Cosmic horror is a subgenre of horror fiction that emphasizes the insignificance of humanity in the vastness of the universe. It often features ancient, powerful beings or entities that exist beyond human understanding, leading to feelings of dread and existential fear. This genre challenges the notion of human agency, suggesting that there are forces far greater than ourselves. Key figures in cosmic horror include writers like H.P. Lovecraft, whose works often explore themes of forbidden knowledge and the fragility of sanity. The stories typically involve protagonists who encounter these incomprehensible beings, resulting in a profound sense of helplessness and despair.