Well, in TV Tropes Ghost Stories, you often find the 'Unfinished Business' trope. Ghosts are usually there because they have something left undone in their past lives. There's also the 'Ghostly Guardian' trope, where a ghost protects a certain place or person. For example, a ghost might protect an old family home from being demolished. The 'Cold Spot' is another, which is a physical manifestation of a ghost's presence as a significantly colder area in a room.
They use elements like the 'Eerie Silence' trope. When there's a sudden lack of all sound, it gives a sense of unease. Also, the 'Flickering Lights' trope is common. The erratic lighting creates a spooky mood.
Some common tropes in ghost stories include the presence of a cursed object. This object can bring misfortune or be a portal for the ghosts to enter the living world. Another trope is the time - related one, such as a ghost that haunts a particular time of day or year. For example, a ghost might be seen every midnight on the anniversary of its death. There's also the trope of the psychic or medium who can sense the presence of ghosts and communicate with them, adding an element of mystery to the story.
One common trope could be the 'Underdog Triumphs'. In many Dark Duel Stories, the protagonist who seems to be at a great disadvantage at the start of the duel manages to turn the tables and win in the end. This adds an element of excitement and inspiration to the story.
Tropes in ghost stories heighten the horror in multiple ways. For instance, the trope of the unseen presence. Just knowing that there's something there, but not being able to see it, makes people feel on edge. The trope of the cold chill that often accompanies a ghost's presence also adds to the horror. It's a physical manifestation that something otherworldly is near. And the use of tropes like the ghostly footsteps can build suspense. As the sound gets closer, the fear intensifies.
One common trope could be the redemption arc. Often in Christmas stories, a character who has been mean or self - centered has a change of heart during the Christmas season. Another might be the family reunion trope, where family members come together despite past differences. And the gift - giving trope is also prevalent, showing the spirit of giving during Christmas.
One common trope is the 'Costume Porn', where the detailed and accurate period costumes are a major draw. For example, in shows like 'Downton Abbey', the elaborate dresses and suits add to the authenticity and visual appeal. Another is the 'Fish out of Water' trope, like a modern - minded character being thrust into a historical setting and having to adapt. This can create interesting character arcs and comedic or dramatic situations.
One common trope is the 'Christmas Special' trope. 'A Christmas Story' is a classic example of a story centered around the Christmas season, with all the associated elements like Christmas decorations, presents, and family gatherings. It also has the 'Nostalgia' trope, as it often makes viewers remember their own childhood Christmases. Another is the 'Kid Hero' trope, with Ralphie being the main character who goes through various adventures in the story.
Another great one is the 'Lost in Translation' trope. In some bedtime stories, characters might find themselves in a strange land where they don't understand the language or the customs. This can lead to comical situations, like misinterpreting signs or gestures. It also allows for a lot of character growth as they learn to adapt and communicate in this new environment.
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.