
The first anthology to trace the evolution of the ghost story over the last 100 years, this book demonstrates the variety and versatility of the genre and the different ways in which stories of the supernatural have adapted to 20th-century venues and concerns. In 33 stories by such notable authors as Edith Wharton, M.R. James. Algernon Blackwood, A.S. Byatt, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Angela Carter, this gripping collection shows the ingenuity of modern writers in adapting a classic genre to this century.
This anthology examines the evolution of the ghost story throughout the twentieth century by presenting a curated selection of supernatural narratives. The collection follows the development of the genre as it shifts from traditional gothic tropes to modern psychological and social concerns. Through a variety of narrative frameworks, the stories explore how authors utilize the supernatural to reflect the anxieties and technological shifts of their respective eras. The anthology serves as a comprehensive survey of how the ghost story maintained its relevance across a century of rapid cultural change.
Readers and critics frequently highlight the anthology's success in demonstrating the genre's adaptability over a hundred-year span. Discussion often centers on the contrast between the early century's traditional gothic atmosphere and the later stories' focus on internal, psychological dread. Reviewers appreciate the inclusion of both canonical figures and less common voices, which provides a balanced view of the genre's breadth. The pacing is noted as varied, reflecting the different stylistic approaches of the contributing authors. Many readers find the collection effective for understanding the historical trajectory of supernatural fiction in the modern era.
Page Count:
444
Publication Date:
1997-01-01
ISBN-10:
0192880381
ISBN-13:
9780192880383
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