Witches have long been part of myth and legend, appearing in various forms across cultures throughout history. The concept of witches has evolved over time, but common themes and characteristics often persist. In many ancient societies, witches were associated with nature and the spiritual realm. They were seen as powerful beings with the ability to harness supernatural forces and manipulate the elements. Witches were often believed to have the ability to cast spells, brew potions, and communicate with spirits. Throughout the Middle Ages, witches became associated with malevolence and evil.
8. Banshee (Irish)
Her narrative shift into a devious and manipulative witch is likely fueled by the Christian prejudice towards a non-religious woman healer with great powers. From the shape-shifting seductress to the pioneer of modern magic, these extraordinary ladies made their indelible mark by stepping out of the status quo.
Throughout the Middle Ages, witches became associated with malevolence and evil. The concept of witchcraft was heavily influenced by Christian beliefs, and witches were often depicted as servants of the devil. This led to widespread persecution and the infamous witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries, resulting in the execution of thousands of people, mostly women, accused of practicing witchcraft.
20 Mythological Witches, Spooks, and Creepy Creatures Perfect for Halloween
In the spirit of spooky season, the most wonderful time of the year, I thought I’d delve into the folklore and spooky tales of mythology and ancient cultures and see what I could find. Witches, ghosts, vampires, werewolves and other shapeshifters, skeletons, and all things magical and creepy are the inspiration behind this Halloween-themed post.
There are legends, folktales, and myths all over the world about magical or terrifying beings, creatures, and people. Really, this list could go on forever.
Instead, though, I’ll keep it to 20 mythical monsters, witches, and spooky spirits that will inspire all the Halloween vibes.
Hecate is the Greek goddess of magic, witchcraft, witches, and roads and crossroads (crossroads as in “the place where decisions must be made” and where you can look between past and future (Sweetwater Press.)) She was also what’s known as a “triple goddess,” in that she appears as maiden, mother, and crone, three female representations that show up a lot in magic (as does the number 3.) In this form she sometimes even had power over life and death.
2. Morrigan (Celtic/Irish)
Morrigan is the Irish goddess of war and death, but she is known for transforming into a crow or a raven, birds often associated with magic and Halloween. Though not a goddess of magic, she is also known as the queen of witches and shapeshifters, demons, and spirits.
3. Heka (Egyptian)
Heka is the Egyptian god of magic, but as the ancient Egyptians believed in the power of magic, especially that of healing, “heka” is also the energy/personification/force of magic itself. There were many other Egyptian gods and goddesses associated with magic, such as Isis or Horus, but Heka basically is magic.
4. Strigoi (Romanian)
Strigoi are vampiric creatures of Romanian folklore, if not the Romanian version of vampires. They are undead humans, or sometimes spirits, that need blood to sustain them, and have certain abilities, such as shapeshifting and invisibility.
5. Baba Yaga (Slavic/Russian)
If you like the story of Hansel and Gretel, then Baba Yaga is totally up your alley. She’s an old crone witch who lives isolated in a forest, in a house that stands on four chicken legs that allow it to move, and surrounded by a fence made from the bones and flaming skulls of people who have come to her house and failed her tests. She’s actually quite complicated, but known to be wise and helpful, and also have the gift of prophecy, while also known to devour people for various reasons. A popular folk tale involving her is that of Baba Yaga and Vasilisa.
6. Morgan le Fay (Arthurian)
There are many versions of Morgan le Fay in Arthurian legend. Sometimes she is known as the sister of King Arthur, sometimes as the Lady of the Lake (or a sea goddess), sometimes good, and sometimes evil. Whatever the case she is usually known as a witch, and sometimes even a shapeshifter; in one story, she heals the knight Yvain with an ointment, in another she nearly kills Arthur.
7. Merlin (Arthurian)
I guess I can’t mention Morgan without mentioning Merlin—but, we all know who Merlin is right? Faithful wizard to King Arthur? (Though I should point out, he also gives Arthur some extremely terrible advice.) Merlin actually has some pretty interesting adventures in Arthurian legend, and while he is one of the “good guys” in good vs. evil, he also does some stuff that isn’t so great, and depending on the version of the story of Merlin and Vivien, he can actually be kind of creepy.
8. Banshee (Irish)
The banshee is a shrieking, wailing, female spirit whose cries herald impending death, usually that of a family member. She can appear as a young maiden or an old woman, or sometimes even a faerie woman. In some accounts, she sings a lament when someone is about to die.
According to Jewish mythology, Lilith was the first woman created by God, before Eve. She was also much maligned as a baby-stealing demon of the night whose dangerously liberated sexuality led men astray. Like Hecate, Lilith is associated with the darkness, the moon, and spirituality. Her refusal to be subservient to Adam got her kicked out of Paradise and forced to have 100 demon babies for each day she didn’t agree to return (she never did). Because of this fierce independence and unapologetic sexuality, Lilith is considered the first feminist goddess.
In more modern times, witches have experienced a significant shift in perception. With the rise of neopaganism and the resurgence of interest in witchcraft, witches are now often portrayed as empowered individuals in touch with their own spirituality. There is a growing acceptance and celebration of witchcraft and its connections to nature, feminist ideologies, and personal empowerment. The portrayal of witches in popular media, such as books, films, and TV shows, also plays a significant role in shaping public perception. From the green-skinned, pointy-hatted witches of "The Wizard of Oz" to the teenage witches of "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," witches continue to captivate our imaginations and inspire various interpretations. In conclusion, witches have a rich and complex history in myth and legend. While their portrayal and perception may have changed over time, the enduring fascination with witches suggests that their significance and allure will continue to captivate us for years to come..
Reviews for "The Folklore and Legends of Witchcraft in India"
1. John123 - 2 stars
I found "Witches in myth and legend" to be quite disappointing. The book lacked depth and failed to provide sufficient historical context. It felt more like a collection of random stories rather than a cohesive exploration of witches in mythology. The author's writing style was also quite dry and failed to engage my interest. Overall, I was left wanting more substance and meaningful analysis from this book.
2. Booklover12 - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Witches in myth and legend," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The book was poorly organized, making it difficult to follow the progression of ideas. The content lacked depth and originality, as it mostly rehashed well-known myths and legends without offering any new insights. Additionally, the writing style was rather dry and lacked the spark to captivate my attention. If you're looking for a comprehensive and engaging exploration of witches in mythology, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
3. JaneDoe2021 - 1 star
"Witches in myth and legend" was a complete letdown for me. The book oversimplified complex legends and failed to provide any substantial analysis. It felt more like a surface-level exploration that barely scratched the surface of the topic. The writing style was also quite dull, lacking the creativity and passion needed to bring these mythical beings to life. I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a deep and meaningful understanding of witches in mythology.
4. ReviewerGirl - 2 stars
I was quite disappointed by "Witches in myth and legend." The book lacked a clear focus and failed to provide any new or intriguing information. The stories felt repetitive and often veered off into irrelevant tangents. Additionally, the writing style was monotonous, making it difficult to maintain interest throughout the book. If you're looking for an engaging and informative exploration of witches in mythology, I would suggest looking for other options.