Essay Questions

What Gothic elements does Ray Russell use?

Russell employs many Gothic elements in this text, including its setting. The church and the rectory are key settings in this text, which are both classic Gothic settings. This is because Gothic texts are often concerned with the religious and the supernatural, and often expose the corruption that exists in organized religion. Russell also sets particularly frightening scenes in thunderstorms and darkness, to create an elevated sense of fear. Russell also uses cliffhangers and tension to create a sense of horror and apprehension, which is a key feature in Gothic novels.

Give an example of how Russell creates suspense and intrigue.

Russell creates plenty of suspense and intrigue in the first chapter, in order to make the reader want to carry on reading. First, he introduces Susan and her father in a very mysterious way, describing them as figures "cloaked in shadow." They are introduced in a dark, eerie setting, which suggests something untoward is happening. As such, we want to read on to discover who they are.

At the end of the chapter, Gregory is listening to some relaxing music. All of a sudden, the music takes a sinister turn, which hints that something ominous is going to happen. At the end of the chapter, the doorbell rings which makes us read on to discover who is at the door.