Whether popular films such as Conjuring, Halloween or Scream - horror films are becoming more and more popular every year. The beginning of this widespread popularity started as early as 1913 with the creation of the first major horror movie in Germany, "The Student of Prague".1 Over the decades, there was an abrupt development in the film industry. Horror films were no longer designed solely to shock their viewers, but rather to terrify them through the use of effects. This development continues to this day, with scenes and storylines based on making them as realistic as possible. In view of this fact, obscene and at the same time provocative depictions have emerged without any form of morality or sense of guilt.2 Thus, the sole purpose of cinematic horror is to maintain the taboo.3 The reason why we as humans feel a desire to be creeped out, to be afraid or even to indulge in fear has been the subject of clear attempts to clarify for some time. Many who deal with this question assume that the main cause is the effect that is based on the reaction to what is shown. However, evolution and our role at that time also represent an important point. This seminar paper will attempt to find an answer and thus a reason for the far-reaching popularity of the horror genre. In addition, the dangers of realism in today's film industry will be explained. Various perspectives, approaches and theories will serve as a methodology to clarify the aforementioned questions. In order to convey a general understanding of exactly what aspects the genre of horror contains, it is important to go into the scenic methods it claims for itself and to show the versatility of the mode of representation. Subsequently, as an introductory part to the main question of this elaboration, an attempt is made to establish a definition of fear. Various approaches to the question of why people love to be afraid are then presented. In addition, the consequences that go hand in hand with the brutality and realism of the portrayal are presented. Finally, the insights gained from the seminar paper are evaluated and briefly summarized.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Definition of horror
- Characteristics of the horror genre
- Differentiation from other genres
- Subgenres
- Design options
- The psychology of fear
- Attempts to explain why people love to fear
- Biological view
- Admiration of suffering
- Attempts to explain why people love to fear
- Possible consequences
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This seminar paper aims to explore the growing popularity of the horror genre, particularly in film. It analyzes the reasons behind people's fascination with fear and the impact of increasing realism in horror depictions.
- The evolution and definition of horror
- The psychology of fear and the reasons behind people's enjoyment of horror
- The impact of realism and brutality in horror films
- The various subgenres and design elements of horror
- The potential consequences of increasingly graphic and realistic portrayals
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The first chapter introduces the growing popularity of horror films, tracing its history from the early 20th century. It emphasizes the shift from shock to realistic terror and the rise of provocative depictions. The second chapter explores the definition of horror, examining its linguistic and cultural origins. It discusses the evolution of horror from superstition and folk tales to contemporary media, highlighting the role of the supernatural and the influence of Romantic novels. The third chapter delves into the characteristics of the horror genre, examining its diverse subgenres and the challenges in defining it due to its constant development. It explores the use of shock, terror, and disgust as key elements of the genre, noting how horror often subverts the familiar and challenges societal norms.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This seminar paper focuses on the themes of horror, fear, realism, and the psychology of the viewer. It explores the different subgenres of horror, the historical evolution of the genre, and the impact of societal changes on its development. It also discusses the consequences of increasing brutality and the ethics of portraying violence and disturbing content in film.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Anonym (Autor:in), 2023, Cruelty and obscenity. Why people love to be afraid, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/1442758
