Catholic Horror and Rhetorical Dialectics

Gavin F. Hurley

Identifying an important subgenre of horror literature, this book argues that Catholic horror fiction works distinctively to inspire the philosophical, theological, and spiritual imaginations of readers from all backgrounds and faith traditions. Hurley analyzes four novels that are foundational to the genre of Catholic horror: J.K. Huysmans’s Là-Bas (1891), Robert Hugh Benson’s The Light Invisible (1903) and A Mirror of Shalott (1907), and William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist (1971). Putting these texts in conversation with the classical liberal arts, the book shows how Catholic horror fiction coheres in a commitment to dialectical thinking that aims both to resolve—and to accommodate—contrasting world views. Given its use of this methodology, Catholic horror literature is uniquely positioned to draw readers into a contemplative mindset. In presenting ghost stories, tales of possession, and narratives about evil, Catholic horror invites audiences to confront and reflect on profound existential questions—questions about the line between life and death, the nature of being, and the meaning of reality.

ISBN

978-1-61146-362-0

Year

2024

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Reviews

Catholic Horror and Rhetorical Dialectics successfully argues that Catholic truths can be perceived and understood through works of horror literature ranging from nineteenth-century novels to The Exorcist. In asserting that rhetorical dialectics is an ideal methodology for a distinctively Catholic mode of horror, this eminently readable and thought-provoking study reminds us that horror fiction should be taken seriously rather than seen as mere entertainment.

— Kevin J. Wetmore, Jr., professor of theatre arts at Loyola Marymount University

There is a difference between the dark arts and the art of darkness which is as wide as the distance that separates hell from heaven. The art of darkness exposes the evil and ugliness of the dark arts, exorcising its power with the light of goodness, truth, and beauty. In this much needed volume, Gavin Hurley explores the power of some of the great classics of horror fiction to exercise reason and rhetoric to exorcise demons, demonstrating the power of fiction to convey the deepest truths.

— Joseph Pearce, visiting professor of Literature at Ave Maria University

Catholic Horror and Rhetorical Dialectics is a welcome contribution to the growing studies on horror and religion. Gavin Hurley offers penetrating insight on Catholic horror literature that is not content to leave anything simply on the surface in what is perhaps an unexpected juxtaposition.

— Steve A. Wiggins, PhD, author of Holy Horror and Nightmares with the Bible

Winged and armored satan behind Jesus in white gown above barren ground with lava flows.

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