1. Classic Elements of American Gothic Literature

2. Setting Large old houses, usually family estates (America didn’t have the castles that England did) Something scary (unexplainable events, deaths, legends) happened at the house in the past, or happens throughout the story

3. Plot Seeks to discover secrets in a supernatural, mysterious environment – atmosphere of suspense Supernatural events – ghosts, doors that open by themselves, etc. Women who are frightened or confused, wandering around and/or suffering and dying from some inexplicable illness

4. Stylistic Choices Foreshadowing, omens, dreams, visions usually contribute to the mysterious atmosphere of the story Words used like “dark,” “foreboding,” “mysterious,” “ghostly”

5. Psychology Intense emotions - terror, insanity, a sense of impending doom, obsessive love