In thirteen pages this paper presents a brief novel synopsis with the main emphasis being on Chapter 5 of the second volume in an analysis of symbols, themes, and dramatic tension. Five sources are cited in the bibliography.
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him, or at least make him an unique specimen in the mammal groups. And it can be said quite emphatically that mankinds persistence in recording his thoughts and feelings have
enabled future generations to continue to develop a broader emotional vocabulary and educational base from which to draw. Anne Radcliffes gothic story, The Mysteries of Udolpho is one such work
where this is evident. The Mysteries of Udolpho slowly unfold the story of Emily who finds herself in a terrifying situation when
Montoni seeks to marry her off in order to acquire her aunts estate. She resists Montonis threats and instead finds an inner strength which sees her through to a satisfying
conclusion. This book has been rightly called a female gothic novel. Radcliffes novel reads on many levels. If read entirely for
the plot, alone, it is worth it. However, if one wants the fullest enjoyment from the book, then understanding the psychological play between reality and fantasy, divine with the horrible
are necessary. For example, in the first volume Emily grows from a child to a married woman, shown to be a sheltered daughter. The death of her mother shifts
her quickly into a world which is dictated by the whims of the men who surround her, both her father and a potential lover.
Valancourt, though supposedly the love interest in the novel, seems so like St Aubert that it is difficult to see how Emily will be changed. Then, when
her fathers death occurs, the worst possible oppression begins for Emily. In discovering the truth of her step mothers demise, she is able to break away from Udolpho and its