What is the purpose of contrasts in gothic novels?

Contrasts in gothic novels serve to heighten tension and emphasize the themes of duality, such as good versus evil and sanity versus madness. By juxtaposing light and darkness, safety and danger, or the familiar and the unknown, these novels create an unsettling atmosphere that enhances the emotional impact on the reader. This use of contrast also deepens character development, as protagonists often grApple with internal conflicts and moral ambiguities. Ultimately, these contrasts amplify the suspense and evoke a sense of dread, which is central to the gothic genre.