Here's why:
* Supernatural Elements: While the story doesn't explicitly involve ghosts or demons, the narrator's obsession with the old man's eye creates a sense of the uncanny and unnatural, blurring the lines between reality and delusion.
* Atmosphere of Dread and Terror: The story is filled with a palpable sense of dread and suspense, created by the narrator's escalating paranoia and the gruesome details of the crime.
* Dark and Gloomy Setting: Although the setting is not explicitly described, the story's atmosphere evokes a dark and claustrophobic environment that heightens the feeling of unease.
* Psychological Focus: The story delves into the psychological state of the narrator, exploring themes of obsession, guilt, and madness. This focus on the internal world of the character is a characteristic of Gothic literature.
While "The Tell-Tale Heart" exhibits many elements of Gothic horror, it also shares aspects with other genres, such as:
* Psychological Thriller: The story focuses on the psychological torment and internal conflict of the narrator, making it a thrilling and suspenseful read.
* Crime Fiction: The story revolves around a murder, albeit one driven by a warped psychological motive rather than typical criminal intent.
Ultimately, "The Tell-Tale Heart" transcends a single genre, drawing on elements of Gothic horror, psychological thriller, and crime fiction to create a chilling and disturbing masterpiece.