Ghost Stories Essay -- Literary Analysis, James, Gothic Tradition

Ghost stories are a truly timeless form of literature, the ghost, like death, has no end. Stories of the supernatural date back to early ancient manuscripts involving mythology, legend, and religion. The past few centuries have seen the supernatural flourish in Gothic romanticism through tales of fantastic creatures, demonic forces, and parallel dimensions (Scarborough). Interest in the immaterial has provoked many stories involving the interaction between the living and the returned dead. The well-engineered ghost stories of M.R. James encompass these settings and satisfy the appetite for eerie skin tingling reactions. James's narrative technique and folkloric superstitions in â€Å"the mezzotint†are aimed at involving and engaging the reader's awareness, imagination, and psyche. The realistic settings, supernatural elements, and sensational fiction that is doused in mystery, builds anticipation. James's clear an intelligent knowledge of human nerves elicits fear, excitement, and curiosity through imagery, the uncanny, and subtle suggestions that transform into personal supernatural experiences. The oratory nature of James's stories bring the characters and the drama to life and elevates fear in the reader with â€Å"disembodied texuality . . . fearing that these words on the page might spring to life† (Mulbey-Roberts 236). In contrast to supernatural Gothic tradition, James's short stories shy away from the elaborate romanticism and concentrate on basic elements of fear such as realism and victimization. The narrative style of James's â€Å"The Mezzotint† is similar to the original delivery of his ghost stories. With elements of direct speech, and candid conversation, the narrator awakens the readers awareness by controlling and regulating... ...rom the fear continues as the narrator states that the picture still hangs in the Ashliean Museum. James employs many techniques when he engages the reader. What is especially fascinating is that he makes it look effortless and the approach effectively intrudes upon the reader's emotions. The literary devices and compelling use of narrative works in unison to provoke fear, anxiety, and terror. In truly timeless tradition, James's ghost stories solicit eerie, supernatural settings that entice the reader into a realm of horror. James's well crafted encounters victimize the reader by invading their consciousness and imagination; while using realistic settings and believable characters he builds a rapport with the reader and uses it to his advantage. James is a master in his artistry and his stories will continue to be frightening for generations to come.