Synopsis: "Integrating philosophy and popular culture, Professor Weldon brings a lively and unique perspective to bear on some important reasons why our reaction to what "goes bump in the night" has evolved from a serious alert to danger into a popular and happy thrill. Dr. Scott W. Marshall, Professor of Communication & Media Arts, University of St. Francis, IL. With erudite and expansive treatment, Weldon engages key examples of ghost stories from the Western literary canon. His analysis explores how the universal qualities of aesthetics and humanity's self-awareness allow the supernatural to retain its significant place in literature and everyday life. This book makes for a great companion for courses in the horror genre, or a delightful and engaging read for the avid horror fan." -- quoted from this book's product page on Amazon.com as of 2016-10-28.