In response to Lesley's post on Dorset:

] I have been inspired by the Tess VV and read to ask about Dorset. In a book I read by Simon Marsden Called The Haunted Realm he makes a comment that Dorset is considered the most haunted part of England. THR is basically a photo book of different haunted places in England, most of them quite old (medieval, etc.)

] Was the rise in popularity of the Gothic novel associated with different haunted places in England, particularly Dorset?

I taped the new Tess, but haven't had a chance to view it yet. Can't wait.

About your question: it seems to me that the late 18th/early 19th century popularity of the Gothic novel was a cultural phenomenon caused by a pendulum swing away from the attitudes of Classicism and the Age of Reason. Artists, writers, etc. began to explore a level of experience beyond the rational and everyday. That accounts for renewed interest in ghosts and the supernatural.

] I was also wondering if Dorset is really considered to be the most haunted place in England now.

I really don't know, but I do have a great little book on Dorset ghosts. There are such a lot of wonderful stories which Hardy drew on for his works. As it chances, I've been reading about Dorset for the past few months because I've set a novel there.

] I don't have Marsden's book right now but I am going to the library and I will check it out and give some particular places he mentions.

Thanks for the recommendation. I'll look for it too.

Suzanne

P.S. I tried to post this on the old board, but it wouldn't work. Are we supposed to be using this one exclusively? I shall have to visit the Help area.