The theme of the power of the supernatural is common. In mythos, gods and goddesses possess extraordinary powers. In horror stories, vampires have the power of immortality and super strength. Also, the idea of a cursed or doomed place is seen in both. Think of the ancient tombs in Egyptian mythos that are often filled with curses, and in horror, there are places like the Overlook Hotel in 'The Shining' which is haunted and seems to doom those who enter. Transformation is another theme. In mythos, we have tales of humans turning into animals or vice versa. In horror, there are werewolves and other shapeshifters.
They influence modern culture in various ways. In the gaming industry, many games use horror and mythos elements. Role - playing games might have characters based on mythological heroes or monsters. This not only entertains players but also educates them about different mythologies. In music, some metal bands use horror and mythos themes in their lyrics and album art. It gives their music a unique and often dark and edgy feel. Moreover, in architecture, some buildings are designed with elements inspired by horror or mythos, like the gargoyles on cathedrals which were originally meant to ward off evil spirits from mythos.
Family crossover makes the horror more personal. When it's your family involved, it hits closer to home. It's scarier to think that the people you love and trust could be affected by the Cthulu mythos.
Some of the best Cthulhu Mythos stories include 'Pickman's Model'. It's a story that plays on the idea of art and the grotesque, as the main character discovers the disturbing paintings of Pickman. 'The Whisperer in Darkness' is also a great one. It has a lot of elements of paranoia and the discovery of hidden, alien entities. In addition, 'The Haunter of the Dark' is worth mentioning. It builds on the atmosphere of dread and the presence of an ancient, evil force in an abandoned church.
Another great one could be 'At the Mountains of Madness'. It takes the reader on an Antarctic adventure where the characters uncover ancient and dreadful secrets related to the Cthulhu Mythos. It's full of Lovecraft's signature atmosphere of dread and the idea that there are things in the universe that man was not meant to know. It also gives a lot of background about the Elder Things which are important in the Mythos.
I also recommend 'The Shadow over Innsmouth'. This story has a great atmosphere. It follows a man who visits Innsmouth and gradually uncovers the town's dark and fish - like secrets. The idea of a town with a hidden and disturbing past, and the presence of the Deep Ones, makes it a very engaging Cthulhu Mythos story.
Mythos Fiction is a genre that often incorporates elements of mythology into fictional stories. It can draw from various mythologies like Greek, Norse, or Egyptian. For example, many modern fantasy novels use mythological creatures such as centaurs or mermaids which are from Greek and other mythologies. This genre allows authors to create new and exciting worlds by building on the rich tapestry of existing myths.
One of the best first Cthulhu Mythos stories is 'The Call of Cthulhu' by H.P. Lovecraft. It's a classic that really introduces the essence of the Mythos. It has this great build - up of mystery and horror, leading the reader into a world of ancient, malevolent beings and cults.
One interesting cthulhu mythos fanfiction could be about a modern - day detective who stumbles upon an ancient cult related to Cthulhu. He slowly uncovers the dark secrets of the cult as he delves deeper into the mystery, with each discovery leading him closer to the brink of madness.