Geoffrey Chaucer can be considered one of them. His 'The Canterbury Tales' had elements that could be considered horror - like. Another was Marie de France. She wrote some tales with elements of the supernatural and horror that were popular during the medieval era.
One popular author was the anonymous writer of 'Beowulf'. This epic poem contains elements of horror with its battles against monstrous creatures. Also, the Gawain - poet, who wrote 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight', created a story with a touch of the eerie. The Green Knight's strange appearance and the challenges he poses add a sense of horror to the tale.
M. R. James was also quite well - known. His ghost stories were very popular during the 1920s. His tales were often set in old, English institutions like universities and churches. He had a way of building suspense slowly, and his ghosts were not always the typical, transparent apparitions. For example, in 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad', the entity that haunts the protagonist is very menacing and not fully explained, leaving a lot to the reader's imagination.
One popular author was Henry James, with his work 'The Beast in the Jungle' which had a unique take on psychological horror. Stephen Vincent Benét was also well - known for 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' that combined horror and folklore. Fritz Leiber was recognized for his horror novel 'Conjure Wife' which explored witchcraft themes.
Peter Straub was a popular author during the 80's in the horror genre. His works such as 'Ghost Story' were widely read. Also, Robert R. McCammon had some great horror novels in the 80's. His 'They Thirst' was a well - received horror novel that delved into the vampire horror sub - genre.
Ursula K. Le Guin also has works that touch on medieval - like themes in a somewhat realistic way. Her writing often delves into the social and cultural aspects of what could be considered a medieval - inspired world. Additionally, Dorothy Dunnett has created some great works set in a medieval - ish world, with detailed descriptions of the period's politics, trade, and relationships between different classes.
Umberto Eco is another significant author. His 'The Name of the Rose' is a classic in the genre. Eco was a master at creating a complex and detailed medieval world full of mystery, and his work often delved deep into philosophical and historical themes while still maintaining a gripping murder mystery plot.
Sir Walter Scott is a very popular author. His works like 'The Fair Maid of Perth' are well - loved. He was able to capture the essence of medieval Scotland in his writing, creating vivid characters and engaging storylines full of romance.
There are several well - known authors in this genre. Edgar Allan Poe is one. His stories often have a dark and Gothic feel which can be related to medieval horror. His use of dark settings, like old mansions and crypts, is similar to the typical medieval horror settings. Another is Mary Shelley. Her 'Frankenstein' has elements of horror that can be traced back to medieval ideas of the unnatural and the consequences of playing God. These authors have all contributed to the development of the medieval horror novel concept.
Another possible popular author of 1904 short stories could be Anton Chekhov. His works often delved deep into human nature, and he was quite prolific around that time. There were also local or regional authors who were popular in their own areas but perhaps not as widely known globally.
There are several popular authors. Stephen King, as I mentioned, is a household name in horror. His ability to create vivid and terrifying scenarios is unrivaled. Joe Hill has followed in his father's footsteps and has created some really disturbing and thought - provoking horror stories. Paul Tremblay is known for his unique take on horror, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. Additionally, Carmen Maria Machado has been making waves with her innovative and often feminist - influenced horror stories.
R.L. Stine is really popular. He has written the 'Goosebumps' series which has terrified and entertained teens for years. His stories are full of spooky twists and turns.