Gothic Girls: Haunted Houses, Unreliable Narrators, and Dark Secrets

In this atmospheric literature course from Bookish Society, students will explore two unforgettable modern gothic novels: Mexican Gothic and We Have Always Lived in the Castle.

Together, we’ll step into crumbling mansions, isolated families, eerie traditions, and psychologically unsettling worlds as we examine what makes gothic fiction so enduring and compelling. Through guided discussion and literary analysis, students will uncover how these novels use suspense, symbolism, horror, and atmosphere to explore deeper themes of power, identity, isolation, family dynamics, gender expectations, and fear.

Students will discuss:

• the elements of gothic literature,

• unreliable narrators and psychological tension,

• symbolism and setting,

• family loyalty and control,

• social expectations and rebellion,

• and the role of horror as social commentary.

This class emphasizes thoughtful conversation, close reading, and interpretation in a welcoming, discussion-based environment. Students will be encouraged to share theories, ask questions, and analyze the strange and unsettling details that make these stories so memorable.

Classes may also include:

• historical context for gothic fiction,

• comparisons between classic and modern gothic literature,

• creative response activities,

• annotation and literary discussion strategies,

• and optional themed projects or writing prompts.