A History of Horror, Fear, and the Uncanny

Take a step—if you dare—into the shadows and the story of our primal fascination with fear, terror, and the macabre.

This comprehensive and creepily illustrated guide explores the dark and eerie landscapes of horror down the centuries and around the world—from prehistoric death rituals and early monster myths to modern manifestations of the subject in art, literature, and film.

Discover how horror has evolved through the ages, beginning with the ancient visions of a hellish underworld. Encounter terrifying figures like Medusa and the Babylonian demon Pazuzu. Tread carefully through the medieval world, where a fear of the unknown stoked apocalyptic terror around the Black Death and gave rise to the demonology of the Malleus Maleficarum.

Delve into the folklore that gave birth to iconic creatures of the night—from vampires and werewolves to the Japanese Kappa water demon and the cannibalistic Wendigo of Indigenous American lore—many of which still haunt our dreams to this day. Witness the emergence of Gothic literature, with the terrifying and genre-defining works of authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley, and learn how the 20th century saw a new wave of terror unleashed through silent films, Expressionist art, and the emergence of horror cinema—from gruesome “body horror” movies to the social commentaries of films like Get Out.

Whether you’re a dedicated horror aficionado or a curious newcomer, this book is the ultimate guide to the subject. Prepare yourself for a thrilling—and chilling—journey into the heart of darkness.