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Challenge high school English students with this literary analysis worksheet for Algernon Blackwood’s Gothic short story “The Empty House.” This editable, print-and-go activity transforms a Halloween-appropriate ghost story into an engaging close reading exercise. By examining literary devices, character development, narrative technique, and theme, students will think critically about Gothic fiction and connect textual details to broader literary concepts, making this resource ideal for short story units, seasonal Halloween lessons, and standardized test prep.

“The Empty House” involves the exploration of an allegedly haunted residence, resulting in a series of increasingly harrowing paranormal experiences. The narrative’s adherence to the conventions of Gothic literature make it a compelling addition to a high school short story unit, especially during the Halloween season. The narrative pairs well with other works of speculative fiction involving ghosts, such as “The Furnished Room” by O. Henry and “A Ghost” by Guy de Maupassant.

Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will practice and demonstrate the following essential ELA skills:

• Identifying literary devices including irony, metaphor, allusion, personification, hyperbole, pun, and onomatopoeia.
• Interpreting figurative language by identifying implied metaphors and personified settings.
• Exploring irony in both the story’s title and surprising character/setting details.
• Examining narrative technique, including how an omniscient narrator builds credibility.
• Making logical inferences about character relationships, particularly Julia and Shorthouse’s bond.
• Exploring theme with evidence-based responses (e.g., how fear sharpens human senses).
• Defending claims with textual evidence, developing critical reading and analytical writing skills.