Instructions
In this essay discuss how horror is used in “1408”. Use both the short story and the film to include the following in your essay:
What does horror mean to you?
How would define horror?
Is trauma connected to horror?
How the film differs from the short story
In the short story Mike talks about his brother but in the film it alludes to his losing a child. There seems to be no mention of the brother in the film, but a child may seem to replace the brother. Why the change? Is it more traumatizing for a parent to lose a child, or a sibling? Does one give more of a psychological impact over another?
What other genres do you see overlapping with horror?
How do you see the character Mike and Mr. Orlin in both?
What does each represent?/What do they signify?
Why is Mike given a bigger backstory in the film?
Focus:
This essay should have a clear thesis/statement of your argument somewhere in your first paragraph (your introduction). You must address your essay from an analytical perspective. Do not just cover the details of what occurs in the text(s). Instead use the short story and the film, textual evidence and your essay to explore your thesis (main idea). You should also make an effort to offer connections between the readings and establish analytical distinctions between the texts and your ideas.
Readings:
The readings you choose to support your thesis should help you demonstrate a critical understanding on the main idea (thesis). Summarizing the readings and film help in this instance. However, you should not mistake summary for analysis.
Requirements: For the first draft the goal is at least three to five (3-5) type written pages. This includes the works cited page. You must also have one outside source, not assigned in your essay. Your essay also must include the following criteria:
12 point font, Times New Roman
One inch margins
Double space your entire essay
