The Literary Forebearers of H.P. Lovecraft in the Genre of Horror

H.P. Lovecraft is renowned for his influential contributions to the horror genre, but his works were also shaped by a rich tapestry of early literary forebears. This exploration delves into the authors and influences that paved the way for Lovecraft’s unique narrative voice and storytelling style, ultimately providing a deeper understanding of his place in the history of horror literature.

Introduction to H.P. Lovecraft's Influence

H.P. Lovecraft, born Howard Phillips Lovecraft in 1890, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in horror literature. His works, characterized by a blend of cosmic horror, surrealism, and the uncanny, stand out in the genre. Lovecraft himself acknowledged that his writings were influenced by several literary forebears, which formed the groundwork for his own narrative style and thematic elements.

Early Horror Writers: Pioneering the Genre

To truly appreciate Lovecraft's impact, it is essential to examine the writers who laid the foundation for the horror genre. These authors, including Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker, Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, and Robert Louis Stevenson, contributed significantly to establishing the norms and practices of the genre.

Mary Shelley: The Birth of Gothic Horror

Mary Shelley is credited with writing Frankenstein from 1816 to 1818, a seminal work in the Gothic and horror genres. Shelley's narrative, which explores the themes of creation, the boundaries of human knowledge, and the consequences of playing God, heavily influenced Lovecraft. Lovecraft's cosmic horror often delves into the creation of a new world or reality, much in the vein of Frankenstein, albeit with a more expansive and cosmic perspective.

Bram Stoker: The Uncanny and the Repulsive

Bram Stoker is best known for his novel Dracula, published in 1897. Stoker's work introduced the concept of the vampire as a terrifying yet fascinating creature, blending elements of the supernatural with the human experience. Lovecraft's stories often feature monstrous and otherworldly entities that defy understanding, much akin to how Stoker's creatures challenge the limits of humanity's grasp on reality. Stoker's narrative techniques, particularly in building anticipation and suspense, are evident in Lovecraft's writing.

Edgar Allan Poe: The Dark Imagery and Narrative Structure

Edgar Allan Poe was already a prominent figure in horror literature by the time Lovecraft was beginning to write. Poe's highly stylized and often macabre narratives, such as The Black Cat and The Tell-Tale Heart, contributed to the atmosphere of fear and the psychological complexities of the human mind. Lovecraft's dedication to atmospheric horror and his exploration of the mind's capacity to unravel under supernatural stress reflect elements of Poe's influence.

Washington Irving: The Gothic and Historical Horror

Washington Irving, a leading figure of the early 19th-century American literary movement, wrote The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in 1820. This story is considered one of the first examples of American gothic horror and introduced the American audience to the genre through a blend of historical and supernatural elements. Lovecraft's own incorporation of historical and cosmic elements in his stories, such as his use of the phrase "Benedict Arnold's dogs," reflects Irving's influence in creating a mythic and historical context for his narratives.

Robert Louis Stevenson: The Savage and the Indigenous

Robert Louis Stevenson wrote The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in 1886, a work that delves deep into the psyche, exploring themes of self-hatred, morality, and the duality of human nature. Lovecraft's narratives often feature a similar exploration of duality and the unknown, albeit with a cosmic and extraterrestrial twist. Stevenson's narrative techniques and philosophical inquiries resonate in Lovecraft's works.

Lovecraft's Essay and Self-Reflection

Lovecraft himself provided insight into his own influences and the evolution of his literary style in his essay, Neschtruntz. In this essay, Lovecraft reflects on his literary journey and acknowledges the works that influenced him. He mentions Octavio Paz, Edgar Allan Poe, and Joseph Grosex Stone as significant influences. Lovecraft's homage to these authors and his recognition of their stylistic and thematic contributions underscore the intertextual nature of his writing.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Early Horror Writers

The works of H.P. Lovecraft are a testament to the enduring legacy of early horror writers. Authors such as Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker, Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, and Robert Louis Stevenson collectively shaped the genre, influencing Lovecraft in profound ways. Whether through their psychological depth, historical context, or the exploration of otherworldly entities, these forebears provided the necessary groundwork for Lovecraft's unique and influential contributions to horror literature.

Understanding the literary forebears of H.P. Lovecraft enriches our appreciation of both the authors and their works. As we continue to explore the horror genre, it is crucial to recognize the foundational influence of these early writers and the enduring impact they have had on the field.