In mermaid horror stories, the mermaid's habitat is a key element. It's usually a place full of danger and the unknown, such as a sunken ship graveyard or a hidden underwater grotto filled with strange and menacing sea creatures. Their physical abilities also play a role. They can swim at incredible speeds, making it impossible for humans to escape. And their allure, which is different from the positive allure in regular mermaid stories, is more of a trap. It's like a false beauty that hides their true, malevolent nature. Humans are often attracted by this false charm, only to find out too late the horror that awaits them.
Another theme is the mermaid's connection to the unknown and the deep sea. The deep sea is often seen as a place full of mystery and danger in these novels, and mermaids are part of that. For example, mermaids might be guardians of some ancient and evil power hidden in the ocean depths. They will attack anyone who gets too close to this power. This creates a sense of horror as humans are often portrayed as being curious but ignorant of the real danger.
A common element is often a magical object like a shell or an amulet. For example, in many stories, it's the touch of a special item that triggers the transformation.
One common element is the use of a spooky setting like an old, abandoned house or a dark forest. Another is the presence of a menacing antagonist, such as a vampire or a serial killer. Also, horror stories often build suspense through things like strange noises or unexplained events.
Supernatural entities like ghosts, vampires or demons often appear in horror stories. They bring an element of the unknown and the unbeatable. Their powers are beyond human understanding, which scares us. For instance, a ghost that can pass through walls and cause harm to the living.
One common element is the underwater world. It's usually described in great detail, like the colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and the gentle sway of seaweed. Another is the mermaid herself, often beautiful and kind - with a long, flowing tail. Dreams are also common. Mermaids in bedtime stories often dream about things like visiting the human world or having special powers.
The idea of the Little Mermaid losing her voice can be seen as a horror element. She gives up such an important part of herself for a chance at love with the prince. Also, the sea witch's deal is quite terrifying. She has to endure great pain when getting her legs, like feeling as if she's walking on knives. And in some darker interpretations, the possibility of the prince never loving her back and her turning into sea foam is a tragic and somewhat horror - like end.
Love is a common theme. Just like in the story of Ariel, she fell in love with a human prince which led to her going on an adventure on land. Another theme is friendship. Mermaids often make friends with other sea creatures, like how Luna made friends with all the sea animals while helping the lost fish. And heroism is also a theme. Pearl showed heroism when she saved the sailors and their ship.
In old mermaid stories, a common theme is transformation. Mermaids can transform from their fish - tailed form to a human - like form, usually through some kind of magic or deal. This transformation often comes with a price, like in 'The Little Mermaid' where she has to give up her voice. Another theme is the power of love. Love between a mermaid and a human is a central theme in many old stories, which can lead to great adventures and sometimes tragic endings.
One common element is the unexpected. Like in the story of the dress ripping, no one expects their dress to just come off like that. Another is the public nature of the event. Most of these stories happen in front of other people, which makes it more embarrassing and gives it that horror - like feel. Also, often there is a sense of loss of control, like when you can't stop sweating or farting in public.
Dark and gloomy settings are very common. Whether it's a mist - covered cemetery or a dilapidated old mansion, these places set the mood for horror. Supernatural elements are also prevalent. Be it demons, vampires, or witches, they bring an element of otherworldliness. Moreover, there is usually a protagonist who is either drawn into the horror against their will or is trying to fight against it. In many horror origin stories, this protagonist is an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary and terrifying situations.