The evolution of monsters in children’s literature

‘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.

Lauren Christie