Demonic possession

Definition

Demonic possession refers to the belief that an evil spirit or demon has taken control of a person's body and mind, often leading to a loss of autonomy and abnormal behaviors. This phenomenon is a prominent theme in various literary works, especially within the Gothic novel genre, where it symbolizes the struggle between good and evil, the uncanny, and the exploration of humanity's darkest fears.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Demonic possession has been depicted in various forms throughout history, often reflecting cultural fears and societal anxieties regarding morality and the supernatural.
2. In Gothic literature, demonic possession often serves as a metaphor for internal struggles, representing characters' battles against their own darker impulses or societal constraints.
3. The fear of demonic possession can symbolize broader themes such as loss of control and the duality of human nature, illustrating the tension between civilized behavior and primal instincts.
4. Demonic possession narratives frequently feature elements such as supernatural phenomena, psychological horror, and the role of religion in combating evil.
5. Famous literary examples include 'The Exorcist' by William Peter Blatty and Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' where possession reflects deeper themes of identity and existential dread.

Review Questions

• How does demonic possession serve as a symbol in Gothic literature?
  • In Gothic literature, demonic possession symbolizes the struggle between good and evil within individuals. It reflects inner conflicts and societal fears, portraying characters grappling with their darker impulses. This theme often emphasizes the fragility of human morality and the potential for chaos lurking beneath a civilized facade.
• Discuss the significance of exorcism in the context of demonic possession within Gothic narratives.
  • Exorcism plays a critical role in Gothic narratives involving demonic possession by representing the ultimate battle between good and evil. It illustrates the struggle to reclaim one's body and soul from malevolent forces. The ritual not only serves as a dramatic plot device but also highlights themes of faith, redemption, and the lengths to which individuals will go to confront their fears.
• Evaluate how the portrayal of demonic possession reflects societal anxieties about mental illness and moral decay in Gothic literature.
  • The portrayal of demonic possession in Gothic literature often mirrors societal anxieties about mental illness and moral decay. By depicting characters who succumb to uncontrollable urges or become vessels for malevolent entities, these narratives provoke discussions about the thin line between sanity and madness. This reflection can be viewed as a critique of social norms, questioning what constitutes 'normal' behavior and how easily one can fall into chaos in a repressive society.

Related terms

Exorcism: A religious or spiritual practice aimed at expelling demons or evil spirits from a person believed to be possessed.

The Uncanny: A psychological concept that refers to something familiar yet foreign, evoking feelings of unease or discomfort, often associated with horror literature.

Madness: A state of severe mental illness or irrational behavior, often intertwined with themes of demonic possession in literature to explore the fragility of the human mind.