The horror genre is a category of literature, film, and other media designed to evoke fear, dread, or shock in the audience. It often features supernatural elements, such as ghosts, monsters, or psychological terror, and explores themes like death, the unknown, and human vulnerability. Common settings include haunted houses, dark forests, or isolated locations that enhance the sense of danger. Horror stories frequently employ suspense and tension to keep the audience engaged. Iconic figures in the genre include Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy, while popular subgenres include psychological horror, slasher films, and supernatural horror. The genre aims to provoke strong emotional reactions, making it a unique form of storytelling.