The Conundrum of Horror

The “Paradox of Horror” as spoken of by Noel Carroll and discussed throughout this blog simply asks “Why do we enjoy reading and viewing ‘horrible’ subject matter, when in reality we do not wish to encounter such things?” While studying in London and Dublin our class had the unique opportunity to discuss many different theories amongst ourselves (affirmed horror enthusiasts). There are of course many answers to this question. I would like to present three of my own to share and discuss.

First, we enjoy horror novels, movies, etc. because it is one of the only mediums by which we can experience grave and gory situations without feeling guilty or remorseful. For example, when one drives past a terrible accident on the interstate they cannot help but stare at the shattered remains of the vehicles and attempt to view as much as possible. However, after passing the site, feelings of guilt for having stared and empathy for those involved arise. Yet, we seem to have no problem viewing a far worse accident in a movie theater. Murder, decapitation, even animal cruelties are all things we have read and seen in the horror genre, but would be discomforted to speak of in any real life context. It allows one to say “If it’s fake, it’s ok”. Because, isn’t it?

Secondly, the horror genre is one of the few ways to experience fear with no threat of real danger. It is our jack in the box to wind and wind again, then put away whenever we desire. While fear is a very commonly felt emotion (e.g. fear of failure or loss), “horrific” fear in real life comes with the threat of imminent danger. Through horror films and books one can easily be transported to the most dangerous of places in the safety of their own home. The human tendency to desire the things of less abundance may also be applied to this horrific type of fear. It is enticing to us because we do not feel it very often. The horror genre provides the ideal and safe venue to indulge this desire.

Finally, we enjoy horror because we like to see how other human beings will react in horrific situations. We then compare these reactions to how we ourselves would have reacted. “Don’t go in there!!!!.........(Shaking head) I told her not to go in there.” We are often left wondering what we would do in the same terrible situation. Because we do not often have to make “life or death” choices, to watch others do so is appealing. It is tempting to feel as though we are actually learning how to survive these horrific situations by reading and watching others experiences. While we may never have to drive a stake through a vampire, one may feel as though they are more prepared to escape a desolate cabin after watching a few horror flicks. Viewing the reactions of others in horrific situations causes us to explore and question ourselves. We are again drawn to horror by placing ourselves in horror.