The Gothic subculture emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, primarily from the post-punk music scene. It is characterized by a fascination with dark aesthetics, including black clothing, dramatic makeup, and an interest in themes of death, romance, and the supernatural. Key bands associated with this movement include Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Cure. Gothic culture also encompasses literature, art, and film, often drawing inspiration from Romanticism and horror genres. Participants in the subculture often express their identity through unique fashion choices, music preferences, and a sense of community that values individuality and creativity.