* Horror: This is the most common classification, as ghost stories often focus on fear, suspense, and the supernatural.
* Fantasy: Some ghost stories explore fantastical worlds and creatures, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
* Mystery: When ghost stories involve solving puzzles or uncovering secrets, they can lean towards mystery.
* Romance: Ghost stories can incorporate romantic themes, with a ghost longing for a lost love or a living person falling in love with a ghost.
* Historical Fiction: Many ghost stories are set in the past, blending historical details with supernatural elements.
* Gothic: Ghost stories often feature elements of gothic literature, such as dark settings, eerie atmosphere, and themes of decay and death.
Ultimately, the genre of a ghost story can be complex and multifaceted. It's often a blend of multiple genres, making it a unique and captivating form of storytelling.