Writing Horror

Horror is one of the most misunderstood genres in fiction, but also a genre with one of the most loyal and passionate fanbases in the market.

On this course, we will explore the history of horror and the contemporary landscape, and explore the core forms that horror can take.

Exploring key theories, tropes and techniques, you will be given the tools to start writing fiction within the horror genre and explore some of the most influential horror texts in the Western canon, as well as being introduced to some key contemporary voices in the genre.

Whether you are interested in writing for screen or for the page, you will be given the tools to craft your own narratives and start horrifying audiences for yourself.

Learning and teaching

There will be two-hour meetings once a week (20 contact hours in all) which will include discussions, exercises, craft lectures and workshops.

There may also be audio-visual clips and students might be directed to some relevant podcasts.

Learners will be encouraged to read texts introduced by the tutor and other members of the group. They will also be encouraged to share their creative work and obtain peer feedback on their writing.

Online provision will be made available through Learning Central with relevant links to resources, class handouts and PowerPoint presentations.

The university’s Virtual Learning Environment, Learning Central, provides a useful resource for course materials, lecture slides and additional reading

Syllabus:

Indicative content is likely to include:

• Defining Horror: Literary roots of the Horror genre
• Key Tropes in Horror Fiction: the Gothic, the monster and modern innovations
• How horror connects to individual and collective anxieties, the social underpinnings of the genre
• Spaces to share horror writing
• Audiences and critics
• Developments in the horror genre

Coursework and assessment

Portfolio: 100% - This portfolio will consist of a piece of creative horror writing, inspired by one or a combination of classes from the course, and a commentary on the creative process.

1500-2000 words. Due 1 week after the end of the course.

Reading suggestions

The Readers’ Advisory Guide to Horror (Third Edition, 2021) by Becky Siegel Spratford

Horror Literature From Gothic to Post-Modern (2020) edited by Michele Britanny and Nicholas Diak

The Hauntologist: Horror Studies Resources - https://www.thehauntologist.com/horror-studies-resources.html

RA For All: Horror (Resources) - https://www.thehauntologist.com/horror-studies-resources.html

You will be provided with further reading suggestions at the beginning of the course.

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.