Supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that exist beyond the laws of nature and human understanding, often associated with the divine, magical, or otherworldly. This concept evokes mystery and intrigue, frequently appearing in literature as a means to explore themes of fear, morality, and the human experience. Its presence can intensify emotions and challenge the characters' perceptions of reality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walpole's 'The Castle of Otranto' is considered one of the first Gothic novels, introducing supernatural elements like ghosts and mysterious events to create an atmosphere of terror.
2. The use of the supernatural in literature allows authors to push boundaries, exploring complex themes like guilt, fear of the unknown, and existential questions about life and death.
3. Coleridge's poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' employs supernatural occurrences to illustrate moral lessons and humanity's connection to nature.
4. Supernatural elements often serve as catalysts for character development and plot progression, driving characters to confront their fears or grapple with moral dilemmas.
5. The fascination with the supernatural during this period reflects broader cultural anxieties about science, reason, and the limits of human understanding in an increasingly rational world.

Review Questions

• How does Walpole's use of supernatural elements in 'The Castle of Otranto' contribute to the overall atmosphere of the novel?
  • Walpole's incorporation of supernatural elements, such as ghosts and ominous occurrences, creates a sense of dread and mystery throughout 'The Castle of Otranto'. These elements not only heighten tension but also reflect the emotional struggles of the characters as they confront fears that transcend reality. This combination establishes a Gothic atmosphere that draws readers into a world where the unknown reigns supreme.
• Analyze how Coleridge uses supernatural themes in 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' to convey deeper moral messages.
  • In 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner', Coleridge utilizes supernatural occurrences like ghostly apparitions and mystical forces to illustrate profound moral lessons about respect for nature and interconnectedness. The mariner's experiences with supernatural beings challenge him to confront his guilt and seek redemption. This interplay between the natural and supernatural serves to emphasize the consequences of human actions on both a personal and universal scale.
• Evaluate the impact of supernatural themes on the literary landscape during the late 17th to mid-19th century, considering both Walpole's influence and Coleridge's contributions.
  • The integration of supernatural themes significantly shaped the literary landscape from the late 17th to mid-19th century by challenging conventional notions of reality and morality. Walpole's pioneering use of Gothic elements in 'The Castle of Otranto' set a precedent for future authors to explore fear and mystery through supernatural lenses. Similarly, Coleridge's work in 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' illustrated how these themes could be employed to convey complex emotional and philosophical ideas. Together, they helped establish a rich tradition that allowed writers to probe deeper into human experience while reflecting societal anxieties about reason, faith, and the unknown.

Related terms

Gothic literature: A genre of fiction characterized by elements of horror, the supernatural, and dark romanticism, often set in decaying castles or haunted landscapes.

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the appreciation of nature, often incorporating supernatural elements as a means to express deeper truths.

Mythology: A collection of traditional stories and legends that explain natural phenomena, human behavior, and cultural beliefs through the influence of gods and supernatural beings.