In the novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley, the element of Gothic literature that is most evident is D. Psychological terror.
1. Explanation:
- Psychological terror refers to the use of fear, anxiety, and emotional manipulation to evoke a sense of dread and unease in the reader.
- In "Frankenstein," the focus is on the psychological effects of Victor Frankenstein's creation of the monster. The guilt, isolation, and inner torment experienced by Victor, as well as the emotional turmoil of the monster himself, contribute to the psychological terror present throughout the novel.
2. Example:
- An example of psychological terror in the novel is Victor's mental anguish and descent into madness as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. His fear of the monster, coupled with his guilt over creating it, showcases the psychological depth of terror in the story.
While elements like a motif of death, physical terror, and a grim setting also play a role in Gothic literature and are present in "Frankenstein," the predominant element that drives the narrative and evokes a sense of unease in the reader is the psychological terror portrayed through the characters' inner struggles and emotional turmoil.
