A student guide to this popular literary genre. Contains tips and further reading for successful study at undergraduate level. A series of introductory books, the Genre Series offers students, writers and academics a window into some of the most popular topics, styles and periods in literature. Designed to be user-friendly, each volume shares the same structure, including: A broad definition of the genre and its essential elements A timeline of historical developments Critical concerns to bear in mind while reading Detailed readings of several key texts In-depth analysis of major themes and issues Signposts for further study A summary of the most important criticism in the field A glossary of terms An annotated, critical reading list. Authors covered in this volume include William Peter Blatty, Ira Levine, Bram Stoker, Shirley Jackson, Angela Carter, Mary Shelley, Stephen King, Anne Rice and Washington Irving.