Now that you know about some of the common stylistic devices, conventions and tropes of horror, it's time to reflect upon your own engagement with the genre.
Consider any texts that you have studied in school, or some texts that you enjoyed in your own time. These texts could be literature, movies, TV shows or even video games.
Title:
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Explanation:
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In the space below, write the title of your chosen text. Next, discuss and explain how the text demonstrates the conventions and tropes of horror.
Title: The Shining (film adaptation)
Explanation:
The film adaptation of "The Shining," directed by Stanley Kubrick, is an excellent example of a text that demonstrates the conventions and tropes of horror.
One convention that is prominently shown in "The Shining" is the isolated setting. The film takes place in the remote and desolate Overlook Hotel, cut off from society due to its winter closure. This isolation creates a sense of vulnerability for the characters, as they are trapped and unable to easily escape the terrors that unfold within the hotel.
Another convention present in the film is the use of suspense and tension-building techniques. Kubrick masterfully employs slow and deliberate camera movements, eerie lighting, and unsettling sound design to create an atmosphere of unease. The audience is constantly on edge, anticipating the next frightful moment.
Additionally, "The Shining" heavily relies on psychological horror, where the characters' sanity and perception of reality are distorted. The unraveling of Jack Torrance's mental state as he succumbs to his inner demons aligns with this trope. The use of hallucinations, surreal imagery, and a non-linear narrative further adds to the psychological horror element.
Furthermore, the film employs the trope of the haunted or malevolent location. The Overlook Hotel itself becomes a character, with its dark history and supernatural occurrences. The hotel's eerie hallways, the iconic blood-filled elevator, and the enigmatic Room 237 all contribute to the sense that the location itself is malevolent and holds a dark presence.
Lastly, "The Shining" incorporates the trope of the unreliable narrator. Throughout the film, the audience is uncertain about what is real and what is a product of the characters' distorted perceptions. This ambiguity adds to the suspense and keeps the audience guessing about the true nature of the horrors they are witnessing.
In conclusion, "The Shining" demonstrates various conventions and tropes of horror, including isolated settings, suspenseful techniques, psychological horror, haunted locations, and unreliable narration. These elements contribute to the unsettling and terrifying experience that is characteristic of the horror genre.
Title: "The Shining" (novel by Stephen King, also adapted into a film directed by Stanley Kubrick)
Explanation:
"The Shining" is an exemplary text that demonstrates several conventions and tropes of horror.
Firstly, one convention often found in horror is the isolated and eerie setting, which plays a significant role in creating a sense of unease. In "The Shining," the story takes place in the secluded Overlook Hotel during the winter, where the main characters are cut off from civilization due to heavy snowfall. This isolation intensifies the feeling of foreboding and vulnerability, as there is no immediate escape from the haunting events that unfold.
The concept of supernatural elements is also prevalent in horror, and "The Shining" incorporates it skillfully. The presence of ghosts and paranormal phenomena in the hotel, particularly the ghostly encounters experienced by the protagonist, Danny Torrance, heightens the fear and suspense throughout the narrative. These supernatural occurrences, such as the infamous scene of the twin girls in the hotel hallway, contribute to the unsettling atmosphere and amplify the horror aspect.
Moreover, the psychological aspect of horror is a frequently explored trope in the genre and is also evident in "The Shining." The gradual deterioration of the protagonist, Jack Torrance, and his descent into madness is a key element of the story. The psychological manipulation, visions, and distorted reality experienced by Jack emphasize the theme of isolation and the terrifying impact it can have on the human psyche.
Another commonly used trope in horror is the threat posed by the unknown or unseen. In "The Shining," the exact nature and motives of the supernatural forces present in the hotel remain ambiguous, leaving the reader or viewer unsettled and unable to fully comprehend or anticipate the impending dangers. This uncertainty adds to the sense of fear and mystery that is integral to the horror genre.
Overall, "The Shining" encompasses various conventions and tropes of horror, including the isolated setting, supernatural elements, psychological horror, and the fear of the unknown. Its effective utilization of these elements contributes to the enduring success and reputation of the text within the genre.
Title: "The Shining" by Stephen King
Explanation:
"The Shining" is a classic horror novel written by Stephen King. It also has a film adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick. The text successfully demonstrates several conventions and tropes of horror.
1. Isolation: One of the main conventions of horror is isolating the characters, making them feel vulnerable and helpless. In "The Shining," the story takes place at the Overlook Hotel, which is located high up in the mountains and cut off from civilization during the offseason. The isolation creates a sense of dread and amplifies the characters' fears.
2. Supernatural elements: The presence of supernatural elements is another common trope in horror. In "The Shining," the hotel is haunted by past events and spirits, which have a psychological effect on the characters. The protagonist, Jack Torrance, experiences supernatural visions and encounters with ghostly entities, adding to the sense of terror.
3. Psychological horror: Horror often delves into the deep fears and anxieties of the human mind. "The Shining" explores the psychological descent of Jack Torrance into madness. The constant isolation, disturbing visions, and sinister influence of the hotel slowly erode his sanity, creating a suspenseful and intense atmosphere.
4. Unsettling atmosphere: Horror often relies on creating an atmosphere that unsettles and unnerves the audience. "The Shining" does this through its chilling setting and atmospheric descriptions. The Overlook Hotel is depicted as eerie, with its empty corridors, maze-like layout, and dark history. These elements contribute to a palpable sense of unease throughout the story.
5. Tension and suspense: Horror thrives on building tension and suspense, keeping the audience on edge. "The Shining" masterfully creates tension through its slow pacing and gradual escalation of horrors. The reader or viewer is constantly anticipating what will happen next, making it a nerve-wracking experience.
Overall, "The Shining" demonstrates many of the conventions and tropes of horror, from isolation and supernatural elements to psychological horror and an unsettling atmosphere. It continues to be a popular and influential work in the genre.