Explore how tension is created in The Woman in Black, with specific reference to genre

The gothic genre is teeming with dramatic character, hyperbolic setting and horror imagery, all of which combined are used to produce tension within a narrative; Hill's 1984 novella The Woman in Black is no exception.To illustrate, the woman in black herself, Jennet Humfrye, is characterised as stereotypically haunting, as is typical in the gothic genre. Intent on revenge for the death of her son Nathaniel, a motif of death and revenge follows her throughout the text. For example, she declares that 'He is mine... he shall not go to strangers. I shall kill us both before I let him go...' (ch. 9), before also being described as 'mad with grief... and a desire for revenge' (ch. 11). Therefore, this creates tension within the text as this technique is used to capture the interest of the audience, which builds as the narrative continues and they uncover secrets surrounding her fated past.

Answered by Olivia H. English tutor

2691 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How should I read a poem?


Explain, comment on and analyse how writers use structure to achieve effects and influence readers, using relevant subject terminology to support their views. (8 marks)


How do I make sure I get as many marks as possible for my analysis of a text?


What is the best way to structure an essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences