This episode of Horror Joy delves into the chilling intersection of horror and politics. Brian and Jeff are joined by Lucas Kwong, scholar and host of the podcast Monster in the Mirror, to explore the connections between Christian Nationalism and horror, with a particular focus on Bram Stoker's Dracula and Gothic literature.

We'll uncover the haunting parallels between these two seemingly disparate forces, discussing:

• Horror as a Liberating Force: Can horror serve as a mechanism for challenging oppressive ideologies?
• Dracula's Nationalist Roots: Exploring the ways in which Christian Nationalism finds resonance in Dracula and Gothic literature.
• Found Footage and Fear: The connection between found footage horror and the rise of Christian Nationalist YouTube channels.
• Gothic American and Jordan Peele's US: Analyzing the current state of Gothic American and its reflection in Peele's chilling film.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of horror, politics, and the rising threat of Christian Nationalism. Let's hope we can find some joy amidst the horror of our political reality.

Monster in the Mirror hosted by Lucas Kwong

Benedict Anderson’s imagined communities

The Beetle Gothic Novel

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Christian Nationalism

Straight White American Jesusv

CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network)

Justice Samuel Alito “Appeal to Heaven” flag

Visions of Bodies Being Burned by Clipping

Us Directed by Jordan Peele

The Last of Us (Television Show)

The Stand by Stephen King

Salem’s Lot by Stephen King