What distinguishes Alfred Hitchcock as a key figure in the horror genre?

Alfred Hitchcock is recognized as a pivotal figure in the horror genre primarily due to his masterful integration of psychological themes and suspense into his films. Rather than relying solely on graphic content or supernatural elements, Hitchcock expertly navigated the intricacies of human emotions, fears, and anxieties, often making the audience complicit in the horror through his storytelling techniques. His films, such as "Psycho" and "Vertigo," delve deep into the characters’ psyches, exploring motivations and psychological turmoil, which enhances the tension and unease.

Hitchcock’s unique ability to create suspense is achieved through a meticulous construction of narrative and visual style, including techniques like the use of shadows, camera angles, and pacing. This focus on psychological tension over sheer shock value allows viewers to become more emotionally invested in the narrative, making the horror they experience deeply resonate on a personal level. Thus, it is his pioneering approach to suspense and psychological depth that solidifies Hitchcock’s status as a key figure in the horror genre.