The Terror by Alfred Coppel (1938)
The Terror, written by Alfred Coppel, is a novel that explores the psychological effects of isolation and confinement on individuals. Set in the Arctic Circle during the 19th century, the story follows a group of sailors who are stranded on an ice floe after their ship sinks. As they struggle to survive the harsh conditions and each other's company, the characters begin to unravel, leading to a descent into madness and violence. The novel delves into themes of paranoia, hallucinations, and the blurring of reality, creating a sense of unease and tension that permeates the narrative. Coppel's writing is descriptive and evocative, immersing the reader in the desolate and unforgiving environment of the Arctic. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, their motivations and actions driven by their own personal demons and fears. Overall, The Terror is a thought-provoking and unsettling read that explores the darker aspects of human nature. Its haunting themes and masterful storytelling make it a compelling and memorable work of literature.
By Alfred Coppel · First published 1938 · Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Thriller · 2,739 words
First lines
The wars of nerves, the cold wars, of the /
early Twentieth Century pale into insignificance /
What this Textopian page supports
The Terror is listed on Textopian as a short story by Alfred Coppel, dated 1938 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Alfred Coppel
- Date: 1938 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Horror, Thriller
- Length: 2,739 words
- Structure: 1 section, 63 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Terror by Alfred Coppel
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Similar titles
- The Soul Scar by Arthur B. Reeve
- Preview Of Peril by Alfred Coppel
- The Victor And The Victim by Ambrose Bierce
- A Demand by Ambrose Bierce
- Geotheos by Ambrose Bierce
- Revenge by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Science Fiction — The novel is chiefly regarded as a work of science fiction due to its post-apocalyptic setting and the incidence of alien invasion.
- Horror — Elements of horror are present in the book, as it deals with themes of fear, terror, and the supernatural entity.
- Thriller — The suspenseful and fast-paced plot line conforms to the conventions of a thriller. The book keeps readers at the edge of their seat by using suspense to build tension.
Tags
thriller · horror · psychological · suspense · fiction · novel · French literature · German literature · WWII · Nazi regime · espionage · spy thriller