Well, secrecy is often a part of it. The doctor might be hiding some dark practice in a hidden part of their clinic or hospital. Also, a disregard for human life is common. They may see patients as mere subjects for their own twisted purposes rather than as people in need of care. For example, a doctor might keep a patient alive just to continue torturous experiments instead of trying to actually cure them.
One common element is often an old medical facility like a hospital or an asylum. These places carry a lot of emotional and sometimes tragic history which gives a good backdrop for a ghost story. Another element is the doctor's past actions, like a failed operation or an experimental treatment gone wrong. And of course, the apparition of the doctor, usually in a white coat or medical gown, often seen in the middle of some medical - related activity that was left unfinished or ended in disaster.
Well, often you'll find the cold, snowy German winter as a backdrop which adds to the spooky atmosphere. Old family heirlooms or antiques that are associated with Christmas can play a part too. Maybe an old nutcracker that comes to life in a terrifying way or a hand - made Christmas doll that has some sort of evil within it. And of course, there are the lonely, isolated locations like a forest cabin or an abandoned churchyard that can be the setting for the horror to unfold during the Christmas season.
One common theme is the supernatural. For example, in stories like 'The Sandman', there are otherworldly beings causing fear. Another theme is the dark side of human nature, as seen in tales where characters make bad decisions or pacts, like in 'Faust'. Madness is also a theme, where the characters' minds are affected by the horror around them.
Another element is improper prescribing. Doctors may prescribe drugs without considering all the factors like allergies or other medications the patient is taking. This can result in bad reactions, like in some horror stories where patients end up much worse off after taking the prescribed medications.
The most common elements? Well, negligence for sure. Doctors not paying enough attention, like forgetting to check for important symptoms. Then there's overconfidence. Some doctors think they know it all and don't double - check things. And of course, the horror of miscommunication. When doctors use complex medical jargon and patients don't understand what's going on with their health.
Another element is the German sense of humor itself. Germans can be very dry and matter - of - fact in their humor. So, a story where a German tells a joke in a very straightforward way, which might seem odd to non - Germans at first but then makes them laugh when they get it. For example, a German making a pun about a local landmark in a deadpan manner.
Often, miscommunication plays a big part. Maybe the doctor doesn't explain things clearly to the patient, leading to a lot of confusion and horror. Also, there can be cases where the doctor's attitude is too casual about a serious condition of the patient.
Injury or illness can be a part of it. For example, if a German shepherd gets a serious injury that limits its mobility or ability to do normal dog things. It can lead to the dog being depressed. They are active and energetic dogs by nature, so when that's taken away, it's very sad.
One common element is old castles or mansions. These are often the settings for German ghost stories as they have a long history and are full of mystery. Another element is a sense of injustice. Usually, the ghosts are the result of someone being wronged in the past, like the White Lady.
One common element is the setting. Often these stories are set in places like old bunkers, battlefields, or former military bases. These are areas where there was great turmoil and death during the war. Another common element is the appearance of the soldier. They usually appear in their old military uniforms, which are often tattered. For example, in many stories, the ghost is described as having a helmet and a rifle. Also, a sense of unease and coldness is always present. It seems like the ghost's presence brings a chill to the air, both literally and metaphorically.