Well, one element is the historical context. If a ghost story is tied to a historical event or an old building with a past, it adds depth. For instance, a story about a haunted castle that was the site of a battle long ago. The idea that the spirits of the fallen soldiers might still be there is very captivating. Also, the emotional aspect of the people in the story. If they are genuinely terrified or affected in some way, it makes the story more believable and interesting.
The mystery. When we can't explain what's happening, it draws us in. For example, in a story where objects move on their own, we have no scientific way to immediately understand it, so it becomes fascinating.
The historical context. Often, true ghost stories are linked to real - life events or places. If a story is about a haunted castle with a dark past, like battles or murders that happened there, it adds depth and intrigue. For instance, the Tower of London has many ghost stories associated with its long and bloody history. People are drawn to these stories because they combine history and the supernatural.
The element of the unknown makes real ghost stories captivating. We are naturally curious about things we can't explain. When we hear about a real - life place having ghostly occurrences, it makes us wonder what could be causing it.
The strategic battles. In wars, the clever strategies used by commanders are fascinating. Such as Hannibal's crossing of the Alps to surprise the Roman army. It's these unexpected and brilliant strategies that make war stories amazing.
The history. Edinburgh has a long and often turbulent history filled with battles, plagues, and persecutions. All these events leave behind a residue of emotions and stories that can easily be turned into ghostly tales. For example, the many deaths during the plague years provide a backdrop of sorrow and mystery for ghost stories.
The element of the unknown makes them captivating. In real horror stories, we are faced with things that defy our normal understanding of the world. It gives us a thrill because it makes us wonder what could be out there that we don't know about.
The mystery. We don't really know if ghosts exist, so when we hear a story, it makes us wonder. It's like a puzzle that can't be easily solved.
It's the element of the unknown. We don't know for sure what lies beyond death, and these stories in 'the real ghost stories' explore those possibilities. They are often based on real - life experiences or at least what people claim to be real - life experiences, which makes them more engaging.
The atmosphere. Dark, spooky settings like old mansions or graveyards create a sense of unease yet also a place where this unique love can exist. The contrast between the cold, ghostly presence and the warmth of love makes the story really captivating.
One element is the triumph over adversity. When someone overcomes great difficulties like poverty or illness, it gives hope to others. For example, J.K. Rowling who was a single mother on welfare when she started writing Harry Potter. Now she is one of the most successful authors in the world.
The characters' reactions also add to the fun. When people overreact to what they think is a ghost, it can be hilarious. For instance, in a story, a man saw a 'ghostly face' in his window at night. He screamed and ran out of the house, only to find out later that it was his own reflection in a dirty window with a strange pattern that made it look spooky. His extreme reaction is what makes the story funny.