Symbolism of Windows in Horror Movies

There are many memorable horror movie scenes that have included windows over the years. There is a deeper symbolism that is spoken to by windows in horror movies. The next time that you see windows in horror movies, think about these points of symbolism. You might even find yourself a little leery in real life when you pass by a window.

Narrow View of the World

When you look through a window, you have a narrow view of the world. For the most part, you are only able to see what is right in front of you. Sure, you can see a little bit on the sides, but not very much. This gives the monsters and the slashers area to hide on the sides of, underneath and above the window. Remember that people that have a narrow view of the world can be blindsided easily.

Minimal Protection

Windows only give minimal protection from the outside world. Heat, cold, heavy rains and strong winds can still creep in through a window. Jason Voorhees has been known for jumping through windows in the "Friday the 13th" movie series. A window simply slows him down a little bit. You can pull the shades down, but he can easily shatter the window to get at you.

Sometimes We See Things We Don't Want To

How many times have you seen a character look through a window to see a creature or slasher creeping around outside? The fear and tension will usually skyrocket at these moments. I once heard someone say that "If you don't want to see what is outside, don't look out the window. This holds true for many horror movies.

Windows Reflect

When you look through a window and night, chances are good that you are going to see your own reflection. Sometimes, you will see things that you do not want to. Seeing the reflection of a ghost, slasher or creature in a window has become an overused trick over the years, but the symbolism remains to this day.

Benjamin Franklin Lines

Benjamin Franklin has been credited with saying the line , "Windows are made only of glass." The goal of the line was to show that sometimes items that we rely on are made of simply substances. At the same time, remember that glass can cut. Tossing someone through a window will not only give bashing damage, but can also cut. Franklin also said "Sometimes that simplest things in life kill us with ease," and that line could fit in with this point as well.