What are some notable British literature horror short stories?
A very good example is 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad' by M. R. James. It involves a strange whistle that summons an otherworldly presence. The story builds a great sense of unease and horror through its descriptions of the desolate coastal setting. Another is 'The Great God Pan' by Arthur Machen. It delves into the idea of the pagan god Pan and the horror that his existence and the knowledge of the 'Great Beyond' can bring, with themes of madness and the unknown.
One well - known British horror short story is 'The Monkey's Paw' by W.W. Jacobs. It tells the tale of a magical monkey's paw that grants wishes but with unforeseen and often terrifying consequences. Another is 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe, though he was American, his works had a great influence on British horror. It delves into the mind of a madman who is haunted by the sound of a dead man's heart. Also, 'Carmilla' by Sheridan Le Fanu is a classic. It's about a female vampire, predating Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' and exploring themes of female sexuality and horror in a unique way.
