The horror genre is a category of literature, film, and other media designed to evoke fear, dread, or shock in its audience. It often features supernatural elements, such as ghosts, monsters, or psychological terror, and explores themes like death, the unknown, and the darker aspects of human nature. Popular subgenres include psychological horror, slasher films, and gothic horror. Horror stories often use suspense and tension to build an atmosphere of fear. Iconic figures in the genre include Stephen King, known for his novels like "It" and "The Shining," and Alfred Hitchcock, famous for his suspenseful films such as "Psycho." The genre has a long history, dating back to ancient folklore and evolving through various cultural influences.