Strange or mean authority figures often feature. Like in some stories, the headmaster or a particular teacher is very strict and unfair, which creates a sense of dread. They might use old - fashioned and harsh disciplinary methods that seem cruel to modern sensibilities.
Isolation is a common element. Since students are away from their families, they feel more vulnerable. For example, in many stories, students are in a remote boarding school in the middle of nowhere.
Well, in haunted boarding school stories, there's usually a sense of mystery. There might be a particular area in the school, like an attic or a basement, that is known to be haunted. The characters often experience unexplained cold spots, which are believed to be signs of a ghostly presence. Also, objects might move on their own, like books falling off shelves or doors slamming shut without any wind or human cause.
Common elements in boarding school murders true stories may include psychological factors. Some students may have pre - existing mental health problems that are not properly addressed in the boarding school setting. Additionally, the close - quarter living situation in boarding schools can intensify conflicts. Minor disputes can quickly turn into major ones due to the constant proximity of the students. And sometimes, secrets and a lack of communication channels within the school can also contribute to the build - up of dangerous situations that may end in murder.
There are stories of bullying. In some boarding schools, a group of mean students might target a vulnerable new student. They could steal the new kid's things, spread false rumors about them, and even physically assault them in areas where there's little supervision, like in the bathrooms or empty hallways. It makes the victim's boarding school experience a living nightmare.
One common element is the shared environment. Since they are in a boarding school, they often have common experiences like dorm life or school events which bring them together. Another is the limited outside distractions, which makes it easier for their relationship to develop. For example, they might have more time to talk and get to know each other without the interference of a lot of non - school related things.
I don't think they are common. Boarding schools usually have a code of conduct that promotes respect and good behavior among students. Teachers and staff are also vigilant to prevent any form of harassment. So, while you may hear a few wedgie stories from time to time, it's not something that happens frequently in the boarding school environment.
One horror story is about the forced assimilation. Native American children were taken from their families and forced to abandon their own languages, cultures, and traditions. They were punished severely if they were caught speaking their native tongues. For example, they might be beaten or made to stand in cold water for long periods.
One common element is the presence of a haunted location within the school, like an old attic, basement, or abandoned wing. Another is strange noises such as creaking floors, whispering voices, or unexplained screams. Ghostly apparitions are also typical, whether it's a shadowy figure, a pale face at the window, or a full - body apparition in a hallway. And often there's a sense of mystery or a dark past associated with the school, like a student who died under mysterious circumstances long ago.
Common themes in boarding school short stories include growth. The characters often grow and change over time in the boarding school setting. They might start off as shy and become more confident. Also, competition is a theme. There are usually competitions between students, whether in academics, sports or other areas. This can create drama and tension in the stories. Additionally, homesickness is a prevalent theme. Many students in boarding school stories experience missing their families and homes, and how they deal with that is an important part of the narrative. For example, a student might overcome homesickness by getting involved in school activities.
A typical boarding school discipline story could be related to respect for property. In some schools, if a student damaged school property, like breaking a window during a game, they would be made to pay for the repair and also do community service within the school. It was a way to teach responsibility. Also, there are often stories about following study - hour rules. If students were caught chatting or not studying during study hours, they might lose their recreation time for a few days.
One common theme is identity exploration. Girls in these stories often struggle to come to terms with their sexual orientation while in the somewhat sheltered and often rule - bound boarding school environment.