'The Red Room' by H.G. Wells is a pre twentieth short story, successfully exploring the trepidation of a gothic surrounding. Pre- twentieth century gothic mysteries include an old, derelict house, old mysterious people, abnormal events and the sense of an unwanted spirit. These features contribute to establishing a feeling of unease and insecurity to the reader. They encourage the reader to have preconceptions that help them engage into the story further. Throughout the story, …showed first 75 words of 905 total…

…showed last 75 words of 905 total…kept wondering what is going to happen next and is made to jump to conclusions about the ending. 'I can assure you that it will take a very tangible ghost to frighten me.' This is apparent even for the first line of the story. Suspense is also maintained by the use of images, especially in the room. 'Shadowy window bays.' This helps to bring the story alive in the mind of the reader.