For my AP English term paper, we're writing comparison papers. I'm interested in reading Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen, and I'd like to read a good example of a Gothic novel to compare it to (I understand Austen's book is a parody). Any suggestions for books with a similar plot line, or just an altogether good example of the genre would be appreciated. Thanks!
ck1
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My suggestion would be for you to pick something known to Jane Austen and also mentioned in Northanger Abbey. The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe would fit the bill as it is generally considered one of the quintessential Gothic romances and could be said to play a rather important role in Jane Austen's novel.
It might be interesting to compare what Catherine Morland, Jane Austen's main character in Northanger Abbey, thinks her life will be like as opposed to what Jane Austen portrays as the reality.
As a note: Ann Radcliffe's The Italian is also mentioned in Northanger Abbey as are several other Gothic novels. This site http://www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/litallus.html lists various works alluded to by Jane Austen in her novels. Even Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northanger_Abbey#Allusions.2Freferences_to_other_works lists some of the works mentioned in Northanger Abbey.
By the way, if you wanted to go with one of the Bronte sisters' works, you might also want to consider Wuthering Heights. Jane Austen wouldn't have had the chance to read their novels of course, but they could work as comparisons even so. Whichever novel you choose, I wish you success on your AP English term paper.
Kevin
Jane Eyre is one, you might also want to try Frankenstein.