the female gothic

The female gothic is a literary genre that explores women's fears, emotions, and experiences within dark, often eerie settings. It combines elements of horror, romance, and psychological tension to reveal issues like gender roles, oppression, and personal identity. Typically set in remote or old locations such as haunted houses or deserted castles, these stories use suspense and supernatural themes to symbolize women's struggles for autonomy and self-discovery, highlighting societal constraints and inner conflicts. The female gothic emphasizes emotional depth and often features female protagonists navigating a world that limits or threatens their independence.