The Evolution of the Gothic Novel: A Qualitative Perspective

Abstract

The Gothic novel became a well-liked genre of literature among the English-educated Indian aristocracy as the British Empire's influence grew in India. Typically dealing with themes of lunacy, death, and dread, the Gothic novel also frequently incorporates melodrama, horror, and supernatural aspects. In a period of political and social upheaval and as they wrestled with issues of identity, agency, and cultural dominance, these topics struck a chord with Indian readers. Indian writers began experimenting with the Gothic form, employing local folklore, myths, and stories in both Indian and English. They exposed the evil and unfairness of British authority by using the Gothic genre, and they utilized it to affirm their own cultural identities. The Gothic novel's influence may still be observed in India today in a variety of literary genres, from magical realism to postcolonial writing to horror and speculative fiction. The Gothic is still a strong and important literary movement that continues to influence Indian writers' conceptions of the outside world.