American Gothic Literature

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, through the medium of sleep, the authors highlight important issues of the age, personal psychology, and the state of the psyche of the nation. The author points out that, through his textual illustration, Brown was highlighting a common fear of time brought about by the birth of liberated thinking and of psychology, a type of hidden monster syndrome, the battle between the subconscious and the conscious mind. The paper relates that Irving intends for sleep to be the medium through which he can examine the past and present states of America, rather than the internal struggle of his character, Rip.

From the Paper:

"In the text of "Somnambulism", the main character Althorpe is obsessed with thoughts of imaginary dangers that his love might fall prey to. During an inner dialogue Althorpe says "The evil that menaced was terrible" (1) although he even admits to himself that his fears were "groundless and ridiculous" (2). However, through his uncontrolled obsession he brings about his own greatest fears. While sleeping walking he fulfills his own prophecy and murders the girl by the oak tree. Althorpe looses all control of his own actions and wishes while sleeping."

More papers on American Gothic Literature:

• Analytical Essay # 119744 : "Poe and the American Gothic"
• Analytical Essay # 7907 : "Cooper and Brown: Early American Literature"
• Research Paper # 26516 : "Violence and Contemporary Literature"

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