Exploring Genre Fluidity. The Marriage of Horror and Comedy in 'Good Omens' and Beyond

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Seminar paper from the year 2021 in the subject English Language and Literature Studies - Literature, grade: 1, 7, University of Constance, language: English, abstract: This study focuses on the exploration and intersection of genres in literary works and their adaptations, as exemplified by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's novel and TV series "Good Omens". The paper questions existing genre boundaries and demonstrates how the intentional transgression of these confines broadens creative space, leading to extraordinary works. In the specific case of "Good Omens", the successful melding of the seemingly contradictory genres of horror and comedy is analyzed. The aim of this paper is to understand how the authors effectively utilize genre conventions and tropes of both horror and comedy, thereby creating a unique literary piece that cannot strictly be assigned to one genre. The first part of the paper focuses on the differences and similarities of horror and comedy and illuminates the theory and practice of both genres. The second part applies these theories to "Good Omens", examining how horror and humor are used and intertwined in the work.