Carmilla is a story that encompasses various genres, making it a complex and multifaceted work of fiction. It is first and foremost a novella. It is also an example of Gothic literature, which generally involves an environment of fear, the threat of supernatural events, and the intrusion of the past on the present. Carmilla is firmly rooted in the Gothic tradition, featuring elements such as an eerie setting (an old castle in Austria), mysterious events, and of course the supernatural element of vampirism. Moreover, Carmilla falls into the genre of serial fiction, as it was originally published in segments in the London literary magazine The Dark Blue from 1871–1872.
The novella is also considered an early and pivotal work of vampire fiction and had a huge influence on Brian Stoker's Dracula. As a a vampire story, Carmilla explores horror and fear. The presence of Carmilla, the enigmatic and alluring vampire who preys on Laura, creates a sense of dread and suspense throughout the narrative. Le Fanu uses these elements to explore the psychological impact of the supernatural on the novella's characters.
Carmilla could also be categorized as a romance, albeit a Gothic one, as Carmilla and Laura's relationship is ambiguous and sensual. In setting up this dynamic, Le Fanu offers compelling ideas about desire and attraction. The romantic aspect of the narrative adds depth and complexity to the story, blurring the lines between horror and romance. All in all, Carmilla spans many genres, as Le Fanu seamlessly weaves romance, horror, and the supernatural to create a narrative that captivates and absorbs readers.
