1. Medieval Revivalism:
In the early 19th century, the Gothic style experienced a revival in architecture, literature, and art. This era, known as the Gothic Revival, saw a renewed interest in medieval architecture and aesthetics. Gothic architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and elaborate ornamentation, became popular in the construction of churches, castles, and other buildings.
2. Gothic Novel and Romance:
The term "gothic" became synonymous with the Gothic novel, a literary genre that emerged in the late 18th century and flourished during the Victorian period. Gothic novels often featured elements of horror, mystery, and the supernatural, set against medieval or mysterious historical backgrounds. Authors like Ann Radcliffe, Horace Walpole, and Mary Shelley wrote influential works that popularized the genre.
3. Gothic Horror:
The Gothic style in literature became closely associated with horror and the macabre. Writers like Edgar Allan Poe, Bram Stoker, and Robert Louis Stevenson crafted tales that evoked fear and suspense, often delving into themes of madness, death, and the unknown.
4. Gothic Architecture Revival:
The revival of Gothic architecture continued in the Victorian era, but it took on a more elaborate and ornate style known as Victorian Gothic. This style incorporated elements of Gothic Revival architecture with other influences, resulting in highly decorative and eclectic buildings. Examples include the Houses of Parliament in London and the St. Pancras Railway Station.
5. Anti-Gothic Sentiment:
Despite its popularity, the Gothic style also faced criticism from some Victorian thinkers and writers. Some viewed it as a backward-looking style that hindered progress and modernity. This anti-Gothic sentiment led to the rise of other architectural styles, such as Neoclassicism and Modern Gothic.
In summary, the meaning of the word "gothic" in Victorian times was multifaceted, encompassing the Gothic Revival movement in architecture and art, the Gothic novel and romance genre, Gothic horror literature, and the Victorian interpretation of Gothic architecture. It reflected the Victorian era's fascination with the medieval past, its exploration of the darker side of human nature, and its ongoing debate about aesthetics and architectural styles.