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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
Pulp horror novels have had a profound influence on modern horror literature. Firstly, they created a foundation of horror archetypes that modern writers can draw from or subvert. For instance, the idea of the cursed object from many pulp horror novels can be seen in modern works. Secondly, pulp horror was not afraid to be lurid and extreme in its descriptions of violence and the supernatural, and while modern horror may be more refined in some ways, it still owes a debt to that boldness. Moreover, pulp horror's ability to create a sense of dread and unease, as in 'The Shining', has been emulated and developed in contemporary horror writing.
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.
1990s horror novels influenced modern horror literature in several ways. For example, Stephen King's works from that decade set a high bar for character - driven horror. His detailed characterizations in books like 'The Green Mile' made modern authors focus more on creating complex characters in their horror stories. Also, the themes explored in 90s horror novels, such as the battle between good and evil in 'The Stand', are still prevalent in modern horror.