Women in Gothic

Question 1

Fear and terror portrayed through her often over exaggerated reactions. She is often shown fleeing a rapacious and predatory male. However, at times she is made to feel sympathy for the monster which pursues her.

Answer 1

The persecuted maiden

Question 2

A dangerous and rapacious creature, offering a real sexual threat. Often punished in their story for their transgressions.

Answer 2

The femme fatale

Question 3

Appearance of the persecuted maiden

Answer 3

The trembling victim: frail, blonde, silent, passive, helpless and innocent.

Question 4

Appearance of femme fatale?

Answer 4

Dark haired, red lipped, wearing a tight black dress and with a startling cleavage

Question 5

The dominating father is a key presence in the gothic but the role of the mother is also central to some narratives.

Answer 5

The mother figure

Question 6

Elizabeth

Answer 6

Absent or marginalised

Question 7

Some feel the powerful femme fatale represent emancipated women who no longer submit to male control.

Answer 7

Lucy Westenra