Gothic literature is a genre that emerged in the late 18th century, characterized by its focus on the mysterious and the supernatural. It often features dark settings, such as haunted castles or eerie landscapes, and explores themes of horror, madness, and the uncanny. Key elements include complex characters, emotional intensity, and a sense of dread. Notable works include Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Edgar Allan Poe's short stories, which exemplify the genre's fascination with the macabre and the exploration of human psychology. Gothic literature has influenced various forms of art and continues to resonate in modern storytelling.