British Literature Romantic/Gothic Writing Prompt Compose an original short story (or several poems, if you prefer) that displays characteristics of Romantic and/or Gothic writing. Use precise diction, vivid imagery, and at least two types of figurative language. Highlight or underline your figurative language examples and label them according to what type they are (similes, metaphors, personification, etc…). In a paragraph following the story (or poems), explain the ways in which you have demonstrated Romanticism/Gothicism in your work. Your original story/series of poems should be at about two pages in length or more, followed by your analysis of your work. Traits of Romanticism: Imaginative, emotional, idealistic, focused on individuality (hero is often a rebel/eccentric), unrestrained, free, wild, sentimental. Writers value spontaneity, intuition, and passion, more than technical precision or logic. Plots often involve experimentation, a couple in love, events which are highly improbable. Works show a belief that all people are good and deserve equal treatment. Nature is seen as important, connected to the divine, a source of inspiration, wisdom and goodness. Traits of Gothicism: Forerunner of modern horror writing. Writers often explore that which is monstrous, mysterious, supernatural. Works frequently contain physical and psychological terror, mystery, extreme emotions, darkness, death, decay, madness, secrets, despair, dread, fantastic tales, an evocative atmosphere, isolated characters. There is often a “wanderer” who is the epitome of isolation, wandering the earth in perpetual exile. Isolation is often caused by characters’ offenses against God, man, or nature. Characters experience personal torment.
