The Gothic Legacy: How 19th-Century English Writers Shaped the Modern Horror Genre

This article explores the evolution of 19th-century English horror fiction, tracing its transformation from Gothic supernaturalism to psychological terror. It examines how key writers, including Mary Shelley, Edgar Allan Poe, Bram Stoker, and Robert Louis Stevenson, established foundational horror tropes that continue to influence modern literature and film. The study highlights the shift from external supernatural fears to internal psychological horror, demonstrating the genre’s lasting impact on contemporary storytelling. By analyzing thematic and narrative developments, this paper argues that 19th-century horror not only defined the genre but also shaped its future adaptations and cultural relevance.