Writing a Research Paper Final on The idea of the monster/supernatural has evolved significantly throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year.
Introduction
Throughout the history of literature, the concept of the monster and the supernatural has fascinated and intrigued readers. From early myths and folklore to modern-day horror novels and films, the idea of beings that exist beyond the realm of human understanding has captured our imagination. In this research paper, we will explore how the idea of the monster and the supernatural has evolved over time, examining its portrayal in various time periods and works we have studied this year.
Early Mythology and Folklore
In ancient mythology and folklore, monsters and supernatural beings were often portrayed as fearsome creatures that embodied various aspects of the human psyche. From the Greek Gorgons to the Norse Jotnar, these beings represented humanity's internal fears and desires, serving as symbols of our deepest, darkest selves. In works such as Homer's "The Odyssey" and the Norse Eddas, these monsters were often defeated by heroic figures who embodied the virtues of courage, strength, and cunning.
Gothic Literature
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Gothic genre emerged as a popular form of literature that explored themes of the supernatural and the monstrous. Authors such as Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe created iconic works that blurred the lines between the natural and the supernatural, creating a sense of unease and terror in their readers. In Shelley's "Frankenstein" and Poe's "The Tell-Tale Heart," the monsters were not external beings, but manifestations of the characters' own inner demons, reflecting the anxieties and fears of the time period.
Modern Horror
In the 20th and 21st centuries, the concept of the monster and the supernatural has continued to evolve, taking on new forms and meanings in popular culture. Authors such as Stephen King and Guillermo del Toro have redefined the genre, exploring themes of psychological horror, body horror, and the uncanny. In works such as King's "IT" and del Toro's "Pan's Labyrinth," the monsters are not just physical beings, but metaphors for societal ills, personal traumas, and existential fears.
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 folklore to modern horror novels and films, the concept of beings that exist beyond human understanding continues to captivate and terrify us. As we continue to explore the ways in which these creatures are portrayed in literature, we gain a deeper understanding of our own fears and desires, and the ways in which they shape our perception of the world around us.