Well, one way it uses tropes for horror is through the 'haunted object' trope. Objects like the creepy doll in some episodes bring in an element of horror. The trope of the 'dark past' is also used. When the backstories of the characters and the places are revealed to be full of evil and tragedy, it makes the present - day horror seem more real. Another trope is the 'unreliable narrator'. This makes the viewers constantly question what they are being told, adding to the sense of unease and horror.
It uses the trope of isolation. By setting characters in isolated places like an old asylum or a spooky mansion, it amps up the fear factor. The trope of the unknown also plays a big role. For example, when there are unexplained noises or shadowy figures, it makes the audience feel uneasy.
American Horror Story uses the trope of body horror quite effectively. The grotesque mutations and deformities shown in some seasons create a visceral sense of horror. It also uses the trope of psychological manipulation. Characters are often gaslighted or made to question their own sanity, which is really scary. And the trope of the 'curse' is there too. The idea that a place or a family is cursed adds to the overall horror atmosphere.
The clown in American Horror Story creates horror in several ways. Its appearance, with the exaggerated features and often grotesque makeup, is immediately off - putting. Also, its behavior is unpredictable. It might pop up suddenly, or engage in disturbing actions that shock the viewers. The clown's very existence in the show's often - dark and twisted settings adds to the overall sense of horror as it seems out of place yet menacingly present.
The use of music and sound effects is crucial. The creaking of doors, the howling of wind in the old houses, and the eerie music that plays during tense scenes all heighten the sense of horror. It makes the viewers feel like they are in the middle of the horror story themselves. Also, the plot twists and the unexpected turns in the storylines keep the audience on edge, not knowing what will come next.
It uses a lot of disturbing visuals. Like showing grotesque creatures or extremely bloody scenes. This directly shocks the viewers and makes them feel uneasy.
It uses the contrast. Christmas is associated with warmth and joy, but in this, it's turned on its head. The bright lights and decorations become sinister. For example, a twinkling Christmas tree might be the only source of light in a room where a horror event is about to occur.
The 'evil child' trope is quite prominent. Characters like Tate in the first season exhibit disturbing and malevolent behavior that defies their innocent appearance. It's a classic horror trope that American Horror Story uses effectively.
The show also makes use of the 'body horror' trope. There are many scenes that involve grotesque physical transformations or mutilations, like the various monsters and creatures that appear throughout the different seasons. It's a way to shock the audience and create a sense of unease.
One common trope is the use of creepy and elaborate settings. For example, the haunted houses in the series create a sense of dread. Another is the presence of morally ambiguous characters. These characters often walk the line between good and evil, like some of the witches in 'Coven'. Also, there's the trope of unexpected plot twists. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, the story takes a completely different turn.
American Horror Stories is an anthology series that has self - contained episodes. Each episode can be watched independently. Whereas American Horror Story has seasons that are more connected with recurring characters and overarching storylines.
Tropes create fear by playing on our existing fears and expectations. For example, the haunted house trope taps into our fear of the unknown and the spooky. We know that old, empty houses are often associated with ghosts and bad things in our cultural consciousness. So when we see this trope in a horror story, it immediately sets off that sense of unease.
Through setting. A common trope is the use of isolated locations like old mansions or haunted forests. For example, in many horror visual novels, the moment the characters enter an old, decrepit building, it immediately sets a spooky mood.