gothic

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Audiendus
Wordmaster
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Joined: Sun Feb 14, 2010 6:08 pm
Location: London, UK

gothic

Postby Audiendus » Fri Oct 29, 2021 2:28 am

gothic

As we approach Halloween, I suggest this topical word.

With a capital G, it can refer to (a) an old Germanic people or their language, or (b) a style of grand medieval architecture, which was revived in Britain in the 19th century. But with the meaning I am concerned with here, it can optionally be spelled with a lower-case 'g':

A style of fiction involving the macabre, with remote settings such as old castles, mansions or graveyards, and an air of mystery, darkness and/or horror.

Perhaps the most famous example of gothic fiction is Bram Stoker's Dracula. These days, as we are less credulous, the genre is more likely to be a parody of the original style.

bbeeton
Senior Lexiterian
Posts: 552
Joined: Sat Oct 24, 2020 11:34 am
Location: Providence, RI

Re: gothic

Postby bbeeton » Fri Oct 29, 2021 12:47 pm

It's also a fashion conceit, characterized by black garments and accessories, extending even to black lipstick. (And, as seen on a couple of young female adherents some years ago, what appeared to be smudges of ashes on their faces.) Those adopting this style may call themselves Goths.

Not quite my thing, I confess. And I doubt the historic Goths would recognize the modern ones.


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