One characteristic is the exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. For example, in 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', it shows how there can be a hidden, evil side within a person. Another is the use of gloomy settings. In 'Wuthering Heights', the moors add to the overall sense of desolation and darkness. And often, there is a sense of moral ambiguity, like in 'Dracula' where the vampire is both a terrifying figure but also somewhat alluring.
Classic dark novels usually have complex characters with deep - seated flaws or secrets. Take 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. Dorian's vanity and his pact with the devil - like portrait are at the core of the story. They also tend to have a sense of foreboding or impending doom. In 'Heart of Darkness', Marlow's journey into the Congo is filled with a feeling that something very bad is going to happen. Moreover, these novels often question society's values, like in '1984' which challenges the idea of a controlling government and the loss of individual freedom.
Most of them contain elements of the supernatural or the unknown. In 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', the transformation between the two personalities is a supernatural concept. And they tend to make the reader question the fundamental aspects of human existence and society, like in 'Heart of Darkness' which makes one think about colonialism and the human psyche.
Dark romance novels often have complex and flawed characters. For example, in 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff is full of rage and vengeance. The settings are usually gloomy or mysterious like the moors in 'Wuthering Heights'. The relationships are intense and often involve power struggles, as seen in 'Rebecca' where the new wife is overshadowed by the memory of the first wife.
Another aspect is the treatment of serious or taboo topics with humor. 'Slaughterhouse - Five' deals with the atrocities of war. But instead of presenting it in a straightforward and solemn way, Vonnegut uses dark humor to make the reader see the absurdity in the midst of the horror. It makes you question the whole idea of war and how we perceive it.
Dark classic romance novels often have complex and tortured characters. For example, in 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff is a brooding and vengeful character. The settings are usually gloomy or filled with mystery, like the old mansion in 'Rebecca'. There's also a sense of the forbidden in these novels, such as the relationship between a human and a vampire in 'Dracula' which adds to the dark allure.
Classic dark short stories often have a sense of foreboding. They may start with an ordinary setting but quickly introduce elements that make the reader feel uneasy. For example, in 'The Lottery', the idyllic small - town setting at first masks the cruel lottery tradition. Dark stories also tend to have complex characters, like the unreliable narrator in 'The Tell - Tale Heart'. Their actions are often driven by hidden motives, such as revenge or madness, as seen in 'The Cask of Amontillado'.
Classic dark horse comics often have unique storylines that stand out from the mainstream. They might feature unexpected plot twists or unconventional characters.
Well, these comics usually feature elements like mystery, horror, and a gritty visual style. They might also explore deeper themes and emotions.
Dark legacy comics classic are known for their rich world-building. They might include ancient secrets, powerful magic, and a struggle between good and evil. The characters often have a sense of destiny and face great challenges along the way.
One of the best dark classic novels is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. It's a masterpiece of Gothic horror, introducing the iconic vampire Count Dracula. Another great one is 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley. It delves into themes of creation, monstrosity, and the consequences of playing God. 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde is also a notable dark classic. It explores the idea of a man's soul being corrupted while his outward appearance remains beautiful.
One of the best is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. It's a classic horror novel that introduced the iconic vampire, Count Dracula. The dark and eerie atmosphere in the Transylvanian setting, along with the themes of the undead and the battle between good and evil, make it a must - read for lovers of dark literature.