horror tropes

Horror tropes are common storytelling devices or themes used in scary stories to evoke fear or suspense. Examples include haunted houses, evil spirits, or monsters lurking in the dark. These familiar patterns help create tension and anticipation because audiences recognize the setups or symbols, making the story more engaging. While some tropes are standard, they can also be creatively subverted to surprise viewers. Overall, horror tropes serve as a toolkit that guides the emotional experience, often relying on shared fears like death, the unknown, and losing control.