Exploring The Magical Elements in “Doctor Sleep” and “The Shining” by Stephen King
Abstract
This study explores the presence and significance of magical elements within Stephen King's novels, "The Shining" and "Doctor Sleep." Although King is predominantly recognized for his contributions to horror and supernatural fiction, a notable knowledge gap exists concerning the use of magical realism in his narratives. Employing qualitative literary analysis, this research examines how King integrates supernatural occurrences within realistic settings to blur boundaries between reality and imagination. Findings reveal that King utilizes magical realism primarily through psychic abilities and supernatural entities, effectively deepening the psychological intensity and thematic complexity of his works. In "The Shining," magical realism manifests through Danny Torrance’s psychic gift and the haunted Overlook Hotel, merging supernatural horror with the exploration of internal human struggles. Similarly, "Doctor Sleep" expands upon these elements, delving into the origins of psychic powers and their implications for personal redemption and interpersonal connections. The results underscore King's adeptness at creating immersive narratives where magical elements intensify psychological realism. Consequently, the implications of this study highlight magical realism as a potent literary device that allows King to explore profound human experiences and ethical dilemmas, suggesting that his work should be reconsidered within a broader literary context beyond traditional genre classifications.
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