Horror genres refer to a category of creative works, particularly in literature, film, and other forms of media, that aim to elicit fear, dread, or panic in the audience. These genres explore themes of the monstrous, the supernatural, the unknown, and the grotesque, often incorporating elements of suspense and psychological tension.
Horror can manifest in various sub-genres, including but not limited to psychological horror, supernatural horror, slasher films, monster horror, and science fiction horror, each emphasizing different aspects of fear. Common tropes within horror genres include haunted settings, malevolent entities, grotesque figures, and moral dilemmas that challenge characters’ sanity or survival.
The genre often reflects societal anxieties and cultural fears, using the lens of horror to comment on real-world issues through allegory and metaphor. It captivates audiences by tapping into primal emotions, provoking visceral reactions while exploring human experiences with death, mortality, and the fear of the unknown.