Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Gothic fiction?

The focus on romance and happy endings does not align with the characteristics of Gothic fiction. In fact, Gothic fiction is often known for its dark themes, exploring horror, the supernatural, and psychological torment rather than romantic ideals. The genre typically evokes feelings of dread and explores the darker aspects of human nature and existence, which often leads to ambiguous or tragic endings instead of the conventional happy conclusion found in romance narratives.

In contrast, the hallmark elements of Gothic fiction include supernatural occurrences that heighten the sense of fear and mystery, and settings that often feature old castles, graveyards, and other eerie landscapes that contribute to the overall creepy atmosphere. Additionally, while Gothic fiction can include elements of romance, it frequently does so as a means of creating tension or tragedy rather than aiming for positive resolutions.