Arthur Machen

Definition

Arthur Machen was a Welsh author and mystic, best known for his supernatural fiction and his influence on the horror genre. He emerged during the late Victorian period, contributing to the changing landscape of literature as authors began to explore darker themes and the limits of reality, intertwining mysticism with psychological depth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machen's most famous work, 'The Great God Pan,' is often regarded as a seminal text in horror literature, exploring themes of the unknown and the uncanny.
2. He believed in the mystical and supernatural aspects of life, often weaving them into his narratives to challenge readers' perceptions of reality.
3. Machen's style is characterized by rich descriptions and an emphasis on atmosphere, creating a sense of dread and wonder that engages readers on a deeper level.
4. His writing significantly influenced later horror writers, particularly in how to blend psychological elements with supernatural occurrences.
5. 'The Angels of Mons,' a short story written during World War I, showcased Machen's belief in spiritual warfare and became a widely circulated myth during the war.

Review Questions

• How did Arthur Machen's works reflect the changing attitudes towards reality and the supernatural during the Victorian era?
  • Arthur Machen's works reflected the shifting perspectives on reality by delving into the supernatural and exploring the unknown. He incorporated mysticism and psychological depth into his stories, presenting characters who faced challenges that questioned their understanding of reality. This exploration resonated with readers during the Victorian era, a time when traditional beliefs were being challenged by emerging scientific ideas.
• Discuss how Machen's influence can be seen in modern horror literature and its evolution since the Victorian period.
  • Machen's influence in modern horror literature is evident in the way contemporary authors draw from his themes of existential dread and the exploration of the supernatural. His ability to blend psychological tension with horror set a precedent for writers like H.P. Lovecraft and Stephen King. This evolution reflects an ongoing fascination with human psychology and fear of the unknown, continuing to shape modern narratives in horror.
• Evaluate the impact of Arthur Machen’s works on society’s perception of spirituality and mysticism in literature during his time.
  • Arthur Machen’s works had a profound impact on society’s perception of spirituality and mysticism in literature by challenging conventional narratives and introducing readers to alternative views of existence. Through his stories, he suggested that there were layers of reality beyond what was visible or known, encouraging readers to explore deeper existential questions. This approach contributed to a broader cultural shift towards valuing subjective experiences and spiritual dimensions in literature during his time.

Related terms

Supernatural Fiction: A genre of fiction that incorporates elements beyond the natural world, often involving ghosts, deities, or other mystical occurrences.

H.P. Lovecraft: An American writer known for his contributions to horror fiction, particularly his creation of a shared universe of cosmic horror that drew inspiration from Machen's works.

Decadent Movement: A late 19th-century cultural movement characterized by a reaction against traditional moral values, often exploring themes of excess, ennui, and the grotesque.