Abstract
‘The Evolution of Monsters in Children’s Literature’ will chart the developing form of the monster in literature for young people and discuss ways in which different guises can alter the fear experienced by the reader. Literary monsters must continuously adapt according to the developing maturity of the reader to ensure a consistent balance of fear and imagination. In order to approach the subject of fear and monsters in children’s literature, and potential reasons behind their presence, this article will explore a wealth of issues such as: the impact of different formats (visual or text only), specific attributes or qualities that can evoke fear from the reader, and the monster as both comical and fearful. Fear in society is typically heightened when faced with the unknown entities of the future. Therefore, this article will conclude by considering the form of future monsters in order to represent this shift in anxiety and potential forms that the monster is yet to adopt.
Highlights
Monsters that we create or are exposed to in early childhood can often linger in the memory and imagination of an individual due to a personalisation of fear
In Jumblebum Strathie appears to be returning to the origins of the monster, a figure that is used as a scare tactic in order to highlight an underlying issue
This picture book consists of various scenarios that are considered relatable to children: a messy bedroom, a young protagonist, and a fear of the dark
Summary
Monsters that we create or are exposed to in early childhood can often linger in the memory and imagination of an individual due to a personalisation of fear. The narration conveys the absolute certainty of imagination within a child’s mind—to an adult it may seem impossible, but to the protagonist Max, these events occurred in real life This story depicts a brave young boy entering a land full of mysterious creatures, ‘the place where the wild things are’, In Jumblebum Strathie appears to be returning to the origins of the monster, a figure that is used as a scare tactic in order to highlight an underlying issue This picture book consists of various scenarios that are considered relatable to children: a messy bedroom, a young protagonist, and a fear of the dark. The mouse realises that the fictional warnings that he has been relaying are, reality: But who is this creature with terrible claws
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