Widely defined, the idea of provoking unease refers to the ability to cause worry or anxiety. Such an ability is an archetypal feature of the Gothic tradition. Unease, while not as potent or as definite as horror or terror, is typically considered to be the build-up to the two, and is essential in guiding our emotions towards the climax of a story. With reference to Bram Stoker's "Dracula", Angela Carter's "The Bloody Chamber" and Charlotte Bronte's "Jane Eyre", this essay shall explore the ways in which the Gothic provokes unease and the effects which this gives rise to.

One of the ways in which the Gothic provokes unease would be the exploration or presentation of transgressions which features in most, if not all, of its writings. Transgression refers to the blurring or obliteration of boundaries by acts, deeds or thoughts which are socially or morally wrong. Simply put...