How does the idea of the monster / supernatural evolve throughout the time periods and works we’ve studied this year
Use the checklist to evaluate your draft:
• The introduction provides a strong opening and includes the thesis statement.
• The body closely follows points listed in the outline.
• Sources are referenced or quoted.
• Counterarguments are presented and refuted, if applicable.
• Appropriate transitions are used.
• The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes findings.
• Tone is consistent throughout the paper.
Introduction:
Throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year, the concept of the monster or supernatural has evolved significantly. From ancient myths and legends to modern horror stories, the portrayal of monsters and the supernatural has changed to reflect the fears and anxieties of each society. This paper will explore how the idea of the monster has evolved over time, comparing and contrasting various works and analyzing the cultural significance of these changes.
Body:
In ancient myths and legends, monsters were often depicted as physical beings with supernatural powers. For example, the Greek myth of Medusa portrays her as a terrifying creature with snakes for hair and the power to turn people into stone with a single glance. In contrast, the monsters of more modern works, such as Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, are often portrayed as more complex and morally ambiguous beings. The monster in Frankenstein is created by Victor Frankenstein himself, and is a reflection of the dark side of human nature and the dangers of playing god.
As society's fears and anxieties have evolved, so too has the portrayal of monsters in literature and media. In contemporary works such as Stephen King's IT, monsters are often portrayed as shape-shifting beings that prey on the fears and vulnerabilities of their victims. These monsters are not just physical threats, but also psychological ones, reflecting the more nuanced understanding of fear and trauma in modern society.
Counterarguments:
Some may argue that the portrayal of monsters has not evolved significantly over time, and that they have always been used as a metaphor for the unknown and the uncontrollable. While it is true that monsters have always served as a symbol of our deepest fears and anxieties, the way in which they are portrayed and the themes they explore have changed over time to reflect the changing concerns of society.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the idea of the monster and the supernatural has evolved significantly throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year. From ancient myths and legends to modern horror stories, the portrayal of monsters has shifted to reflect the fears and anxieties of each society. By analyzing these changes, we can gain a deeper understanding of how society's fears and anxieties have evolved over time, and how these changes are reflected in the literature and media of each era.