Overview — Course No. 90014

Dive into the chilling world of psychological horror films and Victorian novels, where monsters are more human than you might think. This Halloween special course, led by experts like Eric R. Williams and Professor Cognard-Black, explores the genre’s impact and enduring appeal. Learn how psychological horror films and Victorian literature delve into the human psyche, creating monsters that haunt us long after the story ends. Discover why we’re drawn to horror and how it serves as a mirror to our deepest fears and moral dilemmas.

Video Lessons

01: Psychological Horror Films

Eric R. Williams guides you through psychological horror films, using three popular movies to illustrate how they stem from a foundational story.

Duration: 28 min

02: Victorian Horror Novels

Professor Cognard-Black examines Victorian novels, revealing how they humanized monsters and projected human fears into enduring fictional creatures.

Duration: 35 min

03: The Horrific, Moral, and Transcendental

Professor Breyer explores philosophical views on horror, categorizing monsters into horrific, moral, and transcendental types, and their roles in teaching us about fear and morality.

Duration: 33 min

04: Making Sense of Monsters: An Investigation into Horror

Understand the crucial role of monsters in horror, and why they are indispensable to the genre. Learn how they reflect our fears and moral compass.

Duration: 8 min