elements: Features commonly found in Gothic literature, including dark settings, supernatural occurrences, and an exploration of human psychology and emotions.

Macabre: A style that emphasizes the gruesome, eerie, or unsettling aspects of death and decay, often associated with horror and the supernatural.

Suspense: A literary device that creates tension and anticipation in a story, often used alongside supernatural elements to keep readers engaged.