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Year 7 - English

'The Twisted Tree': the novel as a Gothic text

'The Twisted Tree': fiction reading

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils read, explore and respond to the modern fairytale novel 'The Twisted Tree'. They start by reading the novel before practising writing analytically about the novel's key characters and themes. They finally respond creatively to the novel by writing an article and short script.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe how 'The Twisted Tree' follows the conventions of a Gothic text.

Key Notes

  • The Gothic genre is characterised by the use of desolate, remote settings and macabre, mysterious or violent incidents.
  • The setting in 'The Twisted Tree' is Gothic because the cabin is isolated and lots of the action happens in the dark.
  • There is a motif of fog in the novel which adds a sense of mystery and concealment.
  • The plot of the novel follows Gothic conventions because there is a supernatural enemy who must be defeated.
  • The Gothic genre often includes curses or prophecies, which are found in the novel.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Gothic: a style of writing that involves dark, mysterious, and supernatural themes
  • desolate: empty and bleak, often feeling lonely and abandoned
  • macabre: related to death and things that are creepy or horrifying
  • motif: a recurring theme, idea or symbol in a story
  • conventions: accepted rules or practices in a particular type of writing or genre

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Gothic literature is only about horror and scary elements.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

The Gothic genre is characterised by the use of desolate, remote settings and macabre, mysterious or violent incidents. The setting in 'The Twisted Tree' is Gothic because the cabin is isolated and lots of the action happens in the dark.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Gothic'

a style of writing that involves dark, mysterious, and supernatural themes.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Gothic literature is only about horror and scary elements. Correction: While Gothic literature often includes elements of horror, such as supernatural occurrences and eerie settings, it also explores complex themes like human psychology, societal anxieties and the supernatural as a metaphor for deeper fears or desires.

More Lessons In This Unit

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