What makes fairy tale scary stories appealing?

Threats to the main characters are also a big factor. In 'Beauty and the Beast', at first, the Beast is seen as a scary presence. He's large, has a fearsome appearance, and Belle is in his castle against her will. There's the threat that he might harm her, which makes the story a bit scary in the beginning. Also, the idea of being trapped in an enchanted place is scary in general.

They often have a sense of hope and innocence. The characters usually go through challenges but end up with a happy ending. Take 'Howl's Moving Castle' for instance. Sophie and Howl face many difficulties, but their love overcomes all, which gives viewers a warm feeling. Also, the art style in these anime is usually very beautiful. The detailed drawings of the characters and the dreamy landscapes enhance the overall charm of the love story.

The thrill. They offer a unique blend of the familiar fairy tale elements and horror. It's like taking something that was once innocent and turning it on its head. For example, in traditional fairy tales, we have princesses and magic, but in horror fairy tales, that magic can be used for evil or there are dark forces at play that add an extra layer of excitement.

The novelty. It takes familiar fairy tales and gives them a new twist. It allows for different perspectives on love and relationships.

Dark settings are common. For example, in 'Bluebeard', it's a big, mysterious castle with a locked room full of horrors. Also, there's often a menacing character. In 'Hansel and Gretel', the witch is the menacing figure. And in 'Little Red Riding Hood', the wolf is menacing. Another element is the threat of harm or death. The characters in these stories are often in danger of being eaten or killed.

Dark fairy tales are still appealing because they deal with real - life emotions and situations in a symbolic way. They can show the consequences of bad behavior, like the Queen's jealousy in 'Snow White' leading to her downfall. Also, they often have a sense of mystery and danger that draws people in.

The suspense. Horror tale stories keep you on the edge of your seat, not knowing what's going to happen next. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', you're constantly wondering if the narrator will get away with his crime or be caught by his own guilty conscience.

The contrast. Cartoons are usually associated with bright colors and fun, so when scary elements are introduced, it creates a unique and interesting contrast. It's like a subversion of expectations.

The main factor is the strong emotions they evoke. For example, in 'The Little Mermaid', we feel her heartbreak when she doesn't get her happy ending. It makes us think about sacrifice and unrequited love.

One of the scariest fairy tale stories is 'Bluebeard'. In this tale, Bluebeard is a wealthy man who marries a young woman. He gives her the keys to all the rooms in his castle but warns her not to open one particular room. Of course, her curiosity gets the better of her, and when she opens the room, she discovers the bodies of his previous wives. It's a very chilling story that has been told in many versions over the years.