Lovecraftian horror novels are highly influential in modern horror literature. The genre introduced the concept of cosmic horror, which is about the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast and unknowable cosmic forces. This idea has been embraced by modern horror writers, who often create stories where the threat is not just a local or human - scale danger but something that spans the universe. Additionally, Lovecraft's use of atmosphere, with his detailed and often claustrophobic descriptions, has influenced how modern authors build tension in their horror stories. His works have also popularized the use of arcane and esoteric knowledge as a plot device, which is seen in many modern horror novels as well.
Lovecraftian horror novels have had a huge influence on modern horror. Their use of cosmic horror, where the threat is vast and incomprehensible, has been adopted by many modern authors. For example, the idea of an unknowable and powerful entity like Cthulhu has inspired new works that play with the concept of human insignificance in the face of the cosmos.
They provide the foundation. For example, the use of creepy settings in classic horror town novels like the haunted castles in 'Dracula' is often replicated in modern horror. Modern authors take the concept of a spooky location from these classics and adapt it to their own stories.
The story of Cain and Abel also has an impact. The idea of jealousy leading to murder within a family has been explored in modern horror literature, often with a more psychological twist. It gives a template for exploring the dark side of human relationships. Moreover, the use of religious symbols and the idea of a higher power being involved in the horror is a common motif borrowed from the Bible. The sense of an all - seeing, all - powerful entity that can bring about horror is something that modern horror writers like to play with.
Modern Lovecraftian horror novels often focus more on the cosmic horror aspect compared to traditional horror. Traditional horror might be more about immediate physical threats like a serial killer. For example, in Lovecraftian horror, the threat can be an indescribable, all - powerful entity from another dimension.
Well, Lovecraftian novels brought in unique settings and creatures. For example, the idea of ancient, unknowable gods and the strange, otherworldly landscapes. Modern horror literature often borrows these. Writers create stories set in desolate, Lovecraft - like places or use the idea of ancient, malevolent forces awakening. This gives a sense of dread that is distinct from just normal horror tropes.
1980s horror novels were very influential. They introduced new monsters and concepts. For instance, Clive Barker's 'Hellraiser' gave us the Cenobites, which inspired new types of horror creatures in modern literature. The psychological depth in 1980s horror, like in King's novels, made modern horror focus more on the internal struggles of characters along with the external horror elements. This made modern horror more complex and engaging.
The first horror novels provided the basic templates. For example, 'Frankenstein' introduced the idea of a created monster, and we still see this concept in modern horror, like in movies such as 'Splice'.
1970's horror novels had a huge influence on modern horror. For example, 'The Exorcist' introduced the idea of demonic possession in a very intense and realistic way. Modern horror often borrows this concept, exploring different aspects of it. 'Rosemary's Baby' with its satanic plot set a precedent for stories that deal with the occult. It showed how normal life could be infiltrated by the forces of evil. And Stephen King's 'Carrie', which focused on a character with special powers being an outcast, is often seen as a precursor to modern horror stories that deal with the psychological and physical abuse of outcasts.
1960s horror novels had a significant influence on modern horror literature. For example, the psychological horror elements in 'The Haunting of Hill House' have been widely adopted. Modern horror often focuses on the psychological state of the characters, creating fear from within, just like what Shirley Jackson did. Also, the idea of the ordinary turning into the terrifying, as seen in 'Rosemary's Baby', where a normal pregnancy becomes a nightmare, is a common theme today.
Gothic horror novels influenced modern horror literature by establishing many of its key elements. For example, the use of spooky settings like old castles and mansions. Also, the idea of the supernatural being intertwined with human stories.
80s horror novels had a huge influence. They introduced many iconic horror elements that are still used today. For example, Stephen King's works like 'The Shining' brought the idea of haunted places to the forefront. His detailed descriptions of the Overlook Hotel's malevolent presence influenced how modern writers create spooky settings. Also, the complex characters in these novels, such as the ones in 'It' who have to face their childhood traumas along with the external horror, became a model for modern horror to explore psychological aspects.