Gods and monsters are significant in horror storytelling as they create a sense of the unknown. Monsters, with their strange forms and behaviors, make the audience feel uneasy. Gods, especially those with dark or ambiguous natures, add a layer of mystery and danger. For example, in Greek mythology - inspired horror, the gods' wrath can lead to catastrophic events for the mortals.
In horror stories, gods can often be portrayed as malevolent or indifferent. For example, in some ancient myth - based horror, a god might demand cruel sacrifices. Monsters, on the other hand, are usually the direct source of fear. They can have grotesque appearances, like the werewolves with their half - human, half - beast forms. Their actions are unpredictable and violent, which creates a sense of dread for the characters in the story and the readers alike.
Sometimes, there are human characters who get caught up in the affairs of the gods and monsters. They can be the link between the two worlds. These human characters might start as ordinary people but through some fateful encounter, they become involved in the grand battles and power plays between the gods and monsters. Their journey of self - discovery and growth within this chaotic world of gods and monsters can also be a major focus of the story.
Another possible monster could be the Tokoloshe. It's a dwarf - like creature that is often associated with mischief and evil deeds. It can enter people's houses at night and cause all sorts of trouble, from stealing things to causing nightmares or even harming people physically.
The theme of morality often plays a big part. Gods are typically seen as the upholders of good, but in 'gods and monsters novel', they might not always act morally, and the monsters may have their own code of ethics which challenges the traditional view of good and evil. This creates a complex exploration of right and wrong.
The gods and monsters in Greek mythology were based on many different historical and mythological characters. The following are some common examples:
Zeus was based on the Roman god Jupiter.
Apollo was based on the Greek god of the sun, Artemis.
Heracles was the prototype of the son of Jupiter, one of the sons of Zeus in Roman mythology, and was considered a symbol of courage and adventure.
Athena's prototype was the goddess of wisdom in Greek mythology. Athena was the daughter of Zeus and was considered a symbol of war, wisdom, culture, and technology.
The prototype of Orethea was the goddess of hunting in Greek mythology. Orethea was one of the daughters of Zeus and was considered a symbol of nature, wildness, and adventure.
Poseidon's archetype was Poseidon, the god of the sea in Roman mythology. Poseidon was considered a symbol of the sea, strength, and power.
The prototype of Hephaestus was the furnace god in Greek mythology. Hephaestus was considered a symbol of creation and destruction.
In addition, many other characters and monsters in Greek mythology also had historical archetypes, such as the Trojans in the Troy War, Austin and his friends in the journey of Austin, and so on.
Zombies can be used effectively. They represent mindless, relentless hordes that are driven by a basic instinct to consume. The idea of being surrounded by a slow - moving but unstoppable mass of the undead is terrifying. You can have them overrunning a small town or chasing the protagonist through an abandoned city.
Werewolves. These half - human, half - wolf creatures are full of rage during the full moon. The transformation from a normal human to a blood - thirsty beast is a great source of horror. The idea that anyone could potentially be a werewolf, hiding their true nature, adds an element of mystery and danger.