What are the key characteristics of Gothic fiction in literary terms?

Characters, setting, and plot are key. Characters drive the story forward. The setting provides the backdrop. And the plot is what happens. For example, in a horror story, the characters might be a group of teenagers, the setting could be an abandoned asylum, and the plot would involve them being in danger there.

The key characteristics often include a dark and mysterious atmosphere. There are usually old, spooky settings like abandoned mansions or fog - covered graveyards. The detective in this type of fiction often has to deal with elements of the supernatural or the unexplained while solving the mystery.

The key characteristics of southern gothic fiction include a focus on the macabre. There are often disturbing or mysterious events. The setting, which is typically the South, plays a huge role. It can be dilapidated mansions or small, run - down towns. Also, the characters are complex, often struggling with their pasts and the oppressive social environment around them.

Well, in Victorian Gothic fiction, the settings play a huge role. They are typically dark and foreboding, creating an atmosphere of unease. The stories usually involve some sort of family secret or mystery. For example, in 'Jane Eyre', the mystery of Mr. Rochester's past and the strange happenings in Thornfield Hall are typical of this genre. Supernatural creatures add to the spookiness. And the female characters often face difficult situations and are sometimes in a state of oppression, which reflects the Victorian society to some extent.

Dark and gloomy settings are key. For example, old castles with hidden passages. There's often a sense of mystery and the unknown. Characters may be haunted by their pasts or some supernatural force. Also, elements like the supernatural, such as ghosts or vampires, are common.

Well, one key characteristic is the use of the Australian landscape as a menacing or eerie backdrop. The vast outback, for example, can be depicted as a place full of hidden dangers. Another is the presence of complex and often morally ambiguous characters. These characters might be haunted by their pasts or struggling with the harshness of the Australian environment. Also, themes of isolation are common, whether it's physical isolation in the bush or social isolation within a small community.

Gothic fiction has influenced modern literature by popularizing the use of dark and mysterious settings. Many modern horror and mystery novels still use old, spooky houses or abandoned asylums as settings. It also introduced the idea of complex, often morally ambiguous characters that are common in modern literature.

The key elements often include accurate historical settings. For example, a historical fiction set in the Victorian era should depict the social norms, architecture, and clothing of that time accurately. Another element is the use of historical events as a backdrop or plot device. Characters in historical fiction are also important; they can be real historical figures or fictional ones interacting with the historical context.

In literary terms, science fiction typically involves scientific speculation. Writers create worlds based on possible scientific advancements. It also has a sense of wonder. The ideas presented, such as alien life forms or new forms of energy, are meant to make readers think about the future and what could be. Plus, there's often a conflict between the new and the old, like traditional values against new technological ethics.

One key characteristic is complex characters. In literary fiction, characters are often multi - dimensional, with conflicting emotions and motives. Another is the exploration of deep themes like love, death, and the meaning of life. Also, the use of sophisticated language and unique narrative structures is common.