Ann Radcliffe and her Gothic Novel
Radcliffe and the Gothic “Gothic” is the choice for many individuals that feel marginalized in someway by class, gender, and other social differences that cause them to feel like outsiders. This is seen in both in gothic literature and the lifestyles of gothic writers. ... The life and writings of 18th century author Ann (Ward) Radcliffe is a prime example of personal escape through gothic elements and themes. The Mysteries of Udolpho, in line with traditional Gothic themes, symbols, and motifs, give insight into the authors personal life and her discontent with the enclosure of women in society. Not much is known about the actual life of Ann Radcliffe; she was a very private, quiet, and shy person. ... For example, Radcliffe was the only child of a haberdasher, but she had a number of respectable, genteel family connections, which gave her a comfortable life. At the age of eight Radcliffe’s guardianship was given to her uncle where she remained for the majority of her childhood and adolescence. ... ”(2) His deficiency was due to lack of ambition, which is exactly parallel to Radcliffe’s father and his failed pursuits. ... “Writing and reading were the only intellectual pursuits open to many women, and one of the reasons for the popularity of the novel. ... ” (Norton) Radcliffe’s rebellion against the typical English lady lifestyle is the reason why she began to write. ... This character who transcends barriers and eventually escapes is the heroine of the novel, and the person that society use as an example for life changes. ... The heroine is the most important character in the Gothic novel because everything is seen from her point of view. ... Compared to typical Gothic heroines Emily St. ... As fore-mentioned, the Gothic novels deal with liberation and escapism. ... As a symbol of enclosure in society and the attempted enclosure of her possessions by Monsieur Montoni, Emily is confined for a majority of the novel in the castle of Udolpho.