For some reason, Gothic Novels are extremely appealing to me. There must be some reason for the infatuation I have with books involving dark and brooding characters that usually die in the end. I have recently finished reading Wuthering Heights and was thoroughly surprised to be engaged throughout the entire book. Heathcliff is, in my opinion, the most cruel and vengeful character ever to be brought to life in words. All of his actions were done in revenge. And yet there is something strangely interesting about him. Is it that I, the reader, want to know his true motives? Is it that I already know his true motives and want to see how they play out?
Are Gothic Novels this appealing to anyone else? Wuthering Heights is a Gothic Romance and yet it still appeals to me, despite my contempt for anything sappy. Of course, there is little romantic talk within the novel, rather it deals with violence and revenge stemming from the love that remained unconsummated in marriage. But what about Gothic Novels appeals to people. It can be plainly seen that it is a genre that is widely popular, especially in movies. Many horror and suspense films would fall under the category of "Gothic." Do people enjoy delving into the blackness of people's souls and seeing what comes out? Deep down we are aware that people really can sink so low as to be barely recognized as human. Gothic productions may just be another way of looking into human nature and all its intricacies, and yet it is enjoyable for all its deficiencies.
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