ENGLISH 400: MONSTER THEORY
THEORY READINGS
MONSTER THEORY
Written by J.J. Cohen
J. J. Cohen’s book Monster Theory was a part of our class’ reading for Monster Theory. We focused on his chapter "Monster Culture (Seven Theses)" which introduced us to the basic tenants of Monster Theory and how monsters reveal more about the cultures that fear them.​
MONSTERS IN AMERICA: OUR HISTORICAL OBSESSION WITH THE HIDEOUS AND THE HAUNTING
Written by Scott Poole
Through Scott Poole’s Monster’s In America: Our Historical Obsession with the Hideous and the Haunting, we were introduced to Monster Theory with an American History focus. Poole introduces the theory while relating it all back to American tragedies and atrocities. The focus allows a greater focus on cinematic monsters and their embodiment.
POWERS OF HORROR: AN ESSAY ON ABJECTION
Written by Julia Kristeva
In Julia Kristeva's essay "Powers of Horror: An Essay on Abjection" we have a deep dive into the hauntingly attractive powers of the abject. We are introduced to the type of horror that not only disgusts but enchants. Horror as we know it relies on the abject, that being that we are repulsed and enthralled.
SKIN SHOWS: GOTHIC HORROR AND THE TECHNOLOGY OF MONSTERS
Written by J. Halberstam
J. Halberstam's Skin Shows: Gothic Horror and the Technology of Monsters introduced us to the concept of abject skin and misleading appearances. The racial aspect of gothic horror is dissected to talk about monstrous skin and the change in gothic. The monsters lurk in and beyond the skin and the gothic thrives on misdirection.