Mexican Gothic

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and many of Edgar Allan Poe’s short stories are categorized as Gothic literature. What do these stories, and others like them, have in common? What characteristics define gothic?

Teaching Suggestion: If students are unfamiliar with the stories of Frankenstein and Dracula, you might start this discussion with a conversation about what characters and settings students associate with Halloween.

• “Features of Gothic Literature” - This 12-minute video covers the origins and classic elements of Gothic literature. It is also conveniently segmented, allowing the viewer to select specific elements they want to focus on instead of watching the whole video.
• This post on Invaluable includes a useful graphic called “Gothic Literature Demystified” that summarizes the Gothic genre.

2. In the 15th century, Mexico was invaded and colonized by Spain. What impacts did Spain’s colonization of Mexican territory have on the Indigenous people of Mexico? What were Spain’s goals for the colonized land?

Teaching Suggestion: If students are unfamiliar with the colonization of Mexico, it might be helpful to ask them these questions, then direct them to the suggested or a similar resource. When they have had time to explore the site (5-8 minutes), call them back together to discuss these questions as a whole group.

• “The History of Mexico” - This article provides a succinct history of Mexico from pre-Columbian colonization to the present day. For the purposes of this novel study, the “Early History” and “Middle History” sections are most relevant.

Short Activity

Using the characteristics of Gothic literature, draw a gothic setting for an existing gothic story or one of your own making that features at least 5 gothic elements.

Teaching Suggestion: Before engaging students in this activity, ensure that they are familiar with the elements of Gothic literature.

• “Gothic Archive” - This article from the library site of Marquette University offers links to specific elements of Gothic literature, including discussions of various typical settings, and might help students explore the possibilities of Gothic setting before drawing their own.

Differentiation Suggestion: Some students have difficulty participating in certain learning activities, whether due to physical limitations, such as mobility impairments, or social anxiety disorders. This assignment could be completed on a computer using various illustration software or sites for students who would benefit from accommodation.

Personal Connection Prompt

This prompt can be used for in-class discussion, exploratory free-writing, or reflection homework before reading the novel.

Gothic literature, like horror, is used to explore our fears. Traditionally, old castles, “damsels in distress,” and “creepy aristocrats” make up the typical Gothic landscape, but those elements could use a refresh. What spooky or frightening elements of contemporary life might a modern Gothic novel incorporate?

Teaching Suggestion: To prepare students for this discussion, it might be helpful to make a list as a group of common fears that are unique to people today. Some possibilities could include climate change, gun violence, and pandemics.