PENNY DREADFULS Meaning and
Definition
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Penny dreadfuls refer to a particular genre of cheap, sensationalist fiction that emerged in nineteenth-century Britain. These publications were typically short stories or serialized novels, printed on low-quality paper and commonly sold for just one penny, hence the name "penny dreadfuls."
The content of penny dreadfuls often focused on gruesome and thrilling tales, filled with suspense, horror, crime, adventure, and often embellished with supernatural or sensational elements. These stories captivated a broad audience, particularly young readers who were seeking excitement and escapism. The narratives often featured larger-than-life protagonists engaged in swashbuckling heroics or navigating perilous situations. This genre became hugely popular during the Victorian era and continued to flourish until the early twentieth century.
Penny dreadfuls were criticized for their perceived negative influence on young readers, often accused of promoting immorality, sensationalism, and violence. Concerns arose that these publications might corrupt the minds of impressionable audiences. Nevertheless, penny dreadfuls played a crucial role in popularizing fiction consumption among working-class individuals who otherwise had limited access to literature.
In modern times, the term "penny dreadfuls" may also be used metaphorically to describe any form of cheap, sensationalized entertainment or literature that lacks depth or artistic merit.
Common Misspellings for PENNY DREADFULS
- oenny dreadfuls
- lenny dreadfuls
- -enny dreadfuls
- 0enny dreadfuls
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- psnny dreadfuls
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- p4nny dreadfuls
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- pebny dreadfuls
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- penby dreadfuls
- penmy dreadfuls
- penjy dreadfuls
- penhy dreadfuls
- pennt dreadfuls
Etymology of PENNY DREADFULS
The term "penny dreadfuls" originated in the 19th century in Britain. It is a combination of "penny", which refers to the price of one penny, and "dreadfuls", a colloquial term for a type of cheap, sensational literature. These inexpensive publications were typically sold for one penny and contained thrilling, often lurid stories aimed at the working class audience. The term "penny dreadfuls" was first used to describe these popular magazines in the mid-19th century and has since become synonymous with sensational and sensationalist literature.
