DM answers “Did anyone else think the major theme or...”

Regan asked this question about The Haunting of Hill House:

Did anyone else think the major theme or "horror" of the book is repressed female (lesbian) sexuality?

DM I didn't think of it as horror, but it was a prominent theme, so it could be. I took the horror to be her own self-consciousness and how she was alway…moreI didn't think of it as horror, but it was a prominent theme, so it could be. I took the horror to be her own self-consciousness and how she was always judging herself and others to the point that it overwhelmed her. I can see your interpretation, though, that part of her is urging her to "come home" or embrace her sexuality, or alternatively, telling her to return to her prior life before this part of her was revealed. If that is the case, what do you make of the ending of the book, and what do you make of the fact that she can sense everything that happens inside the house?(less)

flag

More questions about The Haunting of Hill House…

The Haunting of Hill House

by Shirley Jackson

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more