Gothic Literature Students Explore Rare Manuscripts at the Rosenbach

Students in Mrs. Katie Cho’s Gothic Literature class recently stepped into the world of the macabre with a visit to the Rosenbach Museum and Library in Philadelphia. Dedicated to celebrating the art of the written word, the Rosenbach houses an extraordinary collection of rare books and manuscripts, offering a glimpse into the creative minds behind some of literature’s most enduring works.

Currently studying Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, students explored how real-life experiences shape storytelling. They had the rare opportunity to examine an original page from Stevenson’s unpublished autobiography, along with a poem he wrote about his childhood nanny. Adding to the excitement, they viewed a handwritten letter from Oscar Wilde and first-edition copies of literary masterpieces, including Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, John Polidori's The Vampyre, and Edgar Allan Poe's The Raven. The experience resulted in thought-provoking discussions. 

The visit concluded with a challenge to students to draw connections between their independent study authors and the iconic Gothic writers featured at the museum. This immersive experience deepened their understanding of the genre and its lasting influence on literature today.