1. Style and Form:
Each genre has distinct stylistic and formal characteristics. This includes elements such as narrative structure, language use, tone, point of view, and thematic content. For example, comedies typically have humorous dialogue and upbeat tones, while horror stories rely on suspense and fear-inducing imagery.
2. Artistic conventions and tropes:
Genres often follow certain conventions and tropes that have become associated with them over time. These can include recurring characters, settings, and plot devices. For instance, detective novels often feature an enigmatic detective solving a mystery, while fantasy genres frequently involve magical worlds, mythical creatures, and heroic quests.
3. Themes and Subject Matter:
Genres often explore specific themes and subject matter. For example, science fiction often delves into technology and futuristic concepts, while historical fiction focuses on events and settings from the past. Identifying the central themes and topics within a work can provide clues to its genre.
4. Cultural Context:
Genres also reflect the cultural and societal context in which they are produced. They may respond to contemporary issues, social norms, or historical events. Understanding the cultural background and influences on a work can shed light on its genre classification.
5. Audience and Reception:
Genres are shaped by their intended audience and the reception they receive. The target audience's expectations and preferences influence the style, tone, and content of a work. Similarly, the critical reception and public response to a work can impact its categorization within a genre.
It's important to note that genre classifications can be subjective and there can be overlaps and variations within and between genres. Genres can change and evolve over time, with new sub-genres emerging and existing categories being redefined or repurposed.