This course will explore the evolution of the Suspense and Gothic/Horror genre in American Literature. As we study this genre we will unpack the key elements and applications of literary texts and their connections to societal values of character and ethical paradigms between right and wrong. This genre is unique in its primary goal to evoke emotion and elicit reader responses of shock and fear as it pushes the limits of what is considered culturally acceptable and at the same time uses style, characters, setting and plot to reach the human psyche and engage readers. You will be immersed in the world of literature and writing all while participating in rotating literature pods for continuous analysis and discussion.