Not so Great Love Stories in Literature

As a young woman, I am well aware of how many love stories tend to be seen as great until you think about them a bit. There are plenty of love stories like this in classic literature which are celebrated romances we wish we could model our lives around. Yet, when we think about them a bit, we realize that these stories pertain to rather unhealthy relationships as well as serve us as a guide of what not to do. Then again, many of these don’t end happily and sometimes it was the author’s intent to show that they are unhealthy but the fandom just doesn’t listen. So without further adieu here are some famous literary love stories that aren’t really as lovey-dovey as they’re cracked up to be. And no, I’m not going to include anything by Nicholas Sparks or Twilight because they don’t really seem to qualify as literature to me. Still, there are good literary romances with the main characters engaging in healthier relationships as exemplified by Jane Austen. I mean Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett may be flawed but at least they manage to grow up and live happily ever after.

1. Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

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What you remember: Let’s see boy meets girl despite the two being from feuding families and secretly marry. Later on, girl’s cousin kills boy’s friend and boy kills girl’s cousin, then skips town. Girl engages in dangerous plot to avoid an arranged marriage set up by her parents consisting of faking her own death, which leads boy to poison himself. Girl discovers this and stabs herself. Families reconcile, the End.

What you forget: Sure this is seen as one of the greatest love stories of all time. However, aside from Romeo killing Juliet’s cousin bit, you also don’t know that Romeo also kills the guy Juliet’s parents wanted her to marry while the latter was putting flowers at Juliet’s “tomb” (though to be fair, Paris was going to arrest him for breaking exile and into her tomb). Still, Paris isn’t really a bad guy even if his biggest crime in the whole play is simply not being Romeo. Oh, and shortly before he meets Juliet, Romeo was in love with at least one other girl who didn’t care for him. That being said Romeo isn’t the kind of guy you’d want your daughter to date, let alone marry. Not to mention, sure Juliet may be in love with Romeo but you can also argue that she’s taking up with Romeo to rebel against her parents (over an arranged marriage but still) and she’s supposed to be 13 for God’s sake. You can also argue that the whole romance between Romeo and Juliet may be the result of forbidden fruit or intensified infatuation. Not only that, but much of the action in this play takes place in the span of less than a week. Yes, they marry after a few days of meeting each other. Yet, this doesn’t stop people from thinking that this play is the way to have a relationship despite that this play could’ve been used for an episode of The Wire. I mean they did a musical adaptation with this involving street gangs. Also, they both die and perhaps the moral of this could point that it shows how love at first sight and star crossed lovers ideas don’t really work out in real life. Also, that getting into an irresponsible relationship can end very badly. Not to mention, don’t force your daughter into a relationship with a person she may not even like or at least while she’s 13 or she might get into this kind of shit and don’t engage into meaningless violent family feuds.

2. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

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What you remember: Other than it being the result of the “Lost Cause” school of history which is known for being rather racist, here’s the following. Southern belle holds on to an old infatuation for years to a guy who doesn’t see her as no more than a friend as well as marries his cousin. All the while when she comes under the affections of a much older, scandalous, and handsomer gentleman who’s willing to fight for a hopeless cause in her honor as well as wait a very long time to get together with her even if it means putting up with her marrying a brother-in-law o the guy she’s infatuated with and her sister’s fiancé. Their relationship is a disaster and disintegrates after the death of their daughter. Girl doesn’t realize that she loved this older man until very close to the end which is too late.

What you forget: Seriously, I do love this story, honestly. However, the relationship between Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler was based on Margaret Mitchell’s first marriage to Red Upshaw who was an abusive drunk and a bootlegger with a violent temper. If you want to know why Scarlett and Rhett’s marriage turns out as bad as it did, look no further than Margaret Mitchell’s own life. The scene where Rhett takes up Scarlett in an act of questionable consent was based on an incident that happened to Mitchell. Also, at the beginning, Scarlett is 16 while Rhett is 35, which is kind of creepy but not by 19th century standards (though it may show that Rhett prefers women he could control). Still, whether you like her or hate her, Scarlett O’Hara is one of the more realistic examples of a Southern Belle in literature, especially when it comes to Reconstruction, which forced many women of her status in unsuitable jobs and marriages. Not only that, but while Scarlett may be a scheming and manipulative bitch, she can be quite naïve and innocent about the really nasty stuff going on behind closed doors like Ashley Wilkes being in the KKK for instance (this from the book I kid you not). Still, Scarlett’s fatal flaw in the whole story is her emotional immaturity which had a lot to do with her being more or less trained not to care about people and merely becoming a pretty doll supposed to attract husbands as well as devoid of personal emotions and wishes. As a result, despite being very smart, her amazing intellect is permanently twisted and stunted. Also, she’s not really in love with Ashley but with what he represents such as the old South, Tara, and her teenage years and doesn’t seem to allow time to properly grieve for the end of an era and accept that it’s gone. And because she’s so wrapped up in a delusion, she’s basically incapable of having an adult relationship with the man she loves the most (Rhett) and becoming a mother to her children (she has 3 in the book). Also, you have to know that sure Rhett may be a kind of dashingly handsome man as well as loveable rogue, yet he pushes Scarlett down the stairs, possibly rapes her, co-owns a brothel, spoils Bonnie rotten which leads to her death, and is verbally abusive. Not to mention, for a guy from the South, Rhett seems to be completely oblivious that Scarlett’s love for Ashley is more out of emotional immaturity than anything. Yet, at least I have to give kudos that Gone with the Wind doesn’t pretend that Scarlett and Rhett are utterly emotionally selfish people and their relationship is basically dysfunctional. But you don’t really seem to care.

3. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

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What you remember: Orphaned boy named Heathcliff is brought to Wuthering Heights and becomes an inseparable friendship/romance with Catherine Earnshaw which ensues in an all-consuming passion. Yet, they are driven apart due to her brother making him a slave and her desires for social mobility which drive Heathcliff to leave Wuthering Heights in bitterness. When he returns, he finds Catherine married to an Edgar Linton, yet they still love each other despite all odds and her death leaves Heathcliff truly devastated.

What you forget: Let’s face it, Heathcliff is a complete asshole who only returns determined to crush entirely those who thwarted his one chance of happiness. This includes swindling control under the now alcoholic Hindley’s nose as well as seducing Edgar’s sister Isabella and later treating her in a cruel and abusive fashion once married and generally scheming to control everything belonging to both those guys. And Catherine’s death (from childbirth in the novel) does absolutely nothing to redeem him but only extends his vendetta to not only destroy his rivals but also their kids. Not only that, but though Heathcliff and Catherine’s relationship is passionate, it’s also unhealthy, twisted, and intensely destructive. It also leads to nothing but ruin to them and almost everyone around them. Not to mention, in the end it drives Catherine to insanity and perhaps destroys her identity and personality. Not only that but she marries nice guy Edgar Linton all because she finds Heathcliff “degrading” and that she wants to go to parties, be rich, or have pretty things. In short, she’s a gold digger who ends up with the right guy for all the wrong reasons. Still, the fact that Heathcliff is a possible sociopath who no girl would want to have (as exemplified with his marriage to Isabella, yeah), this doesn’t stop legions of teenage girls and women seeing him as a romantic hero. And the Sir Laurence Olivier portrayal as well as Stephanie Meyer’s trying to glorify the kind of relationship in Twilight Emily Bronte denounced in her book don’t help either. Seriously, a guy like Heathcliff deserves a restraining order or jail.

4. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

What you remember: Married aristocratic woman embarks on a passionate romance and later shacks up with a young officer she just met which leads to family dysfunction, slut shaming, sacrificing basically everything to be with each other, and suicide by train.

What you forget: Don’t get me wrong, Anna Karenina does contain a great love story but unfortunately, it’s not the one you remember. Still, despite Anna being seen as a good kind woman yet with an impulsive streak, I never really cared for her. In fact, I kind of found her pathetic, whiny, unstable, and annoying. Not only that, but despite her love for Vronsky, I don’t get the impression she wants to divorce her pious husband either mostly so she could see their son. Sure Anna’s a victim of double standards, social conventions, as well as spending her life being expected to have no emotions or wishes of her own. Still, Anna constantly fears losing Vronsky which leads to her being quickly disappointed in him as well as totally dependent on him for emotional support. This leads to her self-destruction. I think she should’ve just gone back to Karenin who certainly would’ve forgiven her and taken her back in a heartbeat. He may be an emotionless stiff but at least he tries to do the right thing as well as willing to raise a child by his wife who’s not even his, even if it’s all for self-preservation. Also, despite his faults, you can’t blame him for being deeply upset over his wife’s affair. Vronsky by contrast is a completely self-absorbed prick who flirts with and later rejects a young woman named Kitty who experiences an emotional breakdown. He’s also quite reckless and we’re not sure whether he truly loves her or not. Nevertheless, I think the great love story here is between Kitty and Levin. Sure Levin may prefer farming and hanging out with peasants to fancy balls but he’s a decent guy who really cares about Kitty and at least suffering an emotional breakdown over Vronsky’s rejection gives her time away from home to find herself. And though they go through hardship and a lot of transitions, they are nevertheless happy. Then again, the Tolstoys’ marriage was a lot like this.

5. Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux

The Phantom of the Opera and Christine in the movie

What you remember: A hideous man named Erik who’s a tortured soul, longing for compassion from another human being, is obsessed with his singing pupil Christine. Unfortunately, she’s engaged to a childhood sweetheart Raoul. So Erik basically proceeds to stalk her, kills at least two people, sabotages a chandelier, kidnaps Christine, blackmails her by threatening to kill her fiancé, and essentially forces a world-renowned opera house to put on his own self-insert fanfiction which he literally inserts himself into. Yet, he lets Christine go with Raoul to live happily ever after as soon as she kisses him.

What you forget: Mostly what I basically said in the plot thanks to the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical such as Erik being hideously ugly (and this role being played by total beefcakes and/or guys with great voices), the obsessively stalking, the killing at least two people, kidnapping Christine and blackmailing her by threatening to kill her fiancé, and the part about getting a world renown opera house to do his own self-insert fanfiction. Of course, the hideous part really isn’t that important as Erik thinks it is but even if you do feel bad for him having a terrible childhood, he’s a bastard nevertheless. Still, that doesn’t nearly get into him having a robotic torture device/death trap, saying that he owns Christine, and the fact that he gets more and more unstable as the story goes on. This guy is a psychotic, jealous, and possessive stalker toward Christine as well as a total control freak with emotional immaturity. Oh, and he also just wants Christine to be his wife so he could treat her like a living doll. Yeah, ladies, being with the Phantom wouldn’t be that great despite how much you tend to ship Christine with him in your fanfiction. You could see why she ended up with Raoul, who may not be that interesting but is a very nice guy who actually cares for her. Let’s face it, fangirls, Erik is in serious need of therapy here. Damn you, Andrew Lloyd Webber!

6. Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak

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What you remember: Historic context aside, rich guy falls in love with a raped peasant girl he saw unconscious during a party in 1905. Later he becomes a doctor and marries a girl he grew up with while girl gets together with a Socialist best known as Strelnikov. Later after World War I and during the Russian Revolution, Yuri and Lara meet up with each other again at Yuriatin and have an affair. Yuri gets abducted and forced to serve as an army physician against his will yet he shacks up with Lara when he gets back and starts writing poetry as well as conceive a lovechild. Yet, their happiness doesn’t last when Victor Komarovsky tells the two that Lara’s husband deserts his post and she must leave. Yuri later returns to Moscow and dies of a heart attack after mistaking a woman for his beloved. Their illegitimate daughter is discovered in the end.

What you forget: Yuri and Lara are very messed up people who get together as their world is falling apart. If you read the novel, Yuri not only loses his mom at 11 years old but his alcoholic dad commits suicide by train, which is witnessed by a friend. Also, he first sees Lara (in the book) when he’s about 13 and they don’t see each other again until he’s 19 in 1911 when she shoots a guy and faints at a Christmas party he attends with his foster sister and future wife. Oh, and that Lara was raped by Victor Komarovsky (who drove Yuri’s dad to suicide). Still, while Yuri may not be to blame to abandon his family (due to being kidnapped and drafted), he doesn’t seem to do anything to pursue his family after they get deported or even worried about them. Still, Yuri dumps Tonya hard despite being his foster sister, best friend, lifelong companion and confidant, wife, and mother of his two kids. All because she’s not Lara. Oh, and in the book he has kids to three different women. Not to mention, Yuri chases a woman he was infatuated with since he was a teenager and we’re not sure what Lara feels about him. Not only that, but she’s definitely in love with her husband who’s left her behind to join the Bolsheviks and was sexually abused as a teenager. Let’s just say that shacking up because your spouse is away and won’t come back doesn’t provide a good foundation for a healthy relationship, especially during the Russian Revolution. And they’re going to have a musical on this in 2015 or having their image on a wedding cake.

7. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

What you remember: Jay Gatsby has a fling with Daisy Fay before being sent off to war and carries a torch for her for the rest of his life. Though he gets rich and holds lavish parties, he still wants to win her back even though she’s now Daisy Buchanan and has a kid. Still, he enlists the help of his neighbor (and her cousin) to set the two up at his house. The two seem to hit it off and when everything seems fine and dandy, she hits a woman with a car and Gatsby takes a manslaughter rap for it. He ends up getting killed by the woman’s husband and dies in his swimming pool.

What you forget: For one, while Gatsby is a self-made man, he’s a bootlegger and a crook who left his poor dirt farmer family behind and never came back, but at least he’s a great old sport compared to the racist, philandering, hypocritical, selfish, and abusive Tom Buchanan. Still, this book might as well be called She’s Just Not That Into You. Sure Daisy may love Gatsby but she just isn’t in love with him in love enough to dump Tom for him since it might mean financial insecurity, abandoning her daughter, and the fear of being abused and controlled by Gatsby the way Tom does to her. Yeah, you could see why she won’t leave her husband even if she’s not in love with him. Also, she’s kind of depressed and plays dumb as well as careless and shallow. And it’s her reckless driving that seal Gatsby’s impending doom. Not to mention, her childhood innocence is a major character flaw in that she can’t take responsibility for herself either to better her life or change the way her actions hurt others. Still, even if Gatsby had his way he would’ve never been happy with Daisy for he expected too much from her, wanting (and perhaps forcing) her to be the perfect memory he obsessed over. Nor does he know who the real Daisy truly is. Basically Gatsby’s fatal flaw was that he wanted what he could never have and he’s in total denial when Daisy picks Tom over him and it’s obvious she won’t come back to him. Alas, that poor son of a bitch.

8. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

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What you remember: Girl has hellish childhood growing up with an abusive aunt and a boarding school of horrors. Becomes governess to a rich guy’s kid and falls in love with her boss. Boss reciprocates and they get engaged yet their wedding is cancel because they guy is still married to a mad woman in the attic. She leaves him dates another guy and goes back to find that the house burned down and the rich guy’s wife is killed. They marry and live happily ever after.

What you forget: Jane Eyre should’ve never went back to Mr. Rochester. Seriously, he’s not only several years older than her and her boss, flirts with another well-off woman just to make her jealous, gaslights and sexually harasses her, is already married to another mentally unstable woman he keeps in an attic which Jane finds out about at the altar from someone else, and asks her to become his mistress afterwards which Jane refuses. Yet, that’s all right because Jane goes back to him after Mr. Rochester goes blind in a house fire and his wife is dead. Seriously, what the fuck? If I found out that my fiance kept a mentally unstable wife in the attic while I was just seconds away from saying “I do,” I’d just go bridezilla all over the place, dump the guy, leave the altar in a spectacular angry memorable fashion, and never look back as well as perhaps use the reception for some kind of homeless dinner if I’m paying for it. Let’s just say the Disney princesses are much better role models for relationships than Jane Eyre. I mean finding out on your wedding day that your fiance keeps a mentally unstable wife in the attic is worse than cheating. Then again, she probably married him for the money and that he needs someone to take care of him.

9. Lolita by Vladamir Nabokov

What you remember: Creepy guy falls in love with pre-teen, marries the girl’s mother, and has her killed. Guy takes stepdaughter to use for his own sexual purposes as well as travel around  until she reveals she’s having an affair with another guy. Creepy guy is devastated and goes to prison (or so as he says since it’s an unreliable narrator).

What you forget: Honestly, most of us are familiar that this book isn’t really a love story (except in Humbert Humbert’s own mind as an unreliable narrator) as it is more about pedophilia and sexual abuse, but I think it’s worth mentioning since there’s a group of people who think it is and it has disturbing implications. Yet, it’s because of Humbert Humbert’s unreliable narration that some fans of this book think that young Dolores Haze is a sassy, precocious teenager who wears a lot of vintage 1950s clothes and spends a lot of time eating lollipops, sunbathing, and crushing older men. The girl in the novel is actually an average teenage girl who ends up orphaned, raped, and kidnapped. She has more in common with what many victims would have on Dateline: To Catch a Predator than anything. Yet, this doesn’t stop it from being the inspiration for Lolicon and referring to Lolita as a sexual fetish for underage girls nor does it help that actual child molesters and pedophiles consist of a good chunk of the fan base for this book. Still, it’s because we have fans who sympathize with Humbert Humbert and think this story is a beautiful tragic love story, we have people who think this story glorifies pedophilia which wasn’t Nabokov’s intentions (he wrote it to condemn pedophilia). Rather he just though his readers would be smart enough to see through Humbert Humbert’s attempts at gaining sympathy and realize what a sick, despicable, and twisted bastard he is. He was wrong and probably should’ve written the novel in third person or perhaps through Dolores Haze’s point of view.

10. The Iliad by Homer

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What you remember: Trojan prince Paris says that Aphrodite is the most beautiful goddess during an argument at a wedding so he could have ultimate love, goes to Sparta to see King Menelaus in the guise of diplomatic mission, kidnaps his wife Helen, and starts a war that goes on for 10 years.

What you forget: Say what you want about Odysseus infidelities in The Odyssey, but they were with goddesses which he couldn’t turn down and at least he was trying to get home to his beloved wife he hadn’t seen in years. Sure people may say that The Odyssey doesn’t make a good love story but it does. You can’t say the same about The Illiad in which most adaptations of the Trojan War has the relationship between Paris and Helen portrayed as such. Still, whether Helen left Sparta willingly or not is ambiguous yet it’s no denying that she has a miserable time in Troy filled with loneliness, self-distaste, and regret as well as conflicted. The Trojans hate her by the end of the war and has more respect for Priam and Hector than she does for Paris. Oh, and when Paris dies, she’s sent to be with Deiphobus but this relationship doesn’t last due to the sack of Troy and all. Still, she’s probably much happier to return to Menelaus and Sparta by the end. Paris, on the other hand, is seen by other Trojans as a philandering, cowardly jerk who’s responsible for the war who everyone wants dead. Also, he may not have been nice to Helen either. Nevertheless, I’m not sure if you can say that Paris and Helen love each other at all. Still, there are better love stories in The Illiad than between Helen and Paris which doesn’t seem much. I mean you have the marriage between Hector and Andromache (a guy who’s fighting so his son could live and his wife won’t be sold into slavery) or perhaps the relationship of Achilles and Patrolcus (if you want to see it that way but you really can’t tell with these relationships in Greek mythology. Still, Achilles took Patrolcus’ death hard).

The Wonderful World of Scarecrows

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Soon autumn will be upon us and so would Halloween. Fall is known as the harvest season and one of the most iconic images of harvest is the scarecrow, which is meant to scare birds like crows or sparrows from eating the crops. Yet, I’m sure that the critters would be frightened but a human effigy filled with straw, not. Yet they are seen as cultural icons in literature and are portrayed with different personalities. The Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz is said to have no brain (or so what he thinks) and does great choreography due to the talents of Ray Bolger. In the Kojiki from 712, the Japanese Kuebiko may no be able to walk but knows everything about the world as well as worshiped as a god of agriculture, wisdom, and scholarship, which is pretty ironic for one to sing, “If I Only Had a Brain.” Then Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Feathertop is in league with the devil and the Scarecrow is seen as a villainous character in the DC universe. Still, there are also a lot of scarecrow festivals which have people making their own straw garden figures such as in the UK since the 1990s, where it is also a significant figure in culture (especially in a nation of gardening fanatics). In this post we cover a lot of people’s fall creations of these loveable straw stuffed icons which I shall list accordingly.

1. “The hills are alive with the sound of scarecrows.”

I'm sorry but Fraulein Maria hailed from Austria not Thornhill. Still, I like how they have

I’m sorry but Fraulein Maria hailed from Austria not Thornhill. Still, I like how they have “Problem, Maria?” on her chest.

2. Hey, I didn’t know I could use one of those to water my plants.

Of course, there's no magic charm to make it animated. Yet, I think this is quite clever.

Of course, there’s no magic charm to make it animated. Yet, I think this is quite clever.

3. Well, as Bob Dylan said, “The answer my friends is blowing in the wind. The answer is blowing in the wind.”

So this is either a tribute to Bob Dylan's

So this is either a tribute to Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind,” or to Gene Kelly’s “Singin’ in the Rain.” I’ll probably go with the former because I don’t remember Gene Kelly having to cling to a lampost in that movie.

4. Oh, look it’s the Swan Princess.

Then again, this seems like a goose bride than a swan princess. Still, I do love that white dress with the feathers on it. Wonder if its creator ever wore it in her own wedding assuming it's a she.

Then again, this seems like a goose bride than a swan princess. Still, I do love that white dress with the feathers on it. Wonder if its creator ever wore it in her own wedding assuming it’s a she.

5. Of course, what would this post be without a scarecrow of Lady Gaga?

Still, I can't help but be disappointed in this scarecrow. I mean given Lady Gaga's reputation for wearing outlandish outfits, her dress is pretty tame. Perhaps her dressing up as a straw princess or a crow would've been more appropriate.

Still, I can’t help but be disappointed in this scarecrow. I mean given Lady Gaga’s reputation for wearing outlandish outfits, her dress is pretty tame. Perhaps her dressing up as a straw princess or a crow would’ve been more appropriate. The goose bride routine would’ve been perfect.

6. As Forrest Grump said, “Life is like a box of eyeballs, you never know what you’re gonna get.”

Of course, for those who don't know anything about Forrest Grump, it's a lot like Forrest Gump but with zombies. Still, stupid is as stupid does.

Of course, for those who don’t know anything about Forrest Grump, it’s a lot like Forrest Gump but with zombies. Still, stupid is as stupid does.

7. If you’re into cutesy things from Japan, then you’d certainly love this Hello Kitty scarecrow.

Still, I have to explain that it's creator said that Hello Kitty isn't actually a cat. Also, this isn't really a Hello Kitty scarecrow. Yet, I like the bamboo heart.

Still, I have to explain that it’s creator said that Hello Kitty isn’t actually a cat. Also, this isn’t really a Hello Kitty scarecrow. Yet, I like the bamboo heart.

8. Now I didn’t know that there were scarecrows into reggae music.

Still, I'm not sure if newspaper makes convincing dreadlocks. Yet, I have to admire the creator's intent on making a scarecrow that's more eco-friendly.

Still, I’m not sure if newspaper makes convincing dreadlocks. Yet, I have to admire the creator’s intent on making a scarecrow that’s more eco-friendly.

9. Hey, it’s Scarecrow Gru and his pumpkin minions from Despicable Me.

The minions from Despicable Me is a popular scarecrow subject at festivals since they're easy to make. Still, I bet the guy who did this took great advantage of early pumpkin sales and paint.

The minions from Despicable Me is a popular scarecrow subject at festivals since they’re easy to make. Still, I bet the guy who did this took great advantage of early pumpkin sales and paint.

10. “It’s fun to scare at the Y. M. C. A.”

How did they manage to get pumpkin carvings that resembled sport and have them be so smooth like that, I have no idea. This especially goes to the football head.

How did they manage to get pumpkin carvings that resembled sport and have them be so smooth like that, I have no idea. This especially goes to the football head.

11. Hey, I didn’t know they had scarecrow versions of the Munsters.

Seems like a recreation of the time when Herman was talking about proposing to Lily with Grandpa. Then again, it's not that the Munsters see themselves as anything other than being the average American family.

Seems like a recreation of the time when Herman was talking about proposing to Lily with Grandpa. Then again, it’s not that the Munsters see themselves as anything other than being the average American family.

12. “Here comes the sun, and I say, it’s all right.”

Now this scarecrow may seem a little creepy, but I think its folksy disposition makes it a much better spokesman for Jimmy Dean sausage than the Sun they have now.

Now this scarecrow may seem a little creepy, but I think its folksy disposition makes it a much better spokesman for Jimmy Dean sausage than the Sun they have now.

13. It’s Halloween with Charlie Brown and Snoopy.

Well, unlike what you see in the comics, this Charlie Brown scarecrow display seems like a winner as I see from the ribbon.

Well, unlike what you see in the comics, this Charlie Brown scarecrow display seems like a winner as I see from the ribbon.

14. I’ve found Scarecrow Waldo!

Of course, a scarecrow of Waldo isn't really that hard to spot. Still, it's pretty funny.

Of course, a scarecrow of Waldo isn’t really that hard to spot. Still, it’s pretty funny.

15. Of course, scarecrows aren’t just a thing in the west you know.

I mean Japan has worshiped one as a god for years. Still, I'm sure you couldn't tell this family was Asian if you didn't see what the dad was wearing.

I mean Japan has worshiped one as a god for years. Still, I’m sure you couldn’t tell this family was Asian if you didn’t see what the dad was wearing.

16. Ladies and gentleman, may introduce to you the Tinman’s brother, Watering Can Man.

Of course, unlike his famous brother from The Wizard of Oz, Watering Can Man works in the landscaping business as shown by his gardening implements.

Of course, unlike his famous brother from The Wizard of Oz, Watering Can Man works in the landscaping business as shown by his gardening implements.

17. Well, wedding bales are surely ringing in this time of year.

Notice that I said,

Notice that I said, “wedding bales” instead of “wedding bells.” Still, these two really seem to be made for each other. Then again, they literally are.

18. My, my, that’s one purdy scare cow you have there, sir.

Seriously, if it weren't for the straw sticking out, I'd sure almost mistake that cow as the real thing or a large stuffed animal.

Seriously, if it weren’t for the straw sticking out, I’d sure almost mistake that cow as the real thing or a large stuffed animal.

19. Now here’s a nice tribute for Gone with the Wind with a Scarlett O’Hara scarecrow.

Actually, that's Scarlett O'Hara from the Gone with the Wind spoof on The Carol Burnett Show. Of course, she just saw that curtain dress in the window and just had to have it.

Actually, that’s Scarlett O’Hara from the Gone with the Wind spoof on The Carol Burnett Show. Of course, she just saw that curtain dress in the window and just had to have it.

20. Never in my life have I seen a firefighter so flammable as this one.

Of course, this scarecrow was probably made by a local fire department. Yet, I'm not sure if being stuffed with straw makes a good firefighter.

Of course, this scarecrow was probably made by a local fire department. Yet, I’m not sure if being stuffed with straw makes a good firefighter.

21. Hey, look, it’s the Cheese String Man.

Of course, this might be at tribute to WuShock, the mascot from Wichita State, but I hope not. Still, Cheese String Man is much better as a scarecrow.

Of course, this might be at tribute to WuShock, the mascot from Wichita State, but I hope not. Still, Cheese String Man is much better as a scarecrow.

22. Ladies and gentlemen, the Beatles.

You know that I wasn't going to leave out the Beatles, did you? I always seem to have the Beatles in Sand Sculptures in Peep Dioramas for some reason.

You know that I wasn’t going to leave out the Beatles, did you? I always seem to have the Beatles in Sand Sculptures in Peep Dioramas for some reason.

23. Of course, I’m sure that a Hipster Scarecrow can do the job of scaring critters.

I'm sure nobody wants to hear what this scarecrow has on his or her ipod. I mean crows just can't stand the music from Counting Crows, get it?

I’m sure nobody wants to hear what this scarecrow has on his or her ipod. I mean crows just can’t stand the music from Counting Crows, get it?

24. So would you want some milk with that?

I'm sure that scarecrow's mother is worried about him possibly breaking his neck when he's climbing buildings like this. Still, pretty clever.

I’m sure that scarecrow’s mother is worried about him possibly breaking his neck when he’s climbing buildings like this. Still, pretty clever.

25. Of course, no scarecrow post would be complete without a tribute to Grant Wood’s American Gothic.

Now I'm sure Depression era farmers would have much better things to do than just make scarecrows for some contest like surviving the Dust Bowl. Still, American Gothic is a very iconic American painting.

Now I’m sure Depression era farmers would have much better things to do than just make scarecrows for some contest like surviving the Dust Bowl. Still, American Gothic is a very iconic American painting.

26. Now I can’t believe crows could ever do this to each other.

Still, despite unfortunate implications, I'm sure this scarecrow display may actually scare crows. I mean to them, it's suggestive of cannibalism.

Still, despite unfortunate implications, I’m sure this scarecrow display may actually scare crows. I mean to them, it’s suggestive of cannibalism.

27. Even scarecrows need self-help books about scaring crows now and then.

I mean no scarecrow is born with the innate ability to scare crows. Crow scaring is an art that needs to be learned.

I mean no scarecrow is born with the innate ability to scare crows. Crow scaring is an art that needs to be learned.

28. Of course, you can’t have a scarecrow contest without one of Edward Scissorhands.

Sure he may have scissors as hands, but Edward isn't that scary once you get to know him. In fact, he's quite nice really but that doesn't mean you should shake hands with him.

Sure he may have scissors as hands, but Edward isn’t that scary once you get to know him. In fact, he’s quite nice really but that doesn’t mean you should shake hands with him.

29. Of course, you can’t have a scarecrow post without posting a display from The Wizard of Oz.

Because one of the main characters we remember from that movie is a scarecrow. Get it? Still, looks pretty creepy.

Because one of the main characters we remember from that movie is a scarecrow. Get it? Still, looks pretty creepy.

30. Hey, look, it’s the Justice League of scarecrows.

Wait a minute, the Incredible Hulk is from Marvel and an Avenger. Also, where the hell is Batman? Oh, well.

Wait a minute, the Incredible Hulk is from Marvel and an Avenger. Also, where the hell is Batman? Oh, well.

31. Scarecrows don’t seem to be very good in skiing do they?

I mean skiing scarecrows always seem to be running in to something like poles.

I mean skiing scarecrows always seem to be running in to something like poles.

32. Looks like Darth Vader is occupied with some recreational reading right now.

I wouldn't disturb him if I were you. I mean you don't want him to force choke you? Oh, wait he does that to guys who fail him.

I wouldn’t disturb him if I were you. I mean you don’t want him to force choke you? Oh, wait he does that to guys who fail him.

33. Since when do crows actually wear clothes?

Sure it's cute and sharp dressed. However, I hopes it's not one of the racist crow caricatures from Dumbo. You don't want any unfortunate implications there.

Sure it’s cute and sharp dressed. However, I hopes it’s not one of the racist crow caricatures from Dumbo. You don’t want any unfortunate implications there.

34. Hey, I’ve never seen an invisible scarecrow before.

I'm sure the crows would be more frightened by an invisible scarecrow than a visible one. Still, it's pretty clever if I do say so myself.

I’m sure the crows would be more frightened by an invisible scarecrow than a visible one. Still, it’s pretty clever if I do say so myself and he seems rather friendly.

35. Of course, you might not want to go anywhere near this scarecrow crime scene or contamination site.

“I’m afraid this one died from a wound that resulted in the loss of an excessive amount of straw. I say it was the neighborhood dog.”

36. Hey, it’s nice that these two scarecrow ladies seem nice enough to offer refreshments.

Now I'm sure these two are from a movie I've seen or something but I'm not sure where from. Still, they seem pretty creepy if you ask me. I mean they seem to hate their waitress jobs so much that they're willing to kill a few unsatisfied customers for kicks.

Now I’m sure these two are from a movie I’ve seen or something but I’m not sure where from. Still, they seem pretty creepy if you ask me. I mean they seem to hate their waitress jobs so much that they’re willing to kill a few unsatisfied customers for kicks.

37. This scarecrow seems to be on his way of becoming an artiste.

Wow, that picture really looks just like him which is more than I can say about anything I could do.

Wow, that picture really looks just like him which is more than I can say about anything I could do. Seriously, he has a lot of talent.

38. Seems like a great graveyard wedding going on here.

I'm sure this ghost or corpse bride will be very happy with her new accountant ghost for all eternity. Of course, he doesn't seem to be that scary.

I’m sure this ghost or corpse bride will be very happy with her new accountant ghost for all eternity. Of course, he doesn’t seem to be that scary.

39. Seems that this scarecrow is doing some surveying work during this time.

I hope this scarecrow isn't from the gas companies. I seriously hope he's not. Let's just say I have absolutely no confidence that fracking is safe and leave it at that.

I hope this scarecrow isn’t from the gas companies. I seriously hope he’s not. Let’s just say I have absolutely no confidence that fracking is safe and leave it at that.

40. “Hello, hello, hello, what have we got here?”

In the world of British murder mysteries, this scene may look like a suicide judging by the gas can and shoes. However, it's actually murder though I'm not sure who did it.

In the world of British murder mysteries, this scene may look like a suicide judging by the gas can and shoes. However, it’s actually murder though I’m not sure who did it.

41. Wow, I didn’t know they had scarecrow fairies out there.

She does have a very pretty dress and wings as well as seems like something designed by a 10 year old girl. Still, I can't hate this.

She does have a very pretty dress and wings as well as seems like something designed by a 10 year old girl. Still, I can’t hate this.

42. Hey, it’s Catwoman!

Of course, while Catwoman would've had an easier life if she'd just marry Batman, she seems to like stealing things for some reason. Still, reminds me of the Catwoman from the 1960s show more than anything.

Of course, while Catwoman would’ve had an easier life if she’d just marry Batman, she seems to like stealing things for some reason. Still, reminds me of the Catwoman from the 1960s show more than anything.

43. Looks like this scarecrow knows what to do with that old broken down tractor.

Of course, this is how people go on fall hayrides in Venice, Italy. Still, I'm not sure about the whole water hayride bit.

Of course, this is how people go on fall hayrides in Venice, Italy. Still, I’m not sure about the whole water hayride bit.

44. Look, it’s Linus in the pumpkin patch waiting for the Great Pumpkin.

Of course, we all should know that Linus tends to waste his Halloween waiting for the Great Pumpkin every year. Let's face it, the Great Pumpkin never comes.

Of course, we all should know that Linus tends to waste his Halloween waiting for the Great Pumpkin every year. Let’s face it, the Great Pumpkin never comes, kids.

45. Just a bunch of camping scarecrows roasting marshmallows by the fire.

Seems that they seem to like camping despite that a campfire would basically consume them in flames. Still, who doesn't love smores?

Seems that they seem to like camping despite that a campfire would basically consume them in flames. Still, who doesn’t love smores?

46. Hey, look, it’s the guys from ZZTop.

Hey isn't there supposed to be a third guy? Then again, it's not like we notice him anyway. Still, you have to love those guys' awesome beards.

Hey isn’t there supposed to be a third guy? Then again, it’s not like we notice him anyway. Still, you have to love those guys’ awesome beards.

47. For you Olympic lovers out there, here’s a scarecrow of Michael Phelps to tell you he’s the greatest swimmer around.

Of course, Michael Phelps didn't win all those gold medals from nothing. Still, who cares whether he was caught smoking pot from a bong?

Of course, Michael Phelps didn’t win all those gold medals from nothing. Still, who cares whether he was caught smoking pot from a bong?

48. Well, I didn’t know that scarecrows did road construction.

Wait a minute, road season is during the summer while scarecrows are associated with fall. I'm so confused.

Wait a minute, road season is during the summer while scarecrows are associated with fall. I’m so confused. Then again, he may not be from PennDOT since he seems to be coming from a manhole.

49. Can’t do a post for scarecrows without including Wallace and Gromit.

Of course, Wallace is one of the few guys who can don a sweater vest and not have anyone think him lame. Still, without his trusty dog Gromit bailing him out, he'd be sunk.

Of course, Wallace is one of the few guys who can don a sweater vest and not have anyone think him lame. Still, without his trusty dog Gromit bailing him out, he’d be sunk.

50. This scarecrow seems to be from the land of Mexico.

Despite the Mexican stereotypes, this is actually a good Mexican scarecrow, especially with the skull mask from The Day of the Dead. Still, are those cowboy boots?

Despite the Mexican stereotypes, this is actually a good Mexican scarecrow, especially with the skull mask from The Day of the Dead. Still, are those cowboy boots?

51. Hey, keep those pumpkin buns in your pants won’t you?

Sometimes scarecrows can have the poorest manners comparable to fratboys. Still, he should think of the children.

Sometimes scarecrows can have the poorest manners comparable to fratboys. Still, he should think of the children.

52. Look, kiddies, here’s Strawbob Squarepants.

The reason he's called Strawbob is because he's made out of straw not sponge. Of course, I don't need to tell you where this takes off from.

The reason he’s called Strawbob is because he’s made out of straw not sponge. Of course, I don’t need to tell you where this takes off from.

53. Of course, all scarecrow race car drivers need a pit stop now and then.

Still, we should probably give this guy some privacy as he does his duty.

Still, we should probably give this guy some privacy as he relieves himself.

54. Hey, what the hell is this supposed to be? An escaped inmate from the asylum?

Actually, this would make a good scarecrow of Lady Gaga. Still, this will certainly scare crows if you know what I mean.

Actually, this would make a good scarecrow of Lady Gaga. Still, this will certainly scare crows if you know what I mean.

55. Now that scarecrow lady seems to have had too much plastic surgery.

Still, I can't help but wonder if this one was made for some theme park or something. It doesn't seem to be made from old clothes.

Still, I can’t help but wonder if this one was made for some theme park or something. It doesn’t seem to be made from old clothes or pumpkins.

56. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here are some scarecrows in pink.

Sure it may seem childish or a little girl's dream but it's for a good cause nonetheless. And breast cancer is a very nasty disease that does kill people.

Sure it may seem childish or a little girl’s dream but it’s for a good cause nonetheless. And breast cancer is a very nasty disease that does kill people.

57. Who’s my little scarecrow? You are, you are.

Now that is one creepy little scarecrow. Imagine what he'll become when he gets older. Also, what's that in his bowl?

Now that is one creepy little scarecrow. Imagine what he’ll become when he gets older. Also, what’s that in his bowl?

58. Who knew that a scarecrow could look so good in a pink dress?

Still, I wonder how the flowers seem to be so lifelike yet not appear to die. Oh, I get it they're fake.

Still, I wonder how the flowers seem to be so lifelike yet not appear to die. Oh, I get it they’re fake.

59. Of course, scarecrows do have their share of potheads.

I mean scarecrows that have pots for heads, get it? Still, this one does seem to sport a hair style that seems to remind me of someone off The Simpsons.

I mean scarecrows that have pots for heads, get it? Still, this one does seem to sport a hair style that seems to remind me of someone off The Simpsons.

60. Of course, sometimes you have to make a scarecrow with all you got, even stuff from a junkyard.

Of course, he doesn't really look that bad save being a bit rusty. Also, the name

Of course, he doesn’t really look that bad save being a bit rusty. Also, the name “Rusty” kind of suits him.

61. Just a lovely afternoon with the Tinman, his wife, and their dog.

Yes, they have flowers on their heads. Yes, that's a dog made out of cans. And yes, Mrs. Tinman's breasts are cone shaped. Still, it's just a scarecrow display, man.

Yes, they have flowers on their heads. Yes, that’s a dog made out of cans. And yes, Mrs. Tinman’s breasts are cone shaped. Still, it’s just a scarecrow display, man.

62. Man, that scarecrow must be very strong to lift weights like that.

Seems pretty strong despite his thin arms. Then again, those bar bells seemed to be made of plastic.

Seems pretty strong despite his thin arms. Then again, those bar bells seemed to be made of plastic.

63. Bring in the harvest season with the spirit of fall.

Of course, I wonder how she managed to make a skirt out of those leaves. Yet, I love her sunflower laden hair.

Of course, I wonder how she managed to make a skirt out of those leaves. Yet, I love the sunflowers in her hair. Still, seems like an oversized rag doll.

64. Just a little girl crossing a bridge with a big troll in her way.

I know this is perhaps from some Asian story but I'm not sure what tale it is. Seems like a an Asian take off from

I know this is perhaps from some Asian story but I’m not sure what tale it is. Seems like a an Asian take off from “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” for me.

65. Even scarecrows can be real knit wits if you know what I mean.

How does this scarecrow manage to make colorful outfits without moving its arms I have no idea. Still, very pretty.

How does this scarecrow manage to make colorful outfits without moving its arms I have no idea. Still, very pretty.

66. Ladies and gentlemen, Counting Crows.

Forgot that Counting Crows didn't consist of actual crows. My mistake. Probably just a cover group.

Forgot that Counting Crows didn’t consist of actual crows. My mistake. Probably just a cover group.

67. Sometimes scarecrows like to be behind the camera.

Of course, I kind of find the concept with this one behind a camcorder rather creepy if you ask me.

Of course, I kind of find the concept with this one behind a camcorder rather creepy if you ask me.

68. Sometimes scarecrows just like to dress up.

And I see this group of pumpkin headed straw stuffed people are very much styling.

And I see this group of pumpkin headed straw stuffed people are very much styling. Still, I’m not sure about the guy’s suit though. Looks like pajamas.

69. Sometimes scarecrows are used to protect crops and sometimes they are made out of them.

This one won't be scaring crows as much as helping critters to an all you can eat buffet. Seriously, it's basically saying,

This one won’t be scaring crows as much as helping critters to an all you can eat buffet. Seriously, it’s basically saying, “Eat me!”

70. Scarecrow Mona Lisa seems to like sitting on a ledge.

Of course, she's sitting on a chair on a railing. Still, you have to include a Mona Lisa scarecrow in this post.

Of course, she’s sitting on a chair on a railing. Still, you have to include a Mona Lisa scarecrow in this post.

71. A scarecrow mother’s work is never done.

This is especially true if she's working a shift as a cashier at some grocery store which I think this one does.

This is especially true if she’s working a shift as a cashier at some grocery store which I think this one does.

72. Man, seems like scarecrow nuns really like to jam to music.

Of course, we all know that these scarecrow nuns are singing,

Of course, we all know that these scarecrow nuns are singing, “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?” The priest is just trying to do the Robot but is really bad at it.

73. Sometimes scarecrows can catch certain moments you remember like the scene from Titanic.

Of course, we all know what happens to Jack after this. Still, how did this person have all that time on their hands to design this?

Of course, we all know what happens to Jack after this. Still, how did this person have all that time on their hands to design this?

74. This scarecrow seems to really like the birds.

Still, she's a scarecrow which means she usually tries to scare crows. Still, I'm sure she delights in those paper birds.

Still, she’s a scarecrow which means she usually tries to scare crows. Still, I’m sure she delights in those paper birds.

75. I’m sure all scarecrows need a place to drink their sorrows away.

Still, you have to admit that making a scarecrow out of corks is a pretty good idea, especially if the display is

Still, you have to admit that making a scarecrow out of corks is a pretty good idea, especially if the display is “Corky’s Bar.”

76. Looks like this guy has the catch of the day.

Of course, this fisherman scarecrow can't catch any fish on dry land. Still, love the raincoat and net.

Of course, this fisherman scarecrow can’t catch any fish on dry land. Still, love the raincoat and net.

77. Of course, if you want to scare dogs, you might want to go with this.

Yeah, since basically Cruella De Vil wants to make coats from domestic dog fur. Such acts are illegal and really won't make you any friends with the ASPCA or the Humane Society.

Yeah, since basically Cruella De Vil wants to make coats from domestic dog fur. Such acts are illegal and really won’t make you any friends with the ASPCA or the Humane Society.

78. Seems like the wind so strong he’s trying not to get blown away.

Then again, straw is a fairly light material. Still, I think this scarecrow display is quite funny as he's hanging from a pole.

Then again, straw is a fairly light material. Still, I think this scarecrow display is quite funny as he’s hanging from a pole.

79. “Say aah! This won’t hurt a bit.”

Not sure if a dentist scarecrow is guaranteed to scare crows. But it'll sure scare some people who are afraid of dentists.

Not sure if a dentist scarecrow is guaranteed to scare crows. But it’ll sure scare some people who are afraid of dentists.

80. Of course, when it comes to scarecrows, it’s best that you go with a cat one.

Not sure if the Cat in the Hat is guaranteed to scare crows. But since it's the most famous Dr. Seuss character, I'll put it in this post.

Not sure if the Cat in the Hat is guaranteed to scare crows. But since it’s the most famous Dr. Seuss character, I’ll put it in this post.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 10 – Baital to Lindworm

Of course, as with any blog series, all things must come to an end. Yet, I hope those who view my posts have enjoyed this series on mythological creatures from myths and urban legend. Perhaps some of you viewing these may now have a better idea for a Halloween costume than some of the standard outfits. Nevertheless, there’s a few more we need to look at before we go. Still, in this final selection, we’ll explore the undead and spirits like the Baital from Hindu Folklore, the Black Dog from Europe, the Cu Sith from Scotland, the Aswang and Diwata from the Philippines, the Gwyllion from Wales, the Tokoloshe from Africa, and the Inugami, the Oni, and the Yuki-Onna from Japan. We also have a few English creatures such as Black Annis and the Lambton Worm. And finally, we’ll see other monsters like the cryptid American Goatman from the United States, the Sleipnir from Norse Mythology, and the Lindworm from Northern Europe. So in this final installment on my blog series of mythological creatures, I hope you enjoy these for your pleasure.

 

136. Baital (a. k. a. Vetala)

The Baital (or Vetala) is one of the more scarier creatures from India that's known to drive people insane or self-harm, take possession of people, and kill children. And you thought Hinduism was a more peaceful religion.

The Baital (or Vetala) is one of the more scarier creatures from India that’s known to drive people insane or self-harm, take possession of people, and kill children. And you thought Hinduism was a more peaceful religion.

Type: Undead, Hybrid, Humanoid, Spirit
From: Hindu Folklore
Features: Bony looking human with dirty brown skin and bat wings. Said to be covered in hairy brown skin and had large, creepy bat wings protruding from its back. Described as resembling dried up corpses with wings. Have eyes that never showed a glimmer or sparkle as well as appear completely dead. Body is cold, clammy, and without blood. Sometimes depicted with horns.
Behavior: Hung by their toes from mimosa trees used as burial grounds. Have very good social skills.
Habitat: India.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they take over people’s corpses but they’re also known to drive people mad or to suicide, cause miscarriages, and kill children. Very manipulative and can control a person through his or her dreams.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure you could get rid of it, yet if you’re talking to one, just don’t try to answer its questions at least for a while. Using mantras can also help.

 

137. Black Dog

Now while most normal black dogs are relatively harmless, this Black Dog can be a hound out of hell. It's scratch marks can instill burns on skin and is prone to bring severe injury on humans. If you see a black dog with glowing red eyes in your neighborhood, you might want to call your local exorcist at best.

Now while most normal black dogs are relatively harmless, this Black Dog can be a hound out of hell. It’s scratch marks can instill burns on skin and is prone to bring severe injury on humans. If you see a black dog with glowing red eyes in your neighborhood, you might want to call your local exorcist at best.

Type: Undead, Spirit
From: Medieval European Folklore
Features: Extremely large black canine ghost. Said to be as big as an adolescent calf and has very long and sharp nails. Eyes are either pitched black or glowing red. Mouth is constantly covered with smelling drool virtually foaming.
Behavior: Nocturnal and solitary.
Habitat: Europe and the Americas.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, seeing it once is good luck. Seeing it a second time, well, it’s basically a death omen. Can attack unharmed but tends to instill severe injury onto victims. Scratch mark would leave scorching burns on skin. Still, may be peaceful and serene at first but can suddenly attack out of nowhere. Associated with thunderstorms. However, sometimes it depends on the story.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not despite its supposedly domestic appearance.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure if you can.

 

138. Cu Sith

The Cu Sith is seen as an omen of death but when it barks three times, it's said a nursing mother is kidnapped to provide milk for fairies by this green hound dog. Yet, I wonder if this Scottish pooch likes green eggs an ham.

The Cu Sith is seen as an omen of death but when it barks three times, it’s said a nursing mother is kidnapped to provide milk for fairies by this green hound dog. Yet, I wonder if this Scottish pooch likes green eggs an ham.

Type: Undead, Spirit
From: Scottish Mythology
Features: Enormous dark green dog. Said to be about the size of a large calf with paws as big as a person’s hand. Said to be covered in green shaggy fur and a curled or braided tail. Could bark 3 consecutive loud barks that could be heard far away. Sometimes depicted as white.
Behavior: Solitary. Could hunt silently.
Habitat: The Scottish Highlands.
Is It Dangerous?: Seen as an omen of death and appears only to take one to the afterlife. Yet, it’s known to abduct nursing mothers and carry them off to its fairy mounds where they’d be milked to feed fairy children. Oh, and when you hear its barks out at sea, you might want to come back home until it lets out a third or be overcome with terror to the point of death. This is goes especially for guys who just had a kid.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: I don’t think you can since it’s a netherworld dog.

 

139. Diwata

Like the Greek nymphs, the Diwata are nature spirits though could appear male or female. However, they are known to be diehard environmentalists and will curse you if you ever think of clearing their beloved forests for a strip mall. American Libertarians wanting to do business in the Philippines may want to take note of this.

Like the Greek nymphs, the Diwata are nature spirits though could appear male or female. However, they are known to be diehard environmentalists and will curse you if you ever think of clearing their beloved forests for a strip mall. American Libertarians wanting to do business in the Philippines may want to take note of this.

Type: Humanoid, Spirit
From: Philippine Mythology
Features: Male and female human like spirits seen as astoundingly beautiful and ageless. Said to have blemish free or fair color skin.
Behavior: Known as protectors of nature. Can be called upon to ensure good health, good crop growth, and good fortune.
Habitat: Philippines. Said to reside in banyan or large accia trees in the forests. Are very powerful tree huggers.
Is It Dangerous?: Let’s just say as long as you ask these spirits permission to wander the protected areas and not anger them, you’ll be fine. Those who don’t respect their surroundings will be cursed.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Since they’re human then absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: I don’t think you want to since they’re rather nice nature protectors. Still, respect the Philippine forests as well as them if you don’t want anything bad to happen to you.

 

140. Gwyllion

 She may seem like an ugly witch from Macbeth but this Gwyllion is actually a harmless prankster who won't hurt you if you treat her right. Yet, this doesn't mean she's not willing to use self-defense.


She may seem like an ugly witch from Macbeth but this Gwyllion is actually a harmless prankster who won’t hurt you if you treat her right. Yet, this doesn’t mean she’s not willing to use self-defense.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Welsh Mythology
Features: Ugly female spirit that usually wears ash colored clothing and an oblong 4 pointed hat as well as carries a pot or wooden can in one hand. Known for disturbing laughter and cries of “Wb!”
Behavior: Like to cause mischief. Like to scare and mislead travelers.
Habitat: Welsh Mountains.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they’re normally pranksters to unsuspecting travelers though some of their hijinks may get out of hand. But if they’re threatened, then they will flash a metal knife and attack you.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell. They’re human.
How to Get Rid of It: If one enters your home, just treat her fairly and she’ll leave without doing any harm.

 

141. Inugami

Having an Inugami isn't all what's cracked up to be. Sure it may be fun to have a kind of dog that would give what's coming to your enemies. But getting one requires a ritual that pertains to certain practices that would get you jailed for animal cruelty.

Having an Inugami isn’t all what’s cracked up to be. Sure it may be fun to have a kind of dog that would give what’s coming to your enemies. But getting one requires a ritual that pertains to certain practices that would get you jailed for animal cruelty.

Type: Spirit, Undead
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Dog spirit but tend to be described as werewolves.
Behavior: Master of powerful black magic.
Habitat: Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, certainly. Can take possession of a person and drive him or her crazy or to suicide. Known to be used by their masters for activities like mutilating, kidnapping, or murder. Yet, if it’s master soul is said to be blinded by unstoppable rage or desire to revenge, then it could escape his or her control and kill them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Yes, they can or were. Known to be kind and loyal companion to its human owner. However, they could be conjured in a kind of ceremony that would consist of great cruelty to animals. Still, their masters aren’t known to be very nice people.
How to Get Rid of It: These creatures are impossible to get rid of and tend to be passed from generation to generation. Still, the best answer is to simply not marry into a family that has one.

 

142. Sleipnir

Now Sleipnir may seem like a magnificent horse despite its 8 legs. Still, its conception is rather, well, crazy. I mean Odin's horse was born to Loki after he engaged in a one night stand with a stallion. Of course, I've never seen a case of parental confusion like this since Mrs. Doubtfire.

Now Sleipnir may seem like a magnificent horse despite its 8 legs. Still, its conception is rather, well, crazy. I mean Odin’s horse was born to Loki after he engaged in a one night stand with a stallion. Of course, I’ve never seen a case of parental confusion like this since Mrs. Doubtfire.

Type: Divine Horse
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Giant 8 legged black horse. Has magical symbols carved in his teeth. Sometimes depicted with four and other colors.
Behavior: Said to be the fastest, largest, and most powerful horse in the world. Can run through land, sea, and air. Has magical powers.
Habitat: Europe.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it’s not said to be.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Despite being Loki’s child he birthed by a stallion (don’t ask), he’s Odin’s horse.
How to Get Rid of It: You don’t want to get rid of this horse.

 

143. Oni

Now the Japanese Oni may resemble a demon at first but they do a job that's similar to the Grim Reaper despite that they wear a loincloth of a skin that comes from an endangered species. Still, like many superheroes, the tend to enjoy destruction and love ruining everything that crosses their paths.

Now the Japanese Oni may resemble a demon at first but they do a job that’s similar to the Grim Reaper despite that they wear a loincloth of a skin that comes from an endangered species. Still, like many superheroes, the tend to enjoy destruction and love ruining everything that crosses their paths.

Type: Yokai, Spirit, Humanoid
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Has a huge body, glowing horns, and wide mouth. Can have green, blue, or red skin. Said to have shaggy hair, long claws, and hideously ugly. Sometimes may have extra eyes, fingers, or toes. Often depicted wearing tiger skin loincloths.
Behavior: Can shape shift as well as be totally invisible. Doesn’t like to be seen by humans in its true form. Said to be bounty hunters for souls that escape from hell. Also said to capture souls of dying people.
Habitat: Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: They love destruction and tend to ruin everything and anything crossing in their path. Capable of causing natural disasters like mudslides, earthquakes, spreading deadly plagues, and taking over people’s body.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell. Other than that, I’m not sure how or if.
How to Get Rid of It: Dried peas are said to blind it.

 

144. American Goatman

While the Satyr is the closest thing in mythology to a 1960s flower child, the American Goatman is anything but despite them both being half-goat and half-man. Rather he's known to be an axe wielding psycho killer known to attack couples making out in cars in Maryland as well as cause a lot of train accidents in Kentucky.

While the Satyr is the closest thing in mythology to a 1960s flower child, the American Goatman is anything but despite them both being half-goat and half-man. Rather he’s known to be an axe wielding psycho killer known to attack couples making out in cars in Maryland as well as cause a lot of train accidents in Kentucky.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid, Cryptid
From: United States
Features: Half-goat and half-man creature. Usually depicted with legs of a goat, a grotesque body, and wielding an axe. The one in Kentucky is said to have an aquiline nose and alabaster skin face as well as long greasy hair. The one in Texas is said to have scales.
Behavior: The one in Maryland is said to have once been a brilliant scientist transformed as such after an experiment gone wrong who hates being called hideous. The one in Kentucky is said to either be an escaped circus freak or a product of a Satanic ritual and may be capable of using hypnosis.
Habitat: United States, particularly Maryland, Kentucky, and Texas.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Attacks cars with an axe, especially when they had young couples making out in them. One in Kentucky is said to cause a lot of accidents as well as lure people to get run over by trains.
Can It Be Domesticated?: He’s a human so no.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

145. Tokoloshe

While the West has the Boogeyman, Africa has a similar creature haunting people's bedrooms called the Tokoloshe which were created by evil shamans. If you see one of these, consult your local African witch doctor.

While the West has the Boogeyman, Africa has a similar creature haunting people’s bedrooms called the Tokoloshe which were created by evil shamans. If you see one of these, consult your local African witch doctor.

Type: Humanoid, Spirit, Water Monster
From: Zulu and Xhosa Folklore
Features: Has a pale skinned child size body with eyes and brain removed. Created from a recently deceased body by shaman magic. Said to be hairy. Depictions may vary in appearance.
Behavior: Capable of invisibility and can only be seen by intended victims. Tend to be rather mischievous and take on many forms.
Habitat: Africa.
Is It Dangerous?: Have been known to terrorize people by making random appearances, destroying personal belongings, and homes. Still, they could be capable of physical attacks as well as render victims helpless in trying to explain their wounds and seem absolutely deranged. At worst can bring sickness and death on the victim.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they’re created by shamans who have a dark agenda.
How to Get Rid of It: Call an African witch doctor (or n’anga) to banish it from the area.

 

146. Yuki-Onna (a. k. a. Snow Woman)

Known as the Japanese Snow Woman, the Yuki-Onna is known to lure and kill almost every man she encounters in the snowy mountains, especially if they're domestic abusers or evil. Of course, she has been in relationships with several men and has let a few goodhearted men go from time to time.

Known as the Japanese Snow Woman, the Yuki-Onna is known to lure and kill almost every man she encounters in the snowy mountains, especially if they’re domestic abusers or evil. Of course, she has been in relationships with several men and has let a few goodhearted men go from time to time.

Type: Humanoid, Spirit, Undead
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Ghost of a beautiful young woman with cold, transparent skin. Often seen in flowing robes.
Behavior: Ghost of a woman who froze to death in the mountains during a blizzard. Doesn’t walk on the ground so she leaves no foot prints. Could appear or disappear outdoors when she chooses. Said to be able to reproduce and had a line of several men.
Habitat: Mountains of Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Her rage over dying alone often leads her to kill almost every guy she encounters, particularly if they’re domestic abusers or just plain evil. She may lure guys to get close to her only to have them freeze to death by her icy breath.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not for she’s human and dead.
How to Get Rid of It: Be a nice person who doesn’t mistreat women or children and she’ll send you on your way. Still, she’ll swear you to secrecy about her existence.

 

147. Aswang

Though the Aswang may seem normal by day, by night it has put up an appetite for corpses and sometimes fetuses (don't ask). Still, they don't harm their friends and neighbors. Yet, if you marry one, you basically become one though.

Though the Aswang may seem normal by day, by night it has put up an appetite for corpses and sometimes fetuses (don’t ask). Still, they don’t harm their friends and neighbors. Yet, if you marry one, you basically become one though.

Type: Humanoid, Undead
From: Philippine Mythology
Features: Vampire like witch said to have leathery wings and sharp fangs. Sometimes described appearing as a bat, dog, or snake. Said to resemble a ghoulish vampire-like werewolf. Depicted with long noses and bloodshot eyes. May make noises or may not. Appearances may vary and there are a lot of different kinds.
Behavior: Capable of magical powers and shape shifting. Nocturnal though may assume normal human bodies by day and only transform if they’re hungry. Have a normal human range of emotions. Marry one can have you be one of them. Have upside down reflections.
Habitat: Western Regions of the Philippines.
Is It Dangerous?: Said to stalk its victims at night and much on corpses from graves it would replace with a banana tree carving that resembles the now consumed deceased. Sometimes these bloodthirsty monsters could eat fetuses (don’t ask). Still, they don’t harm their neighbors and can be befriended.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Can be repelled with garlic, salt, special prayers, ginger coins, coconut oil, and religious artifacts. Could be killed by a whip made from a stingray’s tail as well as repelled. Decapitation is another method.

 

148. Black Annis (a. k. a. Black Agnes or Black Anna)

For the love of God, don't let this blue iron nailed witch near small children and lambs. Still, if you want to get rid of her, have her walk into the sunlight and she'll turn to stone.

For the love of God, don’t let this blue iron nailed witch near small children and lambs. Still, if you want to get rid of her, have her walk into the sunlight and she’ll turn to stone.

Type: Humanoid
From: English Folklore
Features: Blue faced old hag with sharp iron claws.
Behavior: Capable of magical powers. Nocturnal and solitary.
Habitat: In a cave near Leicestershire.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, known to kidnap and eat small children and lambs as well as skin their hides to hang in trees or wear around her waist as a belt.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Bring her out to the sun and she’ll turn to stone.

 

149. Lambton Worm

The Lambton Worm is an English dragon that was as dangerous as it was almost invincible. If it was cut in two, it would simply reattach its parts. That is, until John Lambton basically cut it in too many pieces for it to survive. A giant meat grinder would've worked better.

The Lambton Worm is an English dragon that was as dangerous as it was almost invincible. If it was cut in two, it would simply reattach its parts. That is, until John Lambton basically cut it in too many pieces for it to survive. A giant meat grinder would’ve worked better.

Type: Dragon, Serpent
From: English Folklore
Features: Long serpent like body with huge glowing eyes and large razor sharp teeth. Sometimes said to have spikes along its body. Said not to have arms or legs.
Behavior: Could self-heal and reattach its own parts.
Habitat: England.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, known to terrorize villagers that they gave large amounts to milk to appease it. Has a hunger for sheep and children.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: Was chopped into too many pieces for it to survive by John Lambton.

 

150. Lindworm

The Lindworm is a large snake like dragon known to be deadly poisonous and swallow cattle whole. Yet, it was also known to terrorize on land or water as well as be very ferocious.

The Lindworm is a large snake like dragon known to be deadly poisonous and swallow cattle whole. Yet, it was also known to terrorize on land or water as well as be very ferocious. Still, we’re not sure whether this creature came from Norse Mythology or not. Probably.

Type: Dragon, Serpent
From: Northern European Mythology (possibly Norse Mythology)
Features: Extremely large and monstrous snake. Sometimes described having wings or from 2-4 limbs as well as large pointed claws. Appearances may vary.
Behavior: Solitary, amphibious, and very ferocious.
Habitat: Various locations.
Is It Dangerous?: Has a deadly poisonous bite. Said to swallow cattle and other livestock whole and sometimes ate the dead. Could terrorize land, rivers, or the seas.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 9 – Scorpion Man to Orthrus

Of course, in the realm of mythological monsters, you have many creatures that could serve as loyal companions or sidekicks like Pegasus or Fawkes the Phoenix. Still, this doesn’t mean that some of these creature companions can do any harm as with many Japanese mythological legends like the Kappa which makes makes a loyal friend but isn’t exactly what you’d call nice. Still, in this selection, we’ll take a look at some Greek Mythology creatures like the Onocentaur, the Hippocampus, the Hecatoncheires, the Amphisbaena, and the Orthrus. We’ll explore a few dragons like the Knucker from England, the Azhi Dahaka from Iran, the Smok Wawleski from Poland, and the Orochi from Japan. Then we’ll see a few monsters from the Western Hemisphere like the cryptid Lizardman of Scape Ore Swamp in the United States, the Dominican Ciguapa, and the Camazotz from Mayan Mythology. Finally, we’ll look at horrors like the Scorpion Man from Ancient Mesopotamia, the Weretiger from India, and the Aigamuxa from Bushman Mythology. So without further adieu, here are some more mythological monster marvels for your viewing pleasure.

 

121. Scorpion Man

Sure this dude may look like a total beefcake from the waist up but his tail is so venomous to kill you in seconds and he could make you stone dead with just a glance. Yet, he does have a twin brother though.

Sure this dude may look like a total beefcake from the waist up but his tail is so venomous to kill you in seconds and he could make you stone dead with just a glance. Yet, he does have a twin brother though.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Mesopotamian Mythology
Features: Has an upper body and torso of a muscular man and lower body of a scorpion. Has a huge arching tail ending in a giant sting. Very tall and depicted with wings.
Behavior: Very strong. Have god like powers and are very good archers. There are two of them who are twin brothers and said to be guardians of the gates of heaven. Given birth by Tiamat after her husband Apsu was killed and their daughter was enslaved. Tortured dead people in the underworld by having them lie on their bellies and eat dirt.
Habitat: Ancient Middle East.
Is It Dangerous?: Tail is so loaded with venom that it could kill a grown man in seconds. Always hit their targets in fatal accuracy. Could turn people into stone with just one glance.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they were heavenly guardians so they were working for someone. Also, they’re part human and sons of Tiamat.
How to Get Rid of It: I don’t think you can since they guard the gates of Mesopotamian heaven and you don’t want to work for their bosses.

 

122. Weretiger

While the West has the Werewolf, Asia has the Weretiger which is a very dangerous creature (save in Malaysia and Indonesia), and could become this in many different ways. Still, pretty cool though.

While the West has the Werewolf, Asia has the Weretiger which is a very dangerous creature (save in Malaysia and Indonesia), and could become this in many different ways. Still, pretty cool though.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Indian Folklore
Features: Half human and half tiger sometimes in the same context as a werewolf. Has thick claws and sharp teeth. Often depicted bipedal and sometimes white. Has five toes on paws.
Behavior: Very intelligent as well as fast and strong. Nocturnal. Said to be humans before they turned into one through choice, doing bad things, craving for power and violence, drinking a soup made from a dead person while wearing a tiger costume, or some sort of curse. There is a Harimau Jardian from Malaysia and Indonesia that becomes one through inheritance and takes its form at night though it may be selective in its human prey at times. May be capable of magical powers and shape shifters.
Habitat: India and Asia. Lives in the jungle.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, would prowl around the jungle looking for human prey and would attack at night to satisfy its hunger for fresh blood. Is a menace to livestock. If bitten, you could become one of them. Still, these are very nasty cats. In Indonesia and Malaysia, it’s only hostile to prey and enemies.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Don’t even think about it save maybe in Malaysia and Indonesia where they guard plantations from wild pigs.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how. Silver bullets? I mean it worked for werewolves.

 

123. Onocentaur

Now the Onocentaur may be similar to the standard Centaur except that it's part donkey. However, it has a very violent temper and sometimes conspires with the Sirens to attack sailors in ships.

Now the Onocentaur may be similar to the standard Centaur except that it’s part donkey. However, it has a very violent temper and sometimes conspires with the Sirens to attack sailors in ships.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Greek Mythology (though you may think Bottom from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in his temporary form)
Features: Top half human and lower half donkey. Animal half is ashen color that might have touches white near its flanks. Has human chest, arms, and head with face surrounded by a mane of thick, long hair.
Behavior: As speedy as any horse or donkey. Tends to carry bows and clubs as weapons. Has a nature of constant conflict between its human and animal counterparts and has a very violent temper.
Habitat: Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, has a very violent temper as well as sometimes joins forces with the sirens to kill sailors on ships.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Would rather die of starvation than endure capture.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

124. Hippocampus

While the Kelpie is known to drown people to their deaths by offering pony rides, the Hippocampus is best known as being a chariot horse for Poseidon. Still, it has been known to help sailors and ships as well.

While the Kelpie is known to drown people to their deaths by offering pony rides, the Hippocampus is best known as being a chariot horse for Poseidon. Still, it has been known to help sailors and ships as well.

Type: Hybrid, Divine Horse, Sea Monster
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Horse with a fish like serpentine back half. Often depicted with fins covering manes and legs. Has horse like front. May be portrayed with wings. Very majestic looking.
Behavior: Could swiftly gallop in water as on land.
Habitat: Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: I don’t think so. It’s at least safe enough to domesticate.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Only by Poseidon for they are his personal sea horses. Used on his sea chariot. Also has been known to save drowning sailors and help ships through difficult passages.
How to Get Rid of It: You don’t want to get rid of this awesome creature.

 

125. Azhi Dahaka (a. k. a. Dahaka)

The Azhi Dahaka was a dragon created by Ahiram to destroy life on earth only to get chained to Mount Darmavand near the Caspian Sea by Atar. Yet, when Atar opened it, well, all the scorpions and venomous snakes came out.

The Azhi Dahaka was a dragon created by Ahiram to destroy life on earth only to get chained to Mount Darmavand near the Caspian Sea by Atar. Yet, when Atar opened it, well, all the scorpions and venomous snakes came out.

Type: Dragon
From: Iranian and Zorastrian Folklore
Features: 3 headed dragon with sharp fangs. Has huge jaws and long sharp teeth.
Behavior: Created by the god Ahirman to dominate the world.
Habitat: Middle East and Central Asia.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Had an appetite for livestock before overpowering and feasting on humans.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, Ahirman tried to send it to destroy life on earth as well as swallow the sun but that’s about it. Of course, only a god would want to domesticate it.
How to Get Rid of It: Chained to Mount Darmavand near the Caspian Sea by Atar who later drove a sword through its belly to kill it once and for all. Yet, venomous snakes and scorpions poured out of its body. Oops! Yet, it may be back for the end of the world.

 

126. Knucker (a. k. a. Nicor)

The Knucker is a large flying water dragon known to live in deep pools of fresh water called knuckerholes as well as terrorizing Lyminster. Still, it was either defeated by a knight wanting to marry a princess or a giant poison pie.

The Knucker is a large flying water dragon known to live in deep pools of fresh water called knuckerholes as well as terrorizing Lyminster. Still, it was either defeated by a knight wanting to marry a princess or a giant poison pie.

Type: Dragon, Water Monster
From: English Folklore
Features: Large flying water dragon.
Behavior: Solitary and amphibious.
Habitat: Water pool near Lyminster in Sussex.
Is It Dangerous?: Known for terrorizing the village of Lyminster as well as eating the livestock and humans.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Either slain by a courageous knight trying to win the hand of a princess or by a large poisonous pie baked by a kid who died shortly after from exposure.

 

127. Orochi (a. k. a. Yamata no Orochi)

The Orochi was a humongous 8 headed Japanese dragon known to devour young maidens. Was defeated by the god Susanoo who managed to kill the monster by getting it drunk on 8 giant sake vases first. Well, not the kind of bedtime story for kids I see.

The Orochi was a humongous 8 headed Japanese dragon known to devour young maidens. Was defeated by the god Susanoo who managed to kill the monster by getting it drunk on 8 giant sake vases first. Well, not the kind of bedtime story for kids I see.

Type: Dragon, Serpent
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Enormous serpent with 8 heads and 8 tails. Said to be large and long enough to cover 8 valleys and 8 mountains. Body was constantly bloody looking and inflamed. Had moss, firs, and cypress trees grow along the ridges of its back. Has red piercing eyes.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Asia.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, existed on a diet of young maidens for several years. Once wiped out nearly a whole brood of daughters by two earth deities.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Got drunk on 8 giant vases of sake and fell asleep. Was slain by Susanoo into many smaller pieces. Found the great sword of Kusanagi embedded inside and presented it to his sister Ameratsu.

 

128. Smok Wawleski (a. k. a. Wawel Dragon)

The Smok Wawelski was a ferocious man eating dragon in Poland that seemed almost unstoppable until a cobbler's apprentice gave it a lamb full of sulfur. Guess the moral of the story is that taxidermists aren't creeps. Yeah right.

The Smok Wawelski was a ferocious man eating dragon in Poland that seemed almost unstoppable until a cobbler’s apprentice gave it a lamb full of sulfur. Guess the moral of the story is that taxidermists aren’t creeps. Yeah right.

Type: Dragon
From: Polish Folklore
Features: Fire breathing dragon with 6 legs. Sometimes described as having 7 heads.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Poland. Lives in a cave at the foot of Wawel Hill near the Vistula River which is just near Krakow.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Evil and extremely destructive as well as breathes fire. Would leave a trail of destruction by killing farmers, ruining homes, and eating livestock. Many knights tried to slay this creature but failed. Has a particular craving for young maidens that the people of Krakow had to leave a young maiden at its den once a month.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: A cobbler’s apprentice basically presented it a sulfur stuffed lamb in which the dragon was unable to quench its thirst that it got a stomach ache and exploded. Smart guy.

 

129. Aigamuxa (a. k. a. Aigamuchab)

While the Aigamuxa is a known man eating beast, it's easily out maneuverable because it has eyes on its feet. Thus, it can't run and see at the same time. Still, the stuff of nightmares though.

While the Aigamuxa is a known man eating beast, it’s easily out maneuverable because it has eyes on its feet. Thus, it can’t run and see at the same time. Still, the stuff of nightmares though.

Type: Humanoid
From: Bushman Mythology
Features: Human like with eyes on its feet. Eyes could be on the soles, in step, or back of heel. Also very big. Has huge, long, and sharp pointy teeth.
Behavior: Solitary. Has to run blind.
Habitat: Africa. Lives in the dunes of deserts.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, it’s known as a man eater.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not for it’s a humanoid and dangerous.
How to Get Rid of It: Just out run it and make sure it can keep you in sight since it will have to stop and lie down.

 

130. Hecatoncheires

Sure they it may be a hideously ugly beast but if it weren't for the Hecatontcheires, Zeus probably wouldn't have been able to take revenge against his dad Cronus, imprison the Titans, and become ruler of Mount Olympus.

Sure they it may be a hideously ugly beast but if it weren’t for the Hecatontcheires, Zeus probably wouldn’t have been able to take revenge against his dad Cronus, imprison the Titans, and become ruler of Mount Olympus.

Type: Humanoid
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Giant with 50 heads and 100 arms. Overwhelmingly hideous. Depictions may vary for obvious reasons.
Behavior: There are three of them named Briareus, Cottus and Gyges. Can throw 100 rocks at a time. Very strong.
Habitat: Greece. Were once banished to Tartarus though.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they helped Zeus defeat the Titans so you don’t want to mess with them. Very ferocious.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Only by the Olympian gods, especially Zeus but not as a pet.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how, but they’re probably immortal so it’s impossible.

 

131. Amphisbaena

Though I'm not sure how this snake eats or goes to the bathroom (nor do I want to), it's interesting to note that the supposedly Amphisbaena was said to have many uses in folk medicine such as ensuring safe pregnancies, curing arthritis and the common cold, attracting sexual conquests, being of pure heart and mind, or keeping warm. Yes, I know it's strange but that's the Greeks for you.

Though I’m not sure how this snake eats or goes to the bathroom (nor do I want to), it’s interesting to note that the supposedly Amphisbaena was said to have many uses in folk medicine such as ensuring safe pregnancies, curing arthritis and the common cold, attracting sexual conquests, being of pure heart and mind, or keeping warm. Yes, I know it’s strange but that’s the Greeks for you.

Type: Serpent.
From: Greek Mythology
Features: A serpent with a head on each end. Sometimes depicted with scaled chicken feet as well as feathered wings or dragon like with horns and small round ears.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Libyan Desert.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Considered deadly poisonous. Usually feeds off corpses though.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

132. Camazotz

In some Mayan tales, the Camazotz is a giant bat like creature that beheads one of the Hero Twins and uses it for a ball game. In others, it's an evil bat god associated with night, death, and sacrifice.

In some Mayan tales, the Camazotz is a giant bat like creature that beheads one of the Hero Twins and uses it for a ball game. In others, it’s an evil bat god associated with night, death, and sacrifice.

Type: Abnormal Animal
From: Mayan Mythology
Features: A gigantic vampire bat. Said to be as big as a full grown man maybe even bigger. Yet, this isn’t to be confused with the bat like deity of the same name.
Behavior: Nocturnal. Believed to exist as a stone statue during the daytime.
Habitat: Jungles of Central America as well as Xibalba, the Mayan underworld.
Is It Dangerous?: Absolutely. Would attack and suck the victim dry of blood and terrorize local people on a nightly basis. Known to kill both animals and people as well as commit genocide. Beheaded one of the Hero Twins and used his hat as a ball for a game against the gods.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they’re owned by the Mayan gods who could control them any way they please. Yet, not always 100% of the time.
How to Get Rid of It: Just try to appease the Mayan gods with human sacrifices so you don’t have to face these demonic bats ever again.

 

133. Cigquapa

Sure she may resemble a sexy alien chick you may see fooling around with Captain Kirk on Star Trek. However, the Ciguapa is a creature in Dominican mythology with irresistible charm and capability of unspeakable cruelty.

Sure she may resemble a sexy alien chick you may see fooling around with Captain Kirk on Star Trek. However, the Ciguapa is a creature in Dominican mythology with irresistible charm and capability of unspeakable cruelty. Beware of blue women with backward feet.

Type: Humanoid
From: Dominican Folklore (possibly with roots from African or Taino legend)
Features: Blue or brown nude female with backward feet. Considered alluring or horrifying. Have manes of shiny long dark hair that covers their bodies. Have deep black eyes. May occasionally whine or chirp.
Behavior: Very smart and avoid capture with backward feet. Nocturnal.
Habitat: High Mountains of the Dominican Republic.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, don’t look at their eyes since they could bewitch you forever. Seen as an omen of death as well as lure innocent victims with their irresistible charm. Far from innocent and capable of unspeakable cruelty.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they’re humanoid and would prefer not to.
How to Get Rid of It: Can only be captured if tracked down during a full moon using a black and white dog born with extra toes on its paws.

 

134. Lizardman of Scape Ore Swamp

No, this isn't Lizardman from The Amazing Spiderman movies or the Creature from the Black Lagoon. This is the Lizardman of Scape Ore Swamp in South Carolina from American Urban Legend. Of course, if you want to go anywhere near it, make sure you have good car insurance. You'll need it.

No, this isn’t Lizardman from The Amazing Spiderman movies or the Creature from the Black Lagoon. This is the Lizardman of Scape Ore Swamp in South Carolina from American Urban Legend. Of course, if you want to go anywhere near it, make sure you have good car insurance. You’ll need it.

Type: Humanoid, Hybrid, Cryptid
From: United States
Feature: Said to be 7ft tall, bipedal and bulky, as well as covered in dark hair and lizard like scales on his hands, feet and face. Has 3 toes on each foot and 3 fingers on each hand. May have a tail. Kind of resembles the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
Behavior: Is incredibly strong and more than capable of ripping into a car. Solitary.
Habitat: Scape Ore Swamp in Lee County, South Carolina. Seen in subways in town near the swamp.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Has been known to maul cars for some reason and you wouldn’t want to be in one near it.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell since its humanoid.
How to Get Rid of It: Despite what your car may go through, you might want to take a picture of it and send it to the History Channel or Syfy.

 

135. Orthrus

The Orthrus may appear a bit like Cerberus except that he has two heads and without the benefit of being Hades' pet guard dog. Killed by Hercules so the gods can have those red cattle.

The Orthrus may appear a bit like Cerberus except that he has two heads and without the benefit of being Hades’ pet guard dog. Killed by Hercules so the gods can have those red cattle.

Type: Hybrid, Serpent
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Giant 2 headed dog with a serpent’s tail. Muscular with sharp teeth. Sometimes just depicted as a 2 headed dog.
Behavior: Charged with protecting the red cattle of Erythia that was coveted by the Greek gods.
Habitat: Island of Erythia in Ancient Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, very ferocious and snake like tail could be instantly poisonous and lethal.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Owned by 3 bodied giant Geryon and was charged with guarding a herd of red cattle along with his master Eurytion.
How to Get Rid of It: Killed by Hercules with one strong blow of the latter’s supernaturally spiked club.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 8 – Melusine to Piasa

While many mythical creatures seem to originate in Western Mythology, especially in legends by the Greeks, there are plenty of monsters all over the world. Of course, while some of them may remind you of some of the more familiar beasts, sometimes they could be seen as different. For instance, the Chinese Jiang Shi is way different from the traditional vampire and zombie. Same goes with the Japanese Ningyo and traditional western mermaids as well as the Adlet with regular werewolves. Nevertheless, in this selection, we’ll look at aquatic creatures like the French Melusine, the Jormungand from Norse Mythology, the Aztec Ahuizotl, the Scottish Nucklelavee, as well as the cryptids like the Ogopogo from Canada and the Mokele-Mbembe from Africa. From Greek Mythology, we’ll see the parents of all monsters named Echidna and Typhon, the Peryton, and the Lamia. And then we have the cryptid Skunk Ape from the Everglades, the Elemental from Paracelsus, the Lich, the English giant Gogmagog, and the Piasa from Native American Legend. So without further adieu, here are some more mythological monstrosities for your pleasure.

 

106. Melusine

Let's just say there's a good reason why Melusine wanted some time by herself on Saturdays. Still, she probably should've told her husband about her lower half before they were married. Would've saved a lot of trouble.

Let’s just say there’s a good reason why Melusine wanted some time by herself on Saturdays. Still, she probably should’ve told her husband about her lower half before they were married. Would’ve saved a lot of trouble.

Type: Hybrid, Water Monster, Humanoid
From: French Folklore
Features: Half woman and half fish or serpent. Could be depicted with tails or wings. Some stories have her as a traditional siren. Considered beautiful from the waist up. Appearances vary.
Behavior: Let’s just say, she greatly values her privacy, especially when it came to bathing on a Saturday. May have been this way as a curse for being taken to Avalon in some stories. Also, hates to be teased about her lower half. Can turn into a dragon and is said to surface every 7 years.
Habitat: Streams and rivers.
Is It Dangerous?: Depends on the legend. In some stories, she’s a siren who calls to lead men to their watery deaths. In others, she’s a stealer of children who also beckons them at night and leads them to drown. In her most famous story, she’s actually pretty nice but she could turn into a dragon if you dare piss her off about what’s below her waist.
Can It Be Domesticated?: She’s part human, so no.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, she did leave her husband when he called her a serpent in front of court after he caught her bathing. Should’ve married the founder of Starbucks. At least she could model for the logo.

 

107. Elemental

Of course, if you take the water elemental out, you get the 1970s R&B and soul music from the other three basic elements of Earth, Wind, & Fire. Of course, I'm sure that group with actual elementals won't go too well though.

Of course, if you take the water elemental out, you get the 1970s R&B and soul music from the other three basic elements of Earth, Wind, & Fire. Of course, I’m sure that group with actual elementals won’t go too well though.

Type: Humanoid, Anthropomorphic Being, Spirit
From: 16th century alchemical writings of Paracelsus
Features: Human like creature of the elements of earth, air, fire, and water. There are four different types like Gnome (earth), Undine (water), Sylph (air), and Salamander (fire).
Behavior: Can summon their element into reality. A Salamander could shoot fire balls. A Gnome can cause earthquakes. An Undine can start tidal waves. Said to be longer lived than man but ceased existence upon death.
Habitat: Worldwide?
Is It Dangerous?: Well, though occasionally described as nice, they are often portrayed as evil or unkind. So make what you will. Also, while they are mischievous and like to play, they tend to cause disasters.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how.

 

108. Jormungand

Jormungand is another of Loki's monstrous children that is so large his body forms a circle around the entirety of Midgard. Of course, at Raganarok, he and Thor will kill each other.

Jormungand is another of Loki’s monstrous children that is so large his body forms a circle around the entirety of Midgard. Of course, at Raganarok, he and Thor will kill each other after he gets rid of all life with his poisonous breath first.

Type: Serpent, Sea Monster, Ouroburos
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Enormous snake with huge fangs and a flat tail. Basically is so large that he can circle Midgard and grasp his own tail.
Behavior: Solitary and is always in a bad mood. Spends much of his time biting his own tail until Raganarok.
Habitat: Oceans across the world.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. His huge fangs could spit deadly venom which and is capable of exhaling poisonous gas that could kill all living creatures. Also could cause natural disasters whenever he pleased.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell, no. Besides, he’s Loki’s son. Yes, that Loki.
How to Get Rid of It: Destined to die at Raganarok. He and Thor are said to kill each other. Yes, he kills Thor as well as practically any creature that doesn’t drown.

 

109. Skunk Ape (a. k. a. Swamp Ape)

Now the Skunk Ape is seen as a Bigfoot from Florida which lives in the Everglades. However, it gives off a stench so foul that you wouldn't want to go anywhere near it. Of course, this Indian probably has no sense of smell to be that close.

Now the Skunk Ape is seen as a Bigfoot from Florida which lives in the Everglades. However, it gives off a stench so foul that you wouldn’t want to go anywhere near it. Of course, this Indian probably has no sense of smell to be that close.

Type: Cryptid, Humanoid
From: United States
Features: Large body covered in orange fur with glowing eyes of either red or green. Bipedal. Said to be 8ft tall and 300lbs. Has very long forearms and an unbelievably horrifying stench.
Behavior: Said to roll itself in the bodies of dead animals so humans could stay away from it. Solitary and nocturnal. Probably omnivorous and very strong.
Habitat: The Everglades in Florida.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it’s smell may make you pass out but that’s about it as far as we know.
Can It Be Domesticated?: I don’t think you’d want to.
How to Get Rid of It: You’d probably just want to take a picture upon seeing it. Yet, you might want to protect your nose.

 

110. Lich

When researching for a Lich, I can't help but remark on how similar this creature is to Lord Voldemort. I mean Voldemort is sort of an undead entity and powerful magician known to commit evil deeds to achieve eternal life. Yet, I'm not sure if Voldemort could command legions of undead though.

When researching for a Lich, I can’t help but remark on how similar this creature is to Lord Voldemort. I mean Voldemort is sort of an undead entity and powerful magician known to commit evil deeds to achieve eternal life. Yet, I’m not sure if Voldemort could command legions of undead though.

Type: Undead, Spirit, Humanoid
From: Various Tales
Features: Skeletal looking and cadaverous. Often portrayed wearing a black cloak and carrying a staff. Sometimes depicted with armor.
Behavior: Extremely clever and capable of shape shifting as well as other magical powers. Can easily control other undead entities and often uses them as soldiers or servants. Very powerful and tends to be immortal out of its own choice. Usually tend to be magicians and wizards who used dark magic to prolong life or live forever.
Habitat: Worldwide.
Is It Dangerous?: Hell, yes. Is extremely powerful and capable of unimaginable evil and destruction. Will trick and empower any opposing human and any other force it encounters. Serves no one and if it joins forces, it’s always to execute one of its own selfish and devious schemes. Never trust one.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Does Lord Voldemort qualify? Seriously, he was defeated and much of this entry basically describes him. Yet, it helps to understand how a Lich would get to its present state as known in the Harry Potter books.

 

111. Ogopogo

Known as the "Loch Ness Monster of Canada" the Ogopogo hasn't been as well known outside its native Canada. Still, if you live in North America and can't afford to go to Loch Ness, I'm sure a trip to Lake Okanagan is a suitable alternative.

Known as the “Loch Ness Monster of Canada” the Ogopogo hasn’t been as well known outside its native Canada. Still, if you live in North America and can’t afford to go to Loch Ness, I’m sure a trip to Lake Okanagan is a suitable alternative.

Type: Water Monster, Serpent, Cryptid
From: Native American Legend
Features: Large serpent with big pointy horns and seal like flippers. Said to be between 40-50ft long. Appearances may vary.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Lake Okanagan in British Columbia in Canada. Said to dwell in an underwater cave.
Is It Dangerous?: Always waiting to feast on whatever crosses its path. The shores of Monster Island are said to have been the display of leftover blood and scattered bones of its victims.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Local tribes would through dead fish or cattle to safely cross the lake to appease it. In the 1900s, crossing ferries were said to be armed. Still, even these techniques don’t always work. Nevertheless, you can always take a picture of it and send it to the History Channel or National Geographic.

 

112. Mokele-Mbembe

The Mokele-Mbembe is a cryptid that has inspired many a futile expedition to the African Congo in search for it. Still, this doesn't stop cable TV in the US from trying to film it while braving mosquitoes.

The Mokele-Mbembe is a cryptid that has inspired many a futile expedition to the African Congo in search for it. Still, this doesn’t stop cable TV in the US from trying to film this living dinosaur while braving mosquitoes and hippos.

Type: Water Monster, Cryptid, Living Dinosaur
From: African Folklore
Features: Large body with long neck. Said to be as big as an elephant or 15-30ft long as well as brownish gray. Has a row of short spikes protruding from the back of its neck. Some accounts say it resembles a sauropod while others compare its looks to a rhinoceros or elephant.
Behavior: Solitary and clearly wants to be left alone. Territorial herbivore that is said to appear at sunrise and sunset.
Habitat: The Congo River in Central Africa.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it won’t eat you but that’s about it. Then again, being an herbivore should give no indication that it’s safe, especially in a continent known for many mean plant eaters that do attack people.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Don’t even think about it.
How to Get Rid of It: You wouldn’t want to get rid of this monster. I’m sure if you encounter it, the folks at National Geographic, Syfy, the Discovery Channel, or the History Channel might want to do a special.

 

113. Gogmagog

While Gogmagog may have been able to wipe away armies with brute force, he wasn't very savvy with battle tactics. Of course, this proved his undoing according to Geoffrey of Monmouth.

While Gogmagog may have been able to wipe away armies with brute force, he wasn’t very savvy with battle tactics. Of course, this proved his undoing according to Geoffrey of Monmouth.

Type: Humanoid
From: English Folklore
Features: Distorted human like body and twice the size like 13ft tall. Has bulging muscles. Wore animal skins with the heads and claws still attached to keep warm.
Behavior: Said to be extremely powerful and the combined strength of 20 men. May have been the son of a demon. Not very battle savvy and used simple weapons.
Habitat: England.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, since his story was written during the Middle Ages where giants were said to be known for terrorizing villages, I would say yes.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Thrown off a cliff in a duel by Corineus.

 

114. Echidna

This is how the "Mother of All Monsters" Echidna gets dressed.... for dinner. I'm sure she likes to chomp on a man's strong bicep muscles. Still, it's strange that a cute little monotreme is named after this viper lady.

This is how the “Mother of All Monsters” Echidna gets dressed…. for dinner. I’m sure she likes to chomp on a man’s strong bicep muscles. Still, it’s strange that a cute little monotreme is named after this viper lady.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid, Serpent
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Has an upper half of a beautiful woman and a lower half of a serpent. Extremely beautiful from the waist up. Sometimes depicted with more than one snake on her lower body or with wings. May have speckled skin.
Behavior: More or less remembered for her destructive children with Typhon and attacking Olympus with her husband but Zeus kept them at bay (she’s not called “Mother of Monsters” for nothing). Yet, her and Typhon seem to have a great relationship. May be part nymph.
Habitat: Greece. Lives in a cave in a hollow rock after Typhon was sealed at Mt. Etna.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes despite having a spiked egg laying mammal from Australia named after her that’s quite cute. Known to entice men with her tantalizing attractiveness while concealing her lower half so she could lure them in the darkness to kill and devour.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Murdered by the 100 eyed giant Argus Panoptes in her sleep.

 

115. Ahuizotl

Sure this dog may look pretty cute but keep in mind that it has an appetite for human flesh and tends to drag its victims to a watery death by drowning.

Sure this dog may look pretty cute but keep in mind that it has an appetite for human flesh and tends to drag its victims to a watery death by drowning.

Type: Hybrid, Water Monster
From: Aztec Mythology
Features: Dog and monkey cross with 5 hands. Small with black, shiny, and smooth skin. Has a long tail.
Behavior: Hands are very agile and capable of manipulation like those of a monkey and tail is very powerful.
Habitat: Near Lake Texcoco.
Is It Dangerous?: Hell yes. Has a vicious appetite for human parts and has a particular liking for nails, eyes, and teeth. Leaves leftover corpses completely unscathed except toothless with empty eye sockets and mutilated digits. Waits for a meal by hiding in a watery cave weeping like an abandoned infant. Passerby curious hikers who found themselves a little too close to the water ‘s edge would be snatched by its long powerful tail and additional creepy hand and dragged to a watery death.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

116. Lamia

Now I know Lamia is a monstrous humanoid creature hybrid known to kill children. Yet, somehow I have to feel bad for her since her affair with Zeus led Hera to force her to devour her kids and be turned into this. Seriously, what the fuck, Hera?

Now I know Lamia is a monstrous humanoid creature hybrid known to kill children. Yet, somehow I have to feel bad for her since her affair with Zeus led Hera to force her to devour her kids and be turned into this. Seriously, what the fuck, Hera?

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Has woman’s head, scaly body, four legs, and a tail. In some stories, she has a body of a serpent and has her eyes removed by Zeus. Resembles more of a mermaid in Spanish mythology.
Behavior: Was once a Libyan Queen who had an affair with Zeus that led Hera forcing her to eat any children she had with the king of Mount Olympus. Is unable to close her eyes forever and is eternally haunted by the images of dead children.
Habitat: Libya.
Is It Dangerous?: Not in Spanish mythology in which she’s only angered when you try to steal her golden hair combs. In Greek mythology however, she has been cursed with an insatiable taste for kiddie flesh. In other stories, she just uses her beauty to lure young men to feed on their blood.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how. Seriously, we’re not sure.

 

117. Nuckelavee

Now a Nuckelavee may seem to have a form of centaur yet it is basically skin less and a creature of sheer terror. His breath could doom a village to starvation and plague. Let's just say you wouldn't want to go near it.

Now a Nuckelavee may seem to have a form of centaur yet it is basically skin less and a creature of sheer terror. His breath could doom a village to starvation and plague. Let’s just say you wouldn’t want to go near it.

Type: Hybrid, Sea Monster, Divine Horse
From: Orkney Folklore
Features: Skinless monster that resembles a centaur or a man on horse. Has an enlarged head and its head, veins, and tendons are all exposed. Has black blood as well as a gaping mouth with a long black tongue and sharp teeth.
Behavior: Has powerful muscles. Solitary.
Habitat: Great Britain. Prefers stale and stagnate waters.
Is It Dangerous?: Absolutely. Has diseased, rancid, and deadly breath that could wilt crops, spread plague, and sicken livestock while on one of his rampages. One of the more malevolent monsters in the Scottish Islands.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Swim in a stream of running water. It’s the only way you could escape him.

 

118. Peryton

Perytons may seem like graceful creatures but keep in mind that they aren't vegetarians and have to kill one human being to appease their Atlantian gods. So to get rid of one, you have to let it kill you.

Perytons may seem like graceful creatures but keep in mind that they aren’t vegetarians and have to kill one human being to appease their Atlantian gods. So to get rid of one, you have to let it kill you.

Type: Hybrid, Divine Bird
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Head of a deer with wings of an eagle. Has sharp teeth and long razor like fangs as well as sharp pointy antlers. May have front legs of a stag but hind legs of a bird.
Behavior: Used to be the inhabitants of Atlantis until it sank into the Atlantic Ocean but they were unable to find their souls again.
Habitat: Mediterranean Sea.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, their main objective pertains to killing a human being to regain favor with the Atlantian gods. Are constantly stalking people to kill them so their souls could be at ease.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, if you want to get rid of one, you’d have to let it kill you.

 

119. Typhon (a. k. a. Typheus, Tyhaon, or Typhos)

Typhon was one of the fiercest monsters in Greek Mythology. When he and his wife Echidna tried to attack Mount Olympus after the Titans were imprisoned, all the gods were terrified of him but Zeus. Of course, thanks to Zeus, Typhon would be eternally sealed in Mount Etna.

Typhon was one of the fiercest monsters in Greek Mythology. When he and his wife Echidna tried to attack Mount Olympus after the Titans were imprisoned, all the gods were terrified of him but Zeus. Of course, thanks to Zeus, Typhon would be eternally sealed in Mount Etna.

Type: Hybrid, Serpent
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Enormous multi-headed monster with wings and serpent’s body. Once described as having heads of all dragons on his arms and a snake head through his neck though he’s mostly depicted with one human head. Bottom half was said to consist of viper coils which made a hissing noise. Whole body was said to be covered in wings. Appearances vary by description.
Behavior: Best known for fathering a bunch of monstrous kids with Echidna (thus being “Father of All Monsters”) and going to war against Zeus after the latter imprisoned the Titans.
Habitat: Greece. Sealed in a cave at Mount Etna.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Oozes with venom from his mouths while lava spews from his eyes. Was so infamous that most of the gods on Mount Olympus fled and Zeus had to take him on all by himself. Also, said to have such an explosive temper that he starts eruptions on Mt. Etna.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Sealed in Mount Etna by Zeus after he tried to attack Mount Olympus.

 

120. Piasa

The Piasa is a legendary creature from Mississippian culture with a cliff image that was found by a French priest Father Jacques Marquette in 1673. However, we're not sure whether mythology from it was either ancient or just made up by a guy named John Russell.

The Piasa is a legendary creature from Mississippian culture with a cliff image that was found by a French priest Father Jacques Marquette in 1673. However, we’re not sure whether mythology from it was either ancient or just made up by a guy named John Russell. Still looks pretty cool.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid, Dragon, Divine Bird
From: Native American Legend
Features: Has a face of an angry bearded man, large antlers from its head, bat like (or bird like) wings, and four legs. Said to have a mouthful of sharp pointy teeth and powerful talons on its hind legs. Also said to be covered in scales and have a scorpion tail. Appearances vary.
Behavior: Very strong that it can easily carry a bison with its huge talons to its home in the high cliffs.
Habitat: Along the Mississippi River in the United States.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, for once the Illini arrived it seemed to develop a taste for human flesh that the people needed to do something about it.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, a chief managed to get his people to trap the monster and shoot it with poison arrows while he acted as bait.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 7 – Nymph to Sarimanok

Mythological creatures can come in all shapes and sizes yet in stories they tend to be cast as the villainous monsters that terrorize villages, has a taste for humans and livestock, and what not. Still, it seems everyone likes to see heroes fighting monsters of one sort or another. Nevertheless, a lot of these creatures are dangerous such as dragons, serpents, and sea monsters, even though they may seem real cool. Still, in this selection, we’ll explore monsters like the six headed Scylla and the giant whirlpool Charybdis from Greek Mythology as well as the Nymph whose personality may vary. We’ll also take a look at fiends like the Headless Horseman you remember from “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” the Succubus, the Jiang Shi from China, the Grim Reaper, the Skeletal Warrior from Ancient Rome, and the Dhampir from the Balkans. On the urban legend angle we’ll see beasts like the British Beast of Bodmin, the Waheela from Canada, and the Lusca from Caribbean Mythology. And last but not least, we’ll examine the Ningyo from Japan which is a Japanese mermaid, the European Fairy, and the Sarimanok from the Philippines which is mostly depicted funky colored chicken. So now without further adieu, I bring you more legendary creatures for your enjoyment.

 

91. Nymph

Nymphs appear a lot in Greek Mythology and have a wide range of personalities. Many of them tend to serve as the companions and assistants to the gods and heroes. Yet, they are a diverse group of beings with a lot of different functions that would take up a whole blog post of its own.

Nymphs appear a lot in Greek Mythology and have a wide range of personalities. Many of them tend to serve as the companions and assistants to the gods and heroes. Yet, they are a diverse group of beings with a lot of different functions that would take up a whole blog post of its own.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Usually are nubile as well as beautiful young maidens and are nature deities. There are several different types like Nereids, Naiads, Dryads, Oreads, Oceanids, and others.
Behavior: Love to dance and sing as well as are allegedly sexually promiscuous, but this doesn’t apply to all of them (there are many legends in which they weren’t as with Daphne). Are immortal but can reproduce and die from unnatural causes (as with Eurydice). Are usually handmaidens or sex partners to many of the gods. Target of satyrs.
Habitat: Any natural setting in Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they can be if you refuse to have sex with them or honor their patron god as in Orpheus’ case in some legends. Also can turn into other monsters.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they’re humanoid and work for the Greek gods so, no.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, just because they’re technically immortal doesn’t mean you can’t kill them for they can be murdered.

 

92. Ningyo

While western mermaids can be described as having a human upper body and a fish tail, the Ningyo can have a varying amount of human and fish features depending on the story. Sometimes they just resemble a fish with a human face or be seen as hideously ugly or deformed otherworldly nightmares.

While western mermaids can be described as having a human upper body and a fish tail, the Ningyo can have a varying amount of human and fish features depending on the story. Sometimes they just resemble a fish with a human face or be seen as hideously ugly or deformed otherworldly nightmares. Let’s say that the Japanese mermaids don’t fit the traditional stereotype.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid, Sea Monster
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Basically they look like mermaids, except their descriptions tend to vary. Some describe it as a giant fish with a human face and a full head of hair. Sometimes depicted with horns or fangs. Sometimes portrayed as ugly or resemble as a human with scaly arms and clawed hands akin to the Creature of the Black Lagoon. At times can be seen as more human but have distorted demonic features, alabaster skin, and voices like flutes or song birds. Tend to portrayed as a Japanese mermaid though.
Behavior: Tend to warn humans about potential disasters and good fortune. Also can shape shift as well as live for a very long time like 800 years. Could cry tears of pearls. Omnivorous.
Habitat: Pacific Ocean and off the Japanese coast.
Is It Dangerous?: Usually helpful creatures but some legends do have them lure people into the ocean to kill them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not since they’re part human.
How to Get Rid of It: Capture on in a net or have it wash ashore without water.

 

93. Charybdis

In the Strait of Messina sailors had to face a tough decision between Scylla and Charybdis, both which would bring harm. Charybdis was known to suck in ships and spit them out. Let's say that Odysseus was lucky to grab onto that fig tree.

In the Strait of Messina sailors had to face a tough decision between Scylla and Charybdis, both which would bring harm. Charybdis was known to suck in ships and spit them out. Let’s say that Odysseus was lucky to grab onto that fig tree.

Type: Hybrid, Sea Monster
From: Greek Mythology
Features: A giant whirlpool or basically a sea monster that creates a giant whirlpool.
Behavior: Solitary. May have been a nymph but was turned into a sea monster for stealing one Hercules’ sheep.
Habitat: The Strait of Messina between Sicily and Italy.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, she’s a deadly giant whirpool known to swallow waters into the sea and thrust them back 3 times a day. Any ship caught in this devastating whirlpool would be totally screwed. If you can grab onto something like a tree, you may survive.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m afraid you can’t. However, Odysseus did manage to survive by clinging on a fig tree when his raft was swallowed up.

 

94. Scylla

Opposite of Charybdis was Scylla which was a cave dwelling and six headed sea monster. If you wish to pass her, you'd have to give up six of your sailors. Of course, Odysseus tried to have her mom intervene but lost six sailors anyway.

Opposite of Charybdis was Scylla which was a cave dwelling and six headed sea monster. If you wish to pass her, you’d have to give up six of your sailors. Of course, Odysseus tried to have her mom intervene but lost six sailors anyway. Imagine if that monster worked as a toll booth operator for the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Hey, anything’s better than six men isn’t it?

Type: Hybrid, Sea Monster
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Has six heads with very long necks that stretch from her cave. Depictions of heads vary in appearance. Sometimes portrayed with tentacles.
Behavior: Solitary. May have been a nymph but was turned into a monster over a love affair or something.
Habitat: The Strait of Messina between Italy and Sicily.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. She was known to devour six sailors with each of her six heads. Odysseus lost six of his sailors this way.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Odysseus didn’t actually do anything but he just asked her mom Crataeis from pouncing on his ship more than once. Yet, she did manage to devour six of his men though.

 

95. Beast of Bodmin (a. k. a. Beast of Bodmin Moor)

The Beast of Bodmin Moor is a little known cryptid from Britain which has been rumored to mutilate livestock. While experts doubt its existence, it didn't stop a big cat skull to turn up (which was found to be a hoax).

The Beast of Bodmin Moor is a little known cryptid from Britain which has been rumored to mutilate livestock. While experts doubt its existence, it didn’t stop a big cat skull to turn up (which was found to be a hoax).

Type: Cryptid, Abnormal Animal
From: Great Britain
Features: A large black panther with red eyes. Sometimes depicted as a dog or a cat.
Behavior: Solitary and active 24/7.
Habitat: The Bodmin area of England.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it’s been known to attack and mutilate livestock. Might’ve slaughtered 24 people in a jail in 1515. So yes.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

96. Headless Horseman

While best known as the scary ghost that drove out Ichabod Crane from Sleepy Hollow, the Headless Horseman has been a motif in European Folklore since the Middle Ages. Has appeared in the poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" as well as in the tales of the Brothers Grimm.

While best known as the scary ghost that drove out Ichabod Crane from Sleepy Hollow, the Headless Horseman has been a motif in European Folklore since the Middle Ages. Has appeared in the poem “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” as well as in the tales of the Brothers Grimm.

Type: Spirit, Undead
From: Celtic and Germanic Mythology (though most famous in Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”)
Features: Basically a headless ghost man on a horse. May have something to stand in for his head like a gold object or a jack o’lantern.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Spends a lot of his time searching for his missing head.
Habitat: Europe and the United States (particularly Sleepy Hollow in New York). Tends to live in graveyards.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, according to what happened to Ichabod Crane who was pursued by one on Halloween. Actually we’re not sure whether he died or just skipped town. In Celtic Mythology, it causes a death as soon as it stops riding and calls out a name.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: Try to find his head. Oh, wait, you can’t. Maybe have him chase you through a bridge at a town entrance since he’s incapable of crossing one. Then again, he threw his pumpkin head to Ichabod.

 

97. Succubus

Sure she may look appealing but guys, any sexual intercourse with a succubus could result in sleep paralysis. If a man has sex with a succubus often enough, he could die and suffer eternal damnation as a result. Same goes with women who encounter an incubus which may result in a demon child or Merlin.

Sure she may look appealing but guys, any sexual intercourse with a succubus could result in sleep paralysis. If a man has sex with a succubus often enough, he could die and suffer eternal damnation as a result. Same goes with women who encounter an incubus which may result in a demon child or Merlin.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Middle Eastern and European Folklore
Features: Sexually appealing human body of a woman and may have demonic features like bat wings. Used to be portrayed being hideously disfigured and having 3 sets of breasts and talon like nails. Descriptions vary from legend and appear most pleasing to their intended victims. Male counterpart is Incubus.
Behavior: They are capable of super speed, strength, and stamina. Can shape shift as well as appear in dreams and are immortal.
Habitat: Worldwide and Hell.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh yes. Feed off of souls of young men in their sleep. Victims are said to feel something sitting on their nether region one night and drained, unable to move, and petrified after experiencing a wonderful erotic dream the night before. Repeated sexual activity with one may result in health deterioration and/or death.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in Hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Go to sleep wearing a cross necklace or crucifix. That, or don’t go to sleep at all for a while.

 

98. Jiang Shi (a. k. a. Jiangshi)

The Jiang Shi is basically a Chinese cross between a vampire and a zombie. Like vampires, they're  dressed in aristocratic that is outdated by at least 100 years. Yet, like a zombie it doesn't really have much of personality since it can't speak. Still, wouldn't do well in Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video since it can only move by hopping with its arms outstretched.

The Jiang Shi is basically a Chinese cross between a vampire and a zombie. Like vampires, they’re dressed in aristocratic that is outdated by at least 100 years. Yet, like a zombie it doesn’t really have much of personality since it can’t speak. Still, wouldn’t do well in Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video since it can only move by hopping with its arms outstretched.

Type: Undead, Humanoid
From: Chinese Mythology
Features: A reanimated corpse with long strong fingernails. Tend to wear very old fashion clothes since they only wake up every hundred years. May have greenish white skin and a long prehensile tongue. Kind of a Chinese version of a vampire or zombie. Appearances vary. Depicted in the fashion of the dynastic Chinese nobility.
Behavior: Moves around with a stiff hopping gait and arms outstretched. Created when the soul refuses to leave a deceased’s body due to improper death, suicide, or just the desire to cause trouble. Have no higher consciousness such as independent thought. Can’t see, speak, or hear so they locate their prey with their sense of smell or breathing detection.
Habitat: China and Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. Known to hop around and kill the living and absorbing their life essence.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not. They’re human, dead, and dangerous.
How to Get Rid of It: Knock it over and it won’t get up. In Japanese legend, if you can hold your breath, you can escape them. You can also ward them off by writing a special spell on thin yellow paper using chicken blood as ink and stick it to its forehead. Another method is throwing rice in their tracks because these creatures can’t pass until they’ve counted every single grain. Mirrors, rooster calls, items made from peach tree wood, Jujube seeds, Azuki beans, Ba gua signs, handbells, axes, brooms, toadstools, and stonemason’s awls are also useful. Same goes for thread stained with black ink, fire, hooves of a black donkey, the I Ching, the Tong Shu, and blood of a black dog.

 

99. Grim Reaper (a. k. a. Angel of Death, Spectre of Death, or Death)

In Western society the Grim Reaper has served as a personification of death. He is known to show up when someone is nearing the last few minutes of life. You may try to get out of it but if you do, it won't be for long. And if you play chess with the Grim Reaper, you'll lose.

In Western society the Grim Reaper has served as a personification of death. He is known to show up when someone is nearing the last few minutes of life. You may try to get out of it but if you do, it won’t be for long. And if you play chess with the Grim Reaper, you’ll lose.

Type: Spirit, Undead, Humanoid
From: 16th Century European Legend
Features: Usually depicted as a skull face wearing a black cloak and hood. Is usually seen carry a scythe or hourglass. Sometimes accompanied by a raven or black crow. Yet, in The Seventh Seal, he resembles a young Max von Sydow. Has hidden wings so he could fly.
Behavior: Very smart second to God and will even beat the best grandmasters in a game of chess. Yet, some stories have him tricked, bribed, or outwitted to retain someone’s life. Can teleport, use telekinesis, and rip out someone’s soul if he or she is condemned to Hell. Could sense living and dead people in his midst. Solitary and active 24/7.
Habitat: Worldwide. Usually hangs out in old folks homes, crime ridden neighborhoods, Third World countries, and hospitals.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, he usually doesn’t show up until it’s your time to die so you can’t really say he’s dangerous. Then again, there are tales in which he could cause the victim’s death.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t. He’s Death so you can’t get rid of or avoid him. Even if you can outwit, trick, or bribe him, he will be back. If he shows up after you, just accept your fate and join him.

 

100. Waheela (a. k. a. Bear Dog)

While the Waheela in this picture may seem happily domesticated by this wolfskin wearing woman in this painting, remember that its home is translated into "The Headless Valley" because of the mysterious decapitations that took place there. Still, it's usually the beast to blame. You don't want to domesticate that, would you?

While the Waheela in this picture may seem happily domesticated by this wolfskin wearing woman in this painting, remember that its home is translated into “The Headless Valley” because of the mysterious decapitations that took place there. Still, it’s usually the beast to blame. You don’t want to domesticate that, would you?

Type: Cryptid, Hybrid
From: Canada
Features: Resembles a cross between a bear and a wolf. Once described as a wolf on steroids with shorter legs. Depictions may vary.
Behavior: Travel in groups of two or three. Said to be capable of supernatural powers and live for over 10,000 years.
Habitat: The Nahanni Valley in the Northwest Territories of Canada.
Is It Dangerous?: It’s habitat is also known as “The Headless Valley” because of the mysterious deaths this creature may have been responsible for resulted in bodies found that had missing heads.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how.

 

101. Lusca

No, that's not a sharkoctopus created in some lab experiment but close. It's actually a Lusca from Caribbean Mythology said to live in the blue holes in the Bahamas. Let's say just this monster needs its own franchise if you know what I mean.

No, that’s not a sharkoctopus created in some lab experiment but close. It’s actually a Lusca from Caribbean Mythology said to live in the blue holes in the Bahamas. Let’s say just this monster needs its own franchise if you know what I mean.

Type: Hybrid, Sea Monster, Cryptid
From: Caribbean Folklore
Features: Gigantic and cross between a shark and an octopus. Described as having a shark’s head and huge octopus tentacles. Said to be between 75-200ft. Tales range from them being portrayed as multi-headed monsters, dragon like beasts, evil entities, or some type of extremely large eels.
Behavior: Can change color and blend in to hide their surroundings.
Habitat: Blue holes found in the waters around the Bahamas.
Is It Dangerous?: Known to surge out and attack out of blue holes. Said to have entire ships sunk in such blue holes in giant whirlpools only have the wreckage float back after. Some have never returned. Known to terrorize fishermen and other inhabitants.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Have it wash ashore? Torpedoes?

 

102. Fairy

Like nymphs, fairies can come in all shapes and sizes but they're usually depicted small with insect wings as well as be in the form of pretty women. Still, they have appeared in everything in Western literature from Shakespeare, King Arthur, Rudyard Kipling, and Peter Pan.

Like nymphs, fairies can come in all shapes and sizes but they’re usually depicted small with insect wings as well as be in the form of pretty women. Still, they have appeared in everything in Western literature from Shakespeare, King Arthur, Rudyard Kipling, and Peter Pan.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid, Imp
From: Western European Mythology
Features: Human like that’s usually very small and portrayed with insect or butterfly wings. Yet, can be tall, glowing, and angelic. Said to be dead beings, an intelligent species, or demoted angels. Appearances may vary.
Behavior: Have magical powers. May travel in groups or be solitary. At best can be regarded as blessed and holy, eager to seek help from humans in return of kindness with gifts and favors. At worst can be harassing hordes to travelers and lead people astray.
Habitat: Gardens and woodlands.
Is It Dangerous?: Can range from benevolent to malicious. So it greatly depends on the story. At worst, can be known as anything from pranksters to kidnapping children and the elderly.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Once again, depends on the story. Still, even good fairies should be treated with respect.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure if you want to or can.

 

103. Skeletal Warrior

While some skeletons can bring reminders of death and mortality, there are those in undead armies that bring death to people and seem almost indestructible.

While some skeletons can bring reminders of death and mortality, there are those in undead armies that bring death to people and seem almost indestructible.

Type: Undead, Humanoid
From: Ancient Romany Mythology
Features: Weapon wielding humanoid skeleton. Could be armed with daggers, helmets, swords, shields, and spears. Said to be remains of dead heroes and soldiers from previously destroyed armies.
Behavior: Have an arsenal consisting of any weapons by a living soldier of battle from any army that ever existed. Travel in groups. Have supernatural strength and can use magic.
Habitat: Wherever they are called upon by evil magic.
Is It Dangerous?: Have an inhuman strength to conquer all who oppose them. Seen as omens of death.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Only by evil magicians. According to Ancient Roman mythology, they could be bodyguards of the gods.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how or if they can. Perhaps destroy the person who summoned them.

 

104. Dhampir

Dhampirs are basically children of vampires and humans who don't lead very nice lives. They usually tend to have uneasy tormented childhoods, have no permanent residence, and usually become vampire slayers because it's one of a few good avenues for employment. Also tend to die horribly in some stories.

Dhampirs are basically children of vampires and humans who don’t lead very nice lives. They usually tend to have uneasy tormented childhoods, have no permanent residence, and usually become vampire slayers because it’s one of a few good avenues for employment. Also tend to die horribly in some stories.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid, Undead
From: Balkan Folklore
Features: Offspring of a human and a vampire. Albanian legends say that they untamed dark or black hair and lack a shadow. Bulgarian Folklore states that they are very dirty from having a soft body, no nails, and bones as well as a deep mark on the back like a tail. They may also have larger than normal ears, eyes, and noses. Sometimes said to have a slippery-jelly like body and only live a short life.
Behavior: Usually nomads who may have rejected their vampire/human blood. Yet, they have a lot of powers associated with vampirism like enhanced senses, psychic powers, and superhuman strength. Many tend to be vampire hunters themselves. May be the only ones to see vampires invisibly. However, they don’t have any vampire weaknesses or watered down.
Habitat: Worldwide.
Is It Dangerous?: Tries not to be, at least to humans. This doesn’t mean they aren’t.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No, they’re actually humans and want to be treated as such. Yet, they could be hired as vampire hunters by villages.
How to Get Rid of It: Though they don’t age after adulthood or die of natural causes, they can be killed. Also, they can be killed with a stake through the heart.

 

105. Sarimanok (a. k. a. Itotoro)

The legendary Sarimanok is a beautiful rainbow colored bird as well as a symbol of the Maranao people of the Philippines. Still, it tends to be depicted as a chicken nonetheless leading some to suspect it as created by someone on psychedelic drugs.

The legendary Sarimanok is a beautiful rainbow colored bird as well as a symbol of the Maranao people of the Philippines. Still, it tends to be depicted as a chicken nonetheless leading some to suspect it as created by someone on psychedelic drugs.

Type: Divine Bird
From: Maranao Mythology (possibly Islamic Legend)
Features: Bird with colorful wings and feathered tail. Sometimes is depicted as a colorful rooster or holding a fish in its beak or talons. Head is decorated with scroll, leaf, and spiral motifs sometimes.
Behavior: Capable of magical powers, shape shifting, and good fortune. May serve as medium to the spirit world via its unseen twin spirit bird Inikadowa.
Habitat: The Mindano Region of the Philippines.
Is It Dangerous?: I’m not so sure but it doesn’t seem to be.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Probably not.
How to Get Rid of It: Since it’s a symbol of the Maranao people of the Philippines that denotes good fortune, I would highly advise against getting rid of this Technicolor chicken.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 6 – Ennedi Tiger to Bunyip

As you’ve seen in my previous posts, there tends to be a lot of legendary creatures that are associated with spirits or the dead like zombies, vampires, ghosts, or wendigos. Some of them are harmless like the Noppera-bo while others not so much. Of course, death can be a scary thing but what’s even scarier is seeing a person you sort of know who’s dead moving around as if still alive. Even scarier than that is your dead grandmother rising out of her grave hungry for your brains. Still, in this selection, we’ll take a look at these other wordly beings like the Angel, the Demon, the Genie, the Krampus, and others. We’ll also explore urban legend creatures like the Ennedi Tiger, the Nandi Bear, and the Mngwa from Africa as well as the Bunyip from Australia and the Snallygaster from the United States. Then we’ll see other legendary creatures like Beowulf‘s Grendel, Fenrir and the Draugr from Norse Mythology, the Tengu from Chinese Legend, and the Kitsune from Japanese Mythology. So for your viewing pleasure, here are some more mythological creatures to see.

 

76. Ennedi Tiger

No, this isn't Diego from Ice Age or a Saber Tooth Tiger. It's actually an Ennedi Tiger from the Ennedi Plateau in Central Africa. Sure it can rip you to shreds but it's a cryptid, you might want to take its picture if you saw it.

No, this isn’t Diego from Ice Age or a Saber Tooth Tiger. It’s actually an Ennedi Tiger from the Ennedi Plateau in Central Africa. Sure it can rip you to shreds but it’s a cryptid, you might want to take its picture if you saw it.

Type: Cryptid, Living Fossil
From: Africa
Features: Basically resembles a saber tooth cat larger than a lion and lacks a tail. Said to be reddish brown with white stripes. Water type has red with white markings and may look more like a walrus or otter with long teeth. Its appearances vary.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Very fierce and could carry large antelope.
Habitat: Sub-Saharan Africa on the Ennedi Plateau near Chad and the Central African Republic. Has two different species with one living in mountains and the other in water.
Is It Dangerous?: Uh, yes, because it’s a large fearsome cat that can tear you to shreds.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how, nor whether we’d want to since it’s a cryptid.

 

77. Nandi Bear

Of course, this creature looks more like a cross between a bear and a hyena. Yet, the Nandi Bear is very aggressive and will kill you in very brutal ways so it could chomp on your brains. Lovely.

Of course, this creature looks more like a cross between a bear and a hyena. Yet, the Nandi Bear is very aggressive and will kill you in very brutal ways so it could chomp on your brains. Lovely.

Type: Cryptid
From: The Nandi People of Africa
Features: Overgrown hyena like beast with one eye. Has long sharp claws and spotted fur. Very muscular.
Behavior: Very fast, agile, and aggressive. Can climb trees to spy and ambush on victims.
Habitat: Kenya.
Is It Dangerous?: Known to be extremely violent and attack its human prey viciously for their brains. Once you see their single eye, there’s no way to escape.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Forget about it, if it goes after you, you’re basically screwed.

 

78. Fenrir

Cry all you want, Fenrir, but there's no way you're going to get out those chains until Raganarok when you'll join your father Loki against the Asgardians in the epic battle that would lead to each other's mutual destruction.

Cry all you want, Fenrir, but there’s no way you’re going to get out those chains until Raganarok when you’ll join your father Loki against the Asgardians in the epic battle that would lead to each other’s mutual destruction.

Type: Abnormal Animal
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Gigantic wolf. Sometimes depicted with horns and giant jaws as well as white.
Behavior: Son of Loki. Solitary.
Habitat: Europe.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. He could kill other Norse gods, let alone humans.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not since he’s Loki’s son. Yes, I mean that Loki.
How to Get Rid of It: Destined to die at Raganarok.

 

79. Grendel

Grendel seems so happy that King Hrothgar hold all those lavish parties at his house despite all the drunken noise and revelry they're making. Of course, this means spending every night for 12 years on an all you can eat buffet of his favorite food: humans. That is, until Beowulf shows up.

Grendel seems so happy that King Hrothgar hold all those lavish parties at his house despite all the drunken noise and revelry they’re making. Of course, this means spending every night for 12 years on an all you can eat buffet of his favorite food: humans. That is, until Beowulf shows up.

Type: Humanoid
From: Beowulf
Features: Giant and deformed troll-like human. Has impenetrable leathery skin, large canine teeth, and long nails at the end of his claw like hands. Sometimes depicted with horns and like something out of Maurice Sendak as well as with hair. Usually portrayed as brown. Still, depictions vary.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Has supernatural strength and absolute lack of fear of death. Also, hates noisy neighbors who like to party at night.
Habitat: Denmark. Hangs out in swamps.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Loves to torture helpless animals yet his greatest hunger is human flesh, especially if they’re partying at King Hrothgar’s place. He crashed his party for human flesh every night for 12 years.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Beowulf basically cut off his arm and had him bleed to death. On to his mom.

 

80. Genie (a. k. a. Djinn or Jinn)

I don't usually use Disney caricature paintings for blog posts on mythology. Yet, since the recent passing of Robin Williams, I couldn't resist using the Genie from Aladdin.

I don’t usually use Disney caricature paintings for blog posts on mythology. Yet, since the recent passing of Robin Williams, I couldn’t resist using the Genie from Aladdin.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Middle Eastern Folklore
Features: Usually depicted with an upper human body and a wispy haze for legs. Tend to be either red or blue. Wardrobe varies but usually in Arab dress.
Behavior: Have free will, can grant wishes. Also, have amazing phenomenal cosmic powers packed into an itty bitty living space. Come in a wide range of personalities.
Habitat: The Middle East or North Africa. Usually reside in a lamp or in a ring. Actually they could live in practically any inanimate object.
Is It Dangerous?: Depends on the genie or who its master is. Bad ones can send sandstorms and kidnap people just for kicks. However, they are unable to kill anyone though.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, not as a pet. Yet, they can grant their masters wishes (which is usually 3). Yet, the wishes sometimes have prohibitions though which may consist of: make people fall in love, killing anyone, or having people come back from the dead.
How to Get Rid of It: C’mon you don’t want to get rid of one if you found it. I mean if I had one, I’ll just wish for a job, to move out of my parents’ house, and perhaps a publishing deal for a book I wrote.

 

81. Angel

Now while the popular imagery of angels is depicted in this picture, the original imagery of them based on what you see in the Bible are pretty funky. For instance, cherub aren't those fat little angels you see in Renaissance paintings. They more or less resemble rock music guitarists than those.

Now while the popular imagery of angels is depicted in this picture, the original imagery of them based on what you see in the Bible are pretty funky. For instance, cherub aren’t those fat little angels you see in Renaissance paintings. They more or less resemble rock music guitarists than those.

Type: Spirit, Celestial Being
From: Worldwide (though mentioned in the Bible).
Features: Usually depicted as human with feathered wings. There are many different types and appearances vary.
Behavior: Very good and have many magical powers and are powerful second to God. Have enhanced senses as well as super strength and speed.
Habitat: Heaven or the celestial regions of the universe.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, maybe that one named Lucifer. However, unless you’re no demon or destined for Hell, they’re usually harmless.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t they’re immortal and have God on their side, well at least the good ones.

 

82. Demon

Who though that such a badass scary guy like the Demonic Lord Metalpants would scream like a little girl while watching The Exorcist? Oh, I forgot he's a demon and was really horrified what the priest did to that evil spirit in the movie.

Who though that such a badass scary guy like the Demonic Lord Metalpants would scream like a little girl while watching The Exorcist? Oh, I forgot he’s a demon and was really horrified what the priest did to that evil spirit in the movie.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Worldwide.
Features: Usually depicted as red with horns and a forked tail. Sometimes seen with bat wings. However, appearances may vary.
Behavior: Almost impossible to kill and capable of all kinds of evil magic. Also are very strong and fast.
Habitat: Hell or the Underworld.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they’re known to possess and rape people as well as get others to do very bad things in exchange for their souls.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in Hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Either get Jesus or an exorcist. Jessica Tate from Soap is a good choice as well as your parish priest. Also, you can use holy water, Solomon’s Key, salt, angelic weapons, and a Devil’s Trap.

 

83. Krampus

So kids, in a lot of places in Europe, if you've been good, you receive a lot of great presents from Santa Claus. If you've been bad, then this guy would take you on a trip to his torture dungeon. Of course, he'll have to kidnap you first.

So kids, in a lot of places in Europe, if you’ve been good, you receive a lot of great presents from Santa Claus for Christmas (or around that time anyway). If you’ve been bad, then this guy would take you on a trip to his torture dungeon. Of course, he’ll have to kidnap you first.

Type: Spirit
From: Northern and Central European Folklore.
Features: Has a goat’s head, red skin, razor sharp teeth, a fur covered body, and an unusually long tongue. About 6ft tall but is constantly hunched over.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Very strong and fast.
Habitat: Europe. Has his own torture chamber in a large cave.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, he’s known to kidnap and torture naughty children. Considered the evil counterpart to Santa Claus.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: Just be good this year and I’m sure you’ll have Santa give you gifts instead of be visited by this guy.

 

84. Boogeyman

Yes, it's a boogeyman in that closet. No, I'm not sure if it works for Monsters Inc. or loves disco music but I will ask.

Yes, it’s a boogeyman in that closet. No, I’m not sure if it works for Monsters Inc. or loves disco music but I will ask.

Type: Spirit, Undead
From: European and American Folklore.
Features: Shadow that takes a shape of a feared monster. Has no specific appearance.
Behavior: Has shape shifting powers. Solitary and nocturnal.
Habitat: Where kids sleep.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, as long as children are well behaved. Or else, if they’ve been bad, then it’s bound to kidnap them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Just don’t feed off fear as well as be good.

 

85. Draugr

No, I'm sure this guy doesn't want you to bring him a shrubbery. He's a Draugr who's from a race of walking dead Viking warriors, not a Knight of Ni. I'm not sure if he'd want anything to do with a shrubbery anyway.

No, I’m sure this guy doesn’t want you to bring him a shrubbery. He’s a Draugr who’s from a race of walking dead Viking warriors, not a Knight of Ni. I’m not sure if he’d want anything to do with a shrubbery anyway.

Type: Undead, Spirit, Humanoid
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Basically they are the ghosts of dead Viking warriors who didn’t make it to Valhalla. Have a strong and decaying stench and can adjust size at will. Described as extremely heavy.
Behavior: Travel in groups as well as think telepathically and subject under the goddess Hel. Have superhuman strength and can enter the dreams of the living. Have some semblance of intelligence as well as guard their treasure in some legends.
Habitat: Land, sea, or the Viking graves.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, they are known for driving living people and animals insane. Also, if one of them or Hel, get you, you can become one of them. Enjoy devouring the flesh and sucking the blood of their victims.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they’re created and controlled by Hel but only by her.
How to Get Rid of It: When a Viking died, their loved ones placed scissors on their chests along with bits of twigs hidden in their clothes. Also, had their big toes tied together. Yet, once they become these creatures, they’re almost unstoppable. Yet, can only be stopped after being completely disabled.

 

86. Mngwa (a. k. a. Nunda)

Sure this may be a pretty feline but remember that the Mngwa is a stealthy and sneaky predator that tends to be out of control. So if you find yourself being chased by one, you're basically screwed.

Sure this may be a pretty feline but remember that the Mngwa is a stealthy and sneaky predator that tends to be out of control. So if you find yourself being chased by one, you’re basically screwed. Seriously, you won’t survive this man-eating cat’s grasp for even natives won’t hunt it.

Type: Cryptid
From: Swahili Hunting Song
Features: Said to be about the size of a pony and as well as resembled a leopard in gray fur. Has huge razor sharp teeth as well as padded paws. Also is said to have creepy yellow eyes.
Behavior: Solitary, nocturnal, and stronger than a lion. Tends to be out of control.
Habitat: Tall grass in the Savannah of Tanzania and Kenya.
Is It Dangerous?: Absolutely, has been a known man-eater and a very stealthy predator said to stalk without a sound.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not in your life.
How to Get Rid of It: No hunter has ever succeeded in killing one. So if you have one chasing you, you’re screwed. Even natives won’t go after it just out of common sense.

 

87. Snallygaster

Yes, that tentacled bird carrying a cow is a Snallygaster, best known for its fight with the Dwayyo. Also, well known for taking large livestock that some Maryland have 7 pointed stars on their barns. Hey, don't ask me for I didn't make up this creature.

Yes, that tentacled bird carrying a cow is a Snallygaster, best known for its fight with the Dwayyo. Also, well known for taking large livestock that some Maryland have 7 pointed stars on their barns. Hey, don’t ask me for I didn’t make up this creature.

Type: Cryptid, Divine Bird, Hybrid
From: United States
Features: Descriptions vary widely though it has giant wings. Earliest incarnations have it as having half-bird features of a siren with the nightmarish features of a ghoul or demon. Other descriptions have it as half-reptile and half-bird with a metallic beak lined with razor sharp teeth and sometimes octopus like tentacles. Later legends have it with a single eye on its forehead and claws like steel hooks sounding like a train whistle. Sometimes depicted as a one eyed dragon.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Very sneaky predator.
Habitat: Between Frederick and Washington Counties in Maryland.
Is It Dangerous?: Said to suck the blood of its victims and go after livestock.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Put a seven-pointed star on your barn and it will avoid devouring your livestock.

 

88. Kitsune

The Kitsune is a beautiful 9 tailed fox of Japanese Legend known for possessing high intelligence and magical powers. Yet, it could also be a trickster as well as be portrayed in stories as a guardian, friend, lover, or wife. Yes, I know it's fucked up but the Japanese didn't come up with the Minotaur did they?

The Kitsune is a beautiful 9 tailed fox of Japanese Legend known for possessing high intelligence and magical powers. Yet, it could also be a trickster as well as be portrayed in stories as a guardian, friend, lover, or wife. Yes, I know it’s fucked up but the Japanese didn’t come up with the Minotaur did they?

Type: Undead, Spirit
From: Japanese Folklore
Features: Fox like with numerous tails. Usually white or black.
Behavior: Has magical powers and is very intelligent. Can change into human form as well as bend time and space.
Habitat: Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, they can be evil and destructive but usually not. Yet, they tend to be vicious pranksters as well as possess people.
Can It Be Domesticated?: I’m not sure but probably not.
How to Get Rid of It: It’s revered in Japan and served as an inspiration for a character on Pokemon so you probably don’t want to get rid of it.

 

89. Tengu

Despite originating in China, the Tengu has more lasting appeal in Japan as well as appears in a lot of its legends. Also, tends to be depicted as red with a big nose.

Despite originating in China, the Tengu has more lasting appeal in Japan as well as appears in a lot of its legends. Also, tends to be depicted as red with a big nose.

Type: Humanoid, Hybrid, Divine Bird, Spirit
From: Chinese and Japanese Mythology
Features: Head of a beaked man with the wings and talons of a large crow. Appearances vary in depiction. There are a few different types.
Behavior: The larger its nose, the more powerful it’s supposed to be. Very mischievous and tend to take the shape of monks to trick travelers as well as serve their victims succulent meals of feces. Can telepathically speak to their victims as well as usually drop them in some foreign land where they remain lost.
Habitat: China and Japan.
Is It Dangerous?: Have a tendency for kidnapping children and were blamed for many unsolved disappearances. In Buddhism, they are harbringers and demons for war.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No since it’s part human.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how on this one.

 

90. Bunyip

Sure there may be a few lush riverbeds and swamps in Australia but you don't want to venture in the waters with this creature giant hanging around, especially since it finds women and children delicious.

Sure there may be a few lush riverbeds and swamps in Australia but you don’t want to venture in the waters with this creature giant hanging around, especially since it finds women and children delicious.

Type: Water Monster, Cryptid
From: Aboriginal Mythology
Features: Very large with huge mouth and crocodile tail. Body can be snake like furry, or human looking. Some accounts describe it as having a dog like face, dark fur, flippers, a horse’s tail, as well as large tusks, and/or horns.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Australia. Prefers marshes and riverbeds.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Known to attack or mutilate anyone who ventures too close to swamps or lakes where they hide and live. Is especially fond of women and children for dinner.
Can It Be Domesticated?: You got to be kidding me.
How to Get Rid of It: Mostly it will get you before you can get it. Then again, Australia doesn’t have a lot of swamps and lakes anyway since most of the country is practically desert.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 5 – Hippogriff to Dwayyo

Some of the legendary creatures depicted in this series are derived from mythological stories, superstitions, and folklore passed on through generations over centuries and have been well represented in the media or in art. Others are cryptozoological creatures alleged to actually exist in contemporary times though its existence has yet to be documented by the scientific community. However, these creatures can also appear in the former category yet many are usually the stuff of urban legend where the lines of truth and fiction are blurred. In this selection, we’ll see cryptids like Spring-heeled Jack and Owlman from Britain, the Dover Demon, the Squonk, and the Dwayyo from the United States, and the Mongolian Death Worm from the Gobi Desert. As for legendary creatures, we’ll take a look at the Ghoul from the Middle East, the Satyr from Greek Mythology, the Cockatrice, the Hippogriff, and the Catolbepas from Ancient Rome, the Wraith and the Fomorian from Ancient European Folklore, the Noppera-bo from Japanese Mythology, and the Wendigo from Native American legend. So without further adieu, here are more legendary creatures for your pleasure.

 

61. Hippogriff

Though best remembered as a creature from Harry Potter, the Hippogriff was first made by Virgil in his Ecologues though it wouldn't receive its name until the 16th century. So J. K. Rowling didn't make this creature up.

Though best remembered as a creature from Harry Potter, the Hippogriff was first made by Virgil in his Ecologues though it wouldn’t receive its name until the 16th century. So J. K. Rowling didn’t make this creature up.

Type: Hybrid, Divine Bird
From: Roman Mythology (yet, it’s most famously featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.)
Features: Head, wings, and claws like an eagle but body like a horse. Well-toned and muscular. Sometimes depicted as having claws like a lion.
Behavior: Faster, stronger, and more intelligent than griffins. Can move as fast as lightning.
Habitat: Egypt, the Middle East, and parts of Europe and Asia
Is It Dangerous?: Not as long as you can treat them with respect. Otherwise, you know what Buckbeak did to Draco Malfoy.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Yes, they can be easily tamed and serve as companions to knights and sorcerers.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, you can behead it or strike it with an air missile. Yet, you probably don’t want to do that, especially if it’s Buckbeak.

 

62. Satyr

Satyrs are best known for being peaceful forest dwelling creatures known for engaging in hedonistic pleasures like music, dance, wine, and sex. In short, they're kind of like the Greek mythological equivalent of hippies. Yet, why is there one in C. S. Lewis Narnia series I have no idea.

Satyrs are best known for being peaceful forest dwelling creatures known for engaging in hedonistic pleasures like music, dance, wine, and sex. In short, they’re kind of like the Greek mythological equivalent of hippies. Yet, why is there one in C. S. Lewis Narnia series I have no idea.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Human upper body with goat like legs and tail. Usually depicted with brown fur and often as male with horns. Often wear a full beard and have long curly hair. Sometimes seen as old and ugly and sometimes not. At times could be depicted as being well endowed or balding.
Behavior: Associated with pipe playing and play a tail piece during festivals honoring Dionysus in Greek myths. Love wine, music, dance, and any kind of pleasure. Often seen pursuing mountain nymphs and trying to seduce them. Still, they are absolutely fearless and has a deep connection with nature.
Habitat: Deep in woods and mountains.
Is It Dangerous?: Only when drunk and/or horny. Still, will only attack in self-defense so don’t try to get on its bad side.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No, for they are humanoid.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how for the Greek myths don’t say. Then again, environmental devastation may do it.

 

63. Cockatrice

Sure this may resemble a dragon with a chicken head. Yet, be warned that this creature is capable of killing you by looking at you, touching you, or even breathing on you. Keep away at all times.

Sure this may resemble a dragon with a chicken head. Yet, be warned that this creature is capable of killing you by looking at you, touching you, or even breathing on you. Keep away at all times.

Type: Hybrid, Dragon
From: Roman Mythology
Features: Head, claws, and wings of a rooster. Has reptile’s body and tail. About as tall as a large rooster. Often depicted as a dragon with a rooster’s head. Tends to be confused with a basilisk.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Europe.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Can terrorize people into an extreme state of panic. Can turn people into stone just by looking at them as well as kill just by touching and breathing on others. Powers of petrification are still active after death. Has a deadly poisonous breath.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Have a weasel or crow go after it. Also, trick the beast into seeing its own reflection. It also doesn’t like roosters either.

 

64. Ghoul

Ghouls are basically zombies which are more persistent predators for brains and have paralyzing touch. They're also capable of shape shifting as well as lure people into the desert to devour.

Ghouls are basically zombies which are more persistent predators for brains and have paralyzing touch. They’re also capable of shape shifting as well as lure people into the desert to devour.

Type: Undead, Humanoid
From: Arabian Folklore
Features: Undead and decomposing human body in an emaciated form. Skin is pale and lifeless while eyes and hair seem that they have never seen daylight. Appearances vary though.
Behavior: Despite being seemingly weak and fragile, they’re actually very strong. Have powerful hands and fingers. Capable of regeneration and shape shifting. Tends to steal coins. Travel in groups and nocturnal.
Habitat: Worldwide. Live in the desert or abandoned places.
Is It Dangerous?: Very capable of tearing a normal healthy human apart in mere seconds. Their hands can make an incredibly deadly grip. Usually tend to eat on kiddie corpses and drink blood but they would take a living human on occasion and they especially like fresh brain matter. Has a paralyzing touch and is a super persistent predator. Seriously, they make zombies seem friendly. If you survive being bitten by one, you become one of them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Kill it with a single swipe of the sword. If you miss swinging it twice, it will come back to life twice as powerful. A light can also help as well as using fire, acid, or decapitation.

 

65. Catolbepas

Now the catoblepas won't eat you but this doesn't mean that it's safe to be around it. After all, it eats poison plants so its breath could either kill you or turn you into stone. Still, this one pictured doesn't seem too happy for some reason.

Now the catoblepas won’t eat you but this doesn’t mean that it’s safe to be around it. After all, it eats poison plants so its breath could either kill you or turn you into stone. Still, this one pictured doesn’t seem too happy for some reason.

Type: Hybrid
From: Ancient Roman Folklore
Features: Has large boar’s head, a small pig’s body, with wings. Sometimes described as having a body of a buffalo or bull with iron like scales along its back. May be depicted with horns. Appearances may vary.
Behavior: Doesn’t see much of anything since its head is so big. Solitary.
Habitat: Ethiopia.
Is It Dangerous?: Has toxic breath due to eating poisonous plants and is capable of killing anything around it. When it sets its eyes on anything living, it turns to stone.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure about that one.

 

66. Wraith

I know this is a ring wraith from Lord of the Rings since it's on a horse. Yet, the dementors from Harry Potter also qualify. Still, these dark spirits usually hunt souls for sport and fill the air with hate, sorrow, and doom. Let's just say, it wouldn't be a good idea to invite a wraith to a Halloween Party, despite being terrifying.

I know this is a ring wraith from Lord of the Rings since it’s on a horse. Yet, the dementors from Harry Potter also qualify. Still, these dark spirits usually hunt souls for sport and fill the air with hate, sorrow, and doom. Let’s just say, it wouldn’t be a good idea to invite a wraith to a Halloween Party, despite being terrifying.

Type: Undead, Spirit
From: Ancient European Folklore
Features: Often portrayed as dark and shadow like entities wearing black hooded cloaks. Arms, legs, and faces tend to be skeletal. Faces could be endless black holes in their hoods. Sometimes appear as dark and shapeless shadows. May be depicted on deadly horses.
Behavior: Travel in hordes and nocturnal. Very intelligent and are super persistent. Always fill the air with hate, sorrow, and doom. Can make a room seem lifeless and cold in seconds. The dementors from Harry Potter can qualify as these.
Habitat: Worldwide but mostly in dark forests and caves.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, my God, yes. These ghostly terrors hunt souls for sport. They are evil to the core draining the life out of anything they touch and leave bodies lifeless without souls. That or the victims become part of their clan. When angry, can unleash powerful waves of energy with their hate and drain entire villages of the will to live and take their souls.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they were hired by Sauron and Azkaban, but you’d have to be morally bankrupt to use these on people.
How to Get Rid of It: Either try to survive until midnight in a place where it can’t get to you or use holy magic. You could also try cutting its head off.

 

67. Fomorian

The Fomorians were considered to be a race of semi-divine spirits in Ancient Ireland, perhaps being the old gods similar to the Greek Titans. Still, they kind of resemble creatures that you'd find at a bar in Mos Eisley. Just saying.

The Fomorians were considered to be a race of semi-divine spirits in Ancient Ireland, perhaps being the old gods similar to the Greek Titans. Still, they kind of resemble creatures that you’d find at a bar in Mos Eisley. Just saying.

Type: Hybrid
From: Celtic Mythology
Features: Large deformed body made up of animal parts. Appearances vary but every way grotesque looking.
Behavior: Travel in groups. Possess magical powers.
Habitat: Ireland.
Is It Dangerous?: Said to have poisonous skin that oozed with deadly sweat, which doomed any person who made contact with one. Known to terrorize the Irish people, destroy armies, and forced them to make child sacrifices.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Driven by Tuatha De Dannan into the sea.

 

68. Noppera-bo

Sure she may be terrifying with no face but this noppera-bo is usually harmless. Yet, that doesn't mean that she's caused an occasional heart attack once in a while.

Sure she may be terrifying with no face but this noppera-bo is usually harmless. Yet, that doesn’t mean that she’s caused an occasional heart attack once in a while.

Type: Spirit, Humanoid
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Human body without a face. Perhaps impersonating someone familiar to the victim.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Japan. Usually around graveyards.
Is It Dangerous?: No, these ghosts are absolutely harmless.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Sorry, but they’re humanoid and could scare the shit out of you.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t. They’re ghosts for God’s sake.

 

69. Spring-heeled Jack

Spring-heeled Jack may wear an outfit similar to Batman but remember he's not known to be associated with good things. In fact, just the opposite. Still, he's one of the better known creatures from Victorian urban legend.

Spring-heeled Jack may wear an outfit similar to Batman but remember he’s not known to be associated with good things. In fact, just the opposite. Still, he’s one of the better known creatures from Victorian urban legend.

Type: Cryptid, Humanoid (may actually be former Cryptid but there were sightings in the Victorian Era. Also, may have inspired Batman in appearance.)
From: 19th century British Folklore
Features: Wears a metal mask to cover his hideous face and breathes blue flames. Has evil glowing eyes and long sharp metal claws. Mask might be part of his face or cover his face after being horribly disfigured with severe burns. Sometimes depicted in a black cape like Batman.
Behavior: Can jump to great heights with extreme speed and ease into surprise attacks or away from authorities. Solitary and nocturnal.
Habitat: England
Is It Dangerous?: Has been reported attacking several young women and men. Said to blow his blue flame in their faces and freeze them with fear. Would later proceed to slash them with his iron claws.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: Sorry, you can’t stop him because he’s always able to escape.

 

70. Wendigo (a. k. a. Windigo or Witiko)

The Wendigo is a very violent creature from Native American legend known to feast on human flesh in snowy forests.  Still, it has been mentioned by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his 1855 Song of Hiawatha. And it is prevalent in a lot of recent media depictions.

The Wendigo is a very violent creature from Native American legend known to feast on human flesh in snowy forests. Still, it has been mentioned by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his 1855 Song of Hiawatha. And it is prevalent in a lot of recent media depictions.

Type: Undead, Humanoid, Spirit
From: Native American Folklore
Features: Has a bone body, sharp crooked teeth, and disfigured face. Has very thin skin and sunken eyes. Said to have a heart of ice visibly seen through the chest pumping. Appearances may vary according to depiction.
Behavior: Solitary and very patient hunter. Said to be formerly human but starved and turned to cannibalism. Known to have the ability to control the weather and bring powerful snowstorms.
Habitat: United States and Canada. Lurks in snowy forests.
Is It Dangerous?: Known for silently stalking its human prey in the snowy forests. Also have the power to summon wild beast to aid in its attacks. Very violent.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely no way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Shatter its icicle heart with a silver stake.

 

71. Dover Demon

The Dover Demon is a strange urban legend creature that was reportedly sighted by two teenagers in 1977 in Dover Massachusetts. Of course, these sightings have ceased for a short period so there's not much to go by. Yet, it's still a good idea for a cheap Halloween costume.

The Dover Demon is a strange urban legend creature that was reportedly sighted by two teenagers in 1977 in Dover Massachusetts. Of course, these sightings have ceased for a short period so there’s not much to go by. Yet, it’s still a good idea for a cheap Halloween costume.

Type: Cryptid, Spirit
From: United States
Features: Watermelon shaped head which is disproportionally large for its body. Has illuminated orange eyes, long, thin arms with slender fingers, as well as sand paper like flesh toned skin. Could be bipedal or walk on all fours. Said to have no nose, no mouth, no ears, and no mouth. Also said to be 3ft tall, chalky skin, and made a blood curdling noise.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal.
Habitat: Dover, Massachusetts. Lives in forests.
Is It Dangerous?: We’re not totally sure.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Probably not.
How to Get Rid of It: If you’ve seen this, you’d want to take a picture of it. Getting rid of it won’t be in your best interests.

 

72. Mongolian Death Worm

No, that's not an intimidating worm monster from Tatooine but close. It's actually a Mongolian Death Worm which may give Genghis Khan a run for his money. Still, someone in Hollywood really should be pitching a monster movie for this guy.

No, that’s not an intimidating worm monster from Tatooine but close. It’s actually a Mongolian Death Worm which may give Genghis Khan a run for his money. Still, someone in Hollywood really should be pitching a monster movie for this guy.

Type: Cryptid
From: Mongolian Mythology
Features: Enormous slimy red worm with long razor sharp fangs. Body is about 2 -5ft long. Resembles a living piece of intestine riddled with visible veins and gooey slime. That or a giant monster parasite.
Behavior: Solitary. Hibernates most of the year except June and July.
Habitat: The Gobi Desert in Mongolia.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes it is. Humans are its favorite prey. Capable of spitting fatal splashes of venom and electricity (even at a distance). Said to make anything it touches turn yellow and corrode. Can emerge from the sands out of nowhere to attack. Touching it causes an instant and painful death.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how at this point. Perhaps drop a bomb on it.

 

73. Squonk

Sure this may seem like an idea pet if you're into that sort of thing. However, the Squonk is known to dissolve into tears and bubbles so to capture it is impossible. Sorry kids. Still, a Pittsburgh based art collective is named after this creature called Squonk Opera.

Sure this may seem like an idea pet if you’re into that sort of thing. However, the Squonk is known to dissolve into tears and bubbles so to capture it is impossible. Sorry kids. Still, a Pittsburgh based performance art collective is named after this creature called Squonk Opera.

Type: Cryptid
From: United States
Features: Has unfitting skin covered in warts and blemishes. Appearances vary.
Behavior: Spends a lot of time weeping and hides in plain sight out of being ashamed for its appearance.
Habitat: The hemlock forests of northern Pennsylvania.
Is It Dangerous?: I haven’t heard anything about it that’s dangerous.
Can It Be Domesticated?: It just dissolves into tears and bubbles when hunters try to capture it. Therefore, impossible.
How to Get Rid of It: It just gets rid of itself by dissolving into tears and bubbles.

 

74. Owlman

Behold, Owlman, a man sized owl that haunts the village of Mawnan in Cornwall, England. Its stare could petrify people with fear for days, sometimes weeks. Still, it's said to be Britain's answer to Mothman in the cryptozoological world.

Behold, Owlman, a man sized owl that haunts the village of Mawnan in Cornwall, England. Its stare could petrify people with fear for days, sometimes weeks. Still, it’s said to be Britain’s answer to Mothman in the cryptozoological world.

Type: Divine Bird, Cryptid
From: British Folklore
Features: Human-sized owl with glowing eyes. Has huge razor sharp talons and a large pointy beak. Sometimes depicted as an owl-man hybrid.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal.
Habitat: Cornwall’s village of Mawnan in England. May live in a church tower.
Is It Dangerous?: Its stare is said to leave whoever encounters it petrified with fear sometimes for days or weeks.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: We’re not sure how. Missiles?

 

75. Dwayyo (a. k. a. Dewayyo or the Maryland Dogman)

The Dwayyo is an urban legend creature in Maryland best known for almost resembling a close relation to Chewbacca as well as its ongoing struggle with the Snallygaster. Hey, it's not like I made this stuff up here. That's what the legend says.

The Dwayyo is an urban legend creature in Maryland best known for almost resembling a close relation to Chewbacca as well as its ongoing struggle with the Snallygaster. Hey, it’s not like I made this stuff up here. That’s what the legend says.

Type: Cryptid, Humanoid
From: United States
Features: Said to be hairy, have a bushy tail, and is sometimes bipedal. Can be depicted as a werewolf, Bear man, or others. Appearances vary.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Enemy of the Snallygaster.
Habitat: Between Middletown and Wolfsville in Maryland.
Is It Dangerous?: Has been known to attack humans according to some news reports.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how. Maybe we should just watch it fight with the Snallygaster.

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 4 – Zombie to Adlet

In my series I have gone over many legendary creatures you’re familiar with as well as quite a few you may or may not have heard before. Then there are some you might know rather well but others, well, wouldn’t know otherwise. Still, virtually all of these creatures are mythical as far as I’m concerned. Yet, if you’re tired of having to pick a scary monster to be for Halloween, then this is the blog series for you. In this selection we’ll go over a few favorites like the Zombie, the Unicorn, the Werewolf, the Vampire, the Leprechaun, the Loch Ness Monster, the Goblin, and the Banshee (though I’m not sure about that one). We’ll also see some creatures that you may not have heard before like the Valkyrie from Norse Mythology, the legendary spirit of La Llorona from Latin America and the American Southwest, the Roc and Leviathan from Middle Eastern Mythology, the legendary Stymphalian Bird from Greek Mythology, the Kongamato from Africa, and the Adlet from Inuit legend. So without further adieu, here are some more legendary creatures from myth and urban legend for your pleasure.

 

46. Zombie

From how I see it, this could either be an artistic representation of a zombie rampage or a bunch of them doing the Michael Jackson "Thriller" dance at a rave.

From how I see it, this could either be an artistic representation of a zombie rampage or a bunch of them doing the Michael Jackson “Thriller” dance at a rave.

Type: Undead, Humanoid
From: Bantu Mythology and Caribbean Folklore
Features: Reanimated human corpses in different stages of composition. Usually depicted as green.
Behavior: Usually travel in groups and active 24/7. Are stronger than the average person and though they may seem slow, they are actually clever predators who know the value of team work. Also have superhuman stamina and are absolutely fearless.
Habitat: Anywhere humans live but particularly graveyards.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. They’re always violent man-eaters searching for new meat and spread disease wherever they go. If bitten by one, you turn into a zombie.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Not on your life.
How to Get Rid of It: Basically you have to decapitate it or aim for its brain. Cuts, blows, bullets, and severed limbs might slow them down but will not stop them. Using fire on them has various effects.

 

47. Unicorn

There's no way anyone could hate these majestic and beautiful creatures, especially little girls and My Little Pony fans. Of course, I hope most My Little Pony fans are little girls. But then again, to each his own.

There’s no way anyone could hate these majestic and beautiful creatures, especially little girls and My Little Pony fans. I mean these legendary creatures are relatively harmless, represent everything wholesome and good, and are associated with rainbows and sparkles. But then again, to each his own. Still, I’m very sure this unicorn is a male since his junk is showing.

Type: Divine Horse
From: Various Mythology and Folklore
Features: Usually horse like with a horn on forehead. Can be of any color but usually white. Tend to be very beautiful. In the past have been described as having a body of a wild ass and being white, read, and black. Sometimes described as having a head of a stag, feet of an elephant, and tail of a boar with a single long black horn. Sometimes depicted with a billy goat’s beard, a lion’s tail, and cloven hooves.
Behavior: Solitary and peaceful. Fast and nimble. Blood may have restorative properties but it’s cursed. Also said to poop in rainbows and sparkles.
Habitat: Worldwide, particularly woodlands.
Is It Dangerous?: Not at all.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Yes, but they’re very difficult to capture. Sometimes can only be trapped by a virgin but good luck finding one.
How to Get Rid of It: You don’t want to get rid of one. Seriously, you don’t.

 

48. Valkyrie

Of course, though many may have heard the name of Valkyrie from that Tom Cruise movie, those familiar with this beauty are opera goers and Richard Wagner fans. Then again, we've all heard "Ride of the Valkyries" at least once. I mean how can you not?

Of course, though many may have heard the name of Valkyrie from that Tom Cruise movie, those familiar with this beauty are opera goers and Richard Wagner fans. Then again, we’ve all heard “Ride of the Valkyries” at least once. I mean how can you not?

Type: Humanoid, Spirit
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Beautiful female warriors. Sometimes depicted with wings or riding a magnificent horse. Often portrayed as carrying a shield, sword, and/or spear. Sometimes may yield a bow and arrow. Usually depicted with blond hair and in armor.
Behavior: Travel in groups. Charged with escorting fallen warriors to Valhalla or the Folkvangr. Absolutely fearless but may be the occasionally instigate battles and engage in them.
Habitat: The Viking world of the gods, particularly Asgard and Valhalla.
Is It Dangerous?: Not really but I really can’t say. Yet, they have been accused as devouring the flesh of the slain.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not. Also, they work for Freyja.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t for they’re immortal.

 

49. Werewolf

Of course, werewolves have been known to howl at the moon at night, especially when the moon is full. Yet, other than being half human and half wolf, yet as to how people become one and what they do varies by culture.

Of course, werewolves have been known to howl at the moon at night, especially when the moon is full. Yet, other than being half human and half wolf, yet as to how people become one and what they do varies by culture. Still, these animals aren’t sexy beasts you might want to sleep with. Well, Remus Lupin may be a possible exception to that but he’s a nice guy who knows his magic.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Ancient European Mythology
Features: Large wolf-like body, long fangs, and glowing eyes. Often humans transformed into wolves whether voluntarily or during the night of a full moon. Can have humanoid bodies and walk on two legs. Have strong teeth and claws. Usually depicted brown or gray and let out a howl at the moon.
Behavior: Often travel in groups and tend to be nocturnal. They are very strong and very fast as well as very good swimmers. Are telepathic, relatively fast healers, and could see in the dark. Capable of learning magic and have increased senses and stamina.
Habitat: Wherever wolves and humans are present at times. Tend to hang out in graveyards where they feast on corpses.
Is It Dangerous?: In human form, most of them aren’t (think Remus Lupin from Harry Potter). Bitten by one in human form and you won’t turn into one. Yet, in wolf form, they are especially dangerous and if they bite you, you can be one of them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not for they are practically people and in wolf form are very dangerous.
How to Get Rid of It: Remove its heart, give it wolfsbane, or shoot it with a silver bullet. Using a weapon blessed by your local church would do nicely if silver bullets aren’t available. Still, they aren’t immortal and will succumb to old age and can be killed in regular ways.

 

50. Vampire

Hardly any legendary creature has generated much media from the West as the vampire. Sure theses bloodsucking creatures may have their fans, but seriously, you don't want to date one.

Hardly any legendary creature has generated much media from the West as the vampire. Sure theses bloodsucking creatures may have their fans, but seriously, you don’t want to date one.

Type: Undead, Humanoid
From: Various Mythology and Folklore
Features: Pale humans with fangs that consume blood. Could be depicted as sexy, aristocratic, or beastly but they don’t reflect in mirrors. Can have pointy ears or bat wings. Can live forever if you let them and usually are portrayed with antiquated fashion sense. Can be depicted from nearly human to rotting corpse.
Behavior: Can be solitary or travel in groups. Sometimes can transform into bats. Often nocturnal. Capable of magic, flight, invisibility, telepathy, telekinesis, weather and mental manipulation, hypnosis, and more. Are very strong and fast as well as have enhanced senses.
Habitat: Anywhere where humans live. Also tend to inhabit dark and dingy castles.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Getting bitten by one will turn you into one whether you like it or not. And they usually tend to go on killing sprees or invade people’s houses (though they will settle for the blood of the family pet). Yet, they can be warded off with garlic, holy water, or holy paraphernalia like a crucifix or rosary. Not to mention, they also tend to avoid churches and any place where there’s a lot of fire or garlic. Still, don’t have sex with one no matter how tempted you are. And I mean you, lovers of Anne Rice, Twilight, and True Blood.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell. They’re practically humans and are very dangerous.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, there are a number of ways. You can expose them to sunlight, decapitate them, drive a stake through their hearts, touch them with a crucifix, remove their hearts, set fire on them, bless them with holy water, have them chase you into a church, and enlist the help of your friendly neighborhood werewolf.

 

51. Leprechaun

Sure this leprechaun may seem scary looking but he's a mostly harmless creature associated with Saint Patrick's Day. Of course, he doesn't take too kindly on negative Irish stereotypes though.

Sure this leprechaun may seem scary looking but he’s a mostly harmless creature associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. Of course, he doesn’t take too kindly on negative Irish stereotypes though.

Type: Imp, Humanoid, Spirit
From: Irish Folklore
Features: Usually human looking but only about 5 inches at height though usually portrayed as high as a small child. Mostly depicted with red hair and wearing green (or red) as well as smoking a pipe. Appearances vary.
Behavior: Very clever and fast. Said to spend its time making shoes, storing coins in a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, and partaking in mischief.
Habitat: Ireland. Often live in moors, caves, forests, or gardens.
Is It Dangerous?: Not really.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, it can lead you to its pot of gold or grant you three wishes but it’s very hard to catch. Yet, you have to let it go afterwards. Of course, in the Harry Potter universe, you might want to go with the three wishes because Leprechaun gold disappears quickly and is considered pointless to pursue.
How to Get Rid of It: You don’t want to get rid of this creature.

 

52. Leviathan

The Leviathan is a large sea monster from Mesopotamian Mythology that can cause storms and chaos as well as eats humans. You might want to avoid this creature at all costs.

The Leviathan is a large sea monster from Mesopotamian Mythology that can cause storms and chaos as well as eats humans. You might want to avoid this creature at all costs. Unless you have supernatural aid, you’re basically screwed with this one.

Type: Sea Monster, Serpent
From: Mesopotamian Mythology (mentioned in the Bible)
Features: Is very large and usually depicted as serpent like. Can appear in many forms like a large fish or whale. Has a large powerful jaws.
Behavior: Solitary but a natural born swimmer and very strong. Shape shifting and see angels and demons where humans cannot.
Habitat: Can survive on land or water.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. They are venomous and eat humans. Also, capable of causing storms and other chaos.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Can only be killed through supernatural means. Can survive most wounds, reattach themselves, and are immune to disease. So if you’re pursued by one, go down on your knees and pray like mad even if you’re an atheist. That or call for a wizard.

 

53. Loch Ness Monster (a. k. a. Nessie)

One of the most prolific creatures in cryptozoology is the Loch Ness monster who was reputed to be first photographed in 1933 (though it's now known to be a hoax). Still, whether it be a possible living dinosaur or outright hoax, I'm sure the people of Loch Ness aren't complaining how the monster has helped their tourist industry.

One of the most prolific creatures in cryptozoology is the Loch Ness monster who was reputed to be first photographed in 1933 (though it’s now known to be a hoax). Still, whether it be a possible living dinosaur or outright hoax, I’m sure the people of Loch Ness aren’t complaining how the monster has helped their tourist industry.

Type: Water Monster, Cryptid, Living Dinosaur
From: Scottish Folklore
Features: Long neck, large body, flippers, and tail.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: The waters of Loch Ness in Scotland.
Is It Dangerous?: We’re not sure but Saint Columba reported of one killing a man and dragging him to watery depths according to a 7th century story.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, Saint Columba just made the sign of the cross and told the monster to stay away. Still, nowadays you don’t want to get rid of it since seeing one makes it a great photo op.

 

54. La Llorona

La Llorona is a spirit of a woman who drowned her children so she could be with the man she loved who wouldn't have her. Thus, she drowned herself and has never been permitted to enter the afterlife until she has found them. Still, to drown your kids for a man is seriously messed up.

La Llorona is a spirit of a woman who drowned her children so she could be with the man she loved who wouldn’t have her. Thus, she drowned herself and has never been permitted to enter the afterlife until she has found them. Still, to drown your kids for a man is seriously messed up.

Type: Undead, Spirit, Humanoid
From: Latin American Legend
Features: A spirit of a young woman in white seen weeping. Can be depicted crying “Ay mis hijos!” (“Oh, my children!”).
Behavior: Was once a woman named Maria who drowned her children after discovering her husband was unfaithful or to be with the man she loved. Yet, she committed suicide when he wouldn’t have her. Unable to enter the afterlife until she has found her kids. Solitary and nocturnal. Yet, you can summon her if you say her name twice in front of a mirror in a locked room.
Habitat: Mexico and much of the American Southwest.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it’s believed that those who hear her are marked for death and in some versions of the legend, she may kidnap kids that bear a resemblance to her missing children.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t she’s doomed to walk the Earth for eternity.

 

55. Roc

On the subject of mythical birds, the Roc is a giant bird from Middle Eastern legend that could carry elephants by its claws. Still, whatever you do, don't take any of its giant eggs. Seriously, don't.

On the subject of mythical birds, the Roc is a giant bird from Middle Eastern legend that could carry elephants by its claws. Still, whatever you do, don’t take any of its giant eggs. Seriously, don’t.

Type: Divine Bird
From: Middle Eastern Mythology
Features: Gigantic bird of prey with a forked tongue. Could either have the same color as an eagle or simply white. Its enormous beak is lined with sharp pointed teeth.
Behavior: Solitary. Presence can darken the night sky and the flap of its huge wings could cause hurricane like winds. Said to be a fierce guardian of a secret valley filled with jewels. Lays huge eggs.
Habitat: Madagascar.
Is It Dangerous?: Well, it’s know n to swoop down to grab animals and people in order to carry them off to feast upon or rip apart for its young. Can carry anything as big as an elephant in its talons. So yes. Also, don’t steal one of its eggs or it will destroy entire ships over in revenge as Sinbad learned the hard way.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Large harpoon or missile might do the trick.

 

56. Stymphalian Bird (a. k. a. Stymphalides)

Stymphalian birds may seem awesome but these pets of Ares were nothing but hostile pests in Arcadia that Hercules had to perform his Sixth Labor with the assistance of Hephaestus and Athena. Still, this painting may give the idea that Hercules' Sixth Labor was the Ancient Greek version of Angry Birds.

Stymphalian birds may seem awesome but these pets of Ares were nothing but hostile pests in Arcadia that Hercules had to perform his Sixth Labor with the assistance of Hephaestus and Athena. Still, this painting may give the idea that Hercules’ Sixth Labor was the Ancient Greek version of Angry Birds.

Type: Divine Bird
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Large bird with sharp and arrow like bronze feathers, metal beak and claws. Sometimes depicted with helmets.
Behavior: Ferocious and superiorly strong. Travel in groups.
Habitat: Arcadia in Ancient Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, their dung is poisonous and would shed their killer feathers like spears among attacking soldiers that easily pierced armor. Their killer plumage is said to terrorize the people of Arcadia. Known to devour all the dead and killing those injured with their beaks.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Only by Ares for they were his pets.
How to Get Rid of It: With the help of Athena, Hercules managed to disperse these monster birds with a loud thunderous rattle Hephaestus made for the occasion. He then proceeded to shoot each one of them with his arrows.

 

57. Kongamato

Now the Kongamato may be a creature you may not have heard of but it's sort of a large Pterodactyl on steroids that is said to reside in Central Africa. Still, if you see it, don't ever dare to look it in the eye since it will be sent into a flying rage and kill you.

Now the Kongamato may be a creature you may not have heard of but it’s sort of a large Pterodactyl on steroids that is said to reside in Central Africa. Still, if you see it, don’t ever dare to look it in the eye since it will be sent into a flying rage and kill you.

Type: Cryptid, Living Dinosaur
From: African Folklore
Features: Large bird with a tooth filled bill, leathery reptilian skin, and bat like wings. Has large, sharp, and powerful claws. Can resemble a pterosaur and is said to be red or black. Wingspan is said to be 3-3 ½ ft and is estimated to be 4 ½ ft from feet to tail.
Behavior: Hates being looked at in the eye. Said to have a very short temper.
Habitat: The jungles and swamps of Central Africa covering Angola, Zamibia, and the DRC.
Is It Dangerous?: Can clutch and carry off substantially large prey with ease. Known to suddenly attack from the sky only to dive into lakes and rivers to capsize boats and drown any passengers. Any living creature who dares looks into its eyes, angers it and faces certain death. Sightings or mention sends entire villages running in fear, abandoning possessions and homes.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: If you saw one, you wouldn’t want to get rid of it. Just don’t look at it in the eye.

 

58. Goblin

Goblins come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and personality. I see that this one is some badass warrior with a big ass knife as well as a bow and arrow. You may not want to mess with him.

Goblins come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and personality. I see that this one is some badass warrior with a big ass knife as well as a bow and arrow. You may not want to mess with him.

Type: Imp
From: Worldwide Legend
Features: At most they are 3 – 3 ½ ft tall and weigh up to 40 – 45 pounds. Utterly grotesque looking. Often depicted as brown, gray, green. Could have long fingers and elf like ears. Can be flat faced with small sharp fangs and a broad nose. Sometimes portrayed with hair or horns. Give off an awful stench. Appearances vary and there are a lot of different types.
Behavior: Travel in large numbers. Can range from annoying, mischievous, to downright evil. Said to be greedy and love gold. Can resort to dirty tricks and ambushes. Sometimes may possess magical abilities. Can be stupid or cowardly though in Harry Potter, they’re seen as dependable bankers.
Habitat: Caves, dungeons, ghost towns, and woodlands.
Is It Dangerous?: Depends on the story. The Gringotts goblins in Harry Potter aren’t very hostile but you don’t want to mess with them. The ones in Middle Earth, well, let’s say you want to go anywhere near them. Yet, some legends have them ride giant wolves into battle.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Once again, depends on the story.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure about this one.

 

59. Banshee

Now if you think this fearsome banshee isn't much to look at, you don't want to hear anything that comes out of her mouth which is an omen of death. Yeah, kind of kills the mood rather literally.

Now if you think this fearsome banshee isn’t much to look at, you don’t want to hear anything that comes out of her mouth which is an omen of death. Yeah, kind of kills the mood rather literally.

Type: Undead, Spirit, Humanoid
From: Irish Folklore
Features: Can appear as a young woman, a distinguished matron, or a tousled old hag. Known for shrieking incredibly loud but can sometimes be heard eerie singing or softly wailing. Hair is often long and light in color. Often seen wearing a gray or white hooded cloak. Often depicted in decomposition. Still, appearances vary.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Said to be capable of transforming into animals associated with witchcraft like a crow, hare, and weasel. Often depicted as airborne.
Habitat: Ireland.
Is It Dangerous?: Hearing her cry at night means that someone is about to die. Originally it only pertained to five Irish families but intermarriage has expanded that. In some legends, her cries meant that someone holy was about to bite the dust. In any event, hearing her cries isn’t a good sign.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure if you can.

 

60. Adlet (a.k.a. Erqugdlit or Erqugdlit)

You may think the Adlet is some Native American werewolf and in a way you might be right. Yet, these creatures were as wolf people and are in this state all the time. Werewolves are a different story.

You may think the Adlet is some Native American werewolf and in a way you might be right. Yet, these creatures were as wolf people and are in this state all the time. Werewolves are a different story.

Type: Hybrid, Humanoid
From: Inuit Mythology
Features: Has upper body of human and lower body of dog. Covered in fiery red fur and often have a long snout, pointed ears, long tails, and fiercely yellow eyes. Depictions may vary.
Behavior: Travel in packs and are very ferocious.
Habitat: Labrador and Hudson Bay Coasts of Canada.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, they are known to be bloodthirsty and some were said to be sent across the sea to ravage the white races by their mother. They are merciless killers known to attack and feed on anything that crosses in their path. Favorite treat is blood from a newly slain human.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell no.
How to Get Rid of It: Are susceptible and can be destroyed with silver and fire.

 

Mythological Creatures Reexamined: Part 3 – Golem to Troll

Of course, there seems to be a lot of Greek monsters and dragons from the west so far but I’ll soon get to other cultures and folklore as well as urban legends when I get the chance. Still, this selection has a lot of diversity as far as mythological creatures go. From Greek Mythology we have Talos and the Phoenix. From Scandanvian legend, Norse Mythology, and Northern European Folklore we have the Kraken, the Ogre, and the Troll. We also touch upon American Urban Legendary creatures like Mothman and the Jersey Devil as well as the Seed Eater from Canada and the Gremlin from World War II. Then there’s the Golem from Jewish Folklore, the Leucrocuta from Indian Mythology, the Kelpie from Celtic Mythology, the Thunderbird from Native American Legend, and the Kappa from Japanese Mythology. Finally we have one of the more universal creatures known as the Ghost. Talk about a United Nations of legendary creatures here. Now without further adieu, here is a list of even more mythological monsters.

 

31. Golem

Now the moral of the Golem story is that making a magical figurine out of rock, clay, or wood to have it serve your needs probably isn't a good idea. Nor is slavery in that matter.

Now the moral of the Golem story is that making a magical figurine out of rock, clay, or wood to have it serve your needs probably isn’t a good idea. Nor is slavery in that matter.

Type: Anthropomorphic Being, Humanoid
From: Jewish Folklore (mentioned in the Bible)
Features: Has a human like body made of clay, rock, or wood. Often have the word “emeth” written on their foreheads or a stone tablet placed on the monster’s mouth.
Behavior: Live in people’s households and generally peaceful until they grow up and learn about life by observing the people around them. Can’t speak very much.
Habitat: Czech Republic
Is It Dangerous?: Not at first, but as they grow strong and learn about life, their bursts of anger become increasingly violent.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, they can serve as slaves but will eventually grow too big and strong for their master to handle. Let’s just say domesticating one isn’t a good idea.
How to Get Rid of It: Say “meth” which is the Hebrew word for death.

 

32. Gremlin

Basically these are the little creatures who get into your machinery when they aren't working right. So if your car wouldn't start or can't get cell phone reception, it's probably the gremlins.

Basically these are the little creatures who get into your machinery when they aren’t working right. So if your car wouldn’t start or can’t get cell phone reception, it’s probably the gremlins.

Type: Imp
From: Superstitions from RAF pilots during WWII.
Features: Small creatures with oversized pointy ears. Resemble miniature gargoyles. Sometimes depicted with fur or wings.
Behavior: Usually travel in groups causing mayhem and mischief to people as they please. Love to hide from people so they could watch their frustrations over their pranks. They also like fooling around with electrical devices like cars and planes.
Habitat: Anywhere. Yet, machinery and electronics are ideal places.
Is It Dangerous?: Most of their pranks are harmless but some of these miniature monster pranks could have tragic outcomes like plane wrecks and car accidents.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure if you can but it will be difficult.

 

33. Leucrocuta (a. k. a. Corcotta or Leucrotta)

Sure this monster may seem harmless but it's basically a man eater Indian monster known to lure people in a trap just by calling their names.

Sure this monster may seem harmless but it’s basically a man eater Indian monster known to lure people in a trap just by calling their names.

Type: Hybrid
From: Indian and Ethiopian Mythology
Features: Has a horse’s head and hind quarters as well as front legs and body of a lion. About the size of a donkey with large bony gums stretching from ear to ear. Sometimes depicted with a badger’s head. Sometimes described as part lion, hyena, horse, and badger. Usually portrayed with cloven hooves and making hyena sounds.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: India
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, said to call victims by name to lure them out and tear them to pieces. Sometimes imitate the sounds of a wounded person so it could attract curious dogs and feast on them. Very fast.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Don’t even think about it.
How to Get Rid of It: I’m not sure how or if you can.

 

34. Jersey Devil

Of course, the legend of the Jersey Devil predates New Jersey's reputation for superfund sites, gangsters, corruption, and Snooki. Still, if this monster was on MTV's Jersey Shore, I bet the show wouldn't be canceled.

Of course, the legend of the Jersey Devil predates New Jersey’s reputation for superfund sites, gangsters, corruption, and Snooki. Still, if this monster was on MTV’s Jersey Shore, I bet the show wouldn’t be canceled.

Type: Cryptid, Spirit
From: United States
Features: Has deformed body and head of a horse, horns, and large bat like wings. Sometimes depicted with antlers, claws, and/or tusks.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal.
Habitat: Pine Barrens in southern New Jersey. Lives near swamps and forests.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, known to terrorize the neighboring villages. Sometimes would burst out of chimneys to attack people and animals as well as steal a pot of simmering stew. Prone to kill people and livestock as well as feast on small children.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, I’m sure New Jersey’s superfund sites might take care of that creature.

 

35. Kraken

Of course, who's ever on that submarine isn't going to last once the Kraken is done playing with it. Still, Perseus didn't fight with this monster in the original myths, because it's a Scandinavian monster, not Greek. Having Thor fight it would make more sense.

Of course, who’s ever on that submarine isn’t going to last once the Kraken is done playing with it. Still, Perseus didn’t fight with this monster in the original myths, because it’s a Scandinavian monster, not Greek. Having Thor fight it would make more sense.

Type: Sea Monster, Cryptid
From: Norwegian and Scandinavian Legend (Not Greek Mythology despite it being the monster in Clash of the Titans. It was only there because Ray Harryhausen didn’t want to do another dragon and that “release the Cetus” didn’t have a nice ring to it.)
Features: Gigantic squid or octopus. Said to be the size of a small island that some sightings could be logged as pieces of land. Can be 100-150ft in length or more. Has an infinite lifespan. Sometimes depicted as a sea serpent or humanoid squid. Sometimes depicted with gnashing teeth.
Behavior: Solitary.
Habitat: Coasts of Norway, Greenland, and Iceland. Can survive both in land and water.
Is It Dangerous?: Oh, yes. Has superhuman strength that could easily wrap its tentacles around ships and drag them into deep waters with ease. Can create powerful whirlpools when they quickly submerge which can suck down anything caught with it, including large ships. Can rip apart huge fleets and destroy cities and humans with its might.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: You might want to use a harpoon or several. Perhaps a giant fishing net.

 

36. Kappa

The Kappa is a complex monster which can range from harmless prankster and sexual harassser to outright vicious. Of course, this one is an outright pervert watching women skinny dipping. Also kind of resembles a cross between a house elf and a turtle.

The Kappa is a complex monster which can range from harmless prankster and sexual harassser to outright vicious. Of course, this one is an outright pervert watching women skinny dipping. Also kind of resembles a cross between a house elf and a turtle.

Type: Cryptid, Imp, Yokai, Water Monster
From: Japanese Mythology
Features: Roughly humanoid in form and about the size of a child. Have scaly reptilian skin that could be green, yellow, or blue as well as webbed hands and feet. Can smell like fish. Appearance varies from region to region. Most consistent features are a beak for a mouth, a carapace, a flat hairless plate on the forehead called a sara which is always filled with water and a source of power. May have arms connected to each other that they could slide from one end to the other.
Behavior: Are expert swimmers, very intelligent, and knowledgeable in medicine. Are very mischievous and enjoy playing pranks on people. Obsess over politeness. Curious about human civilization and can speak Japanese. They can also be help farmers irrigate their land. Omnivores.
Habitat: Japan. Inhabit ponds and rivers. May venture on land occasionally and spend fall and winter in the mountains.
Is It Dangerous?: Their pranks can range from relatively harmless like looking up women’s kimonos and passing gas to the malevolent like drowning people and animals, kidnapping children, and raping women. They do love human flesh but their favorite food is cucumbers. Carve your name and birth date on a cucumber and throw it in the pond, they’ll leave you alone.
Can It Be Domesticated?: If you befriend one, it will be a friend for life or go against its word.
How to Get Rid of It: Trick it to hollow its head by making one bow. It will spill water and be powerless. Let its sara dry and it will die.

 

37. Mothman

Now I posted a picture of a Mothman sculpture in a previous post which I think is kind of creepy. Yet, it has appeared on TV shows now and then such as Spongebob Squarepants and The X Files which have absolutely nothing in common with each other. Also, has his own Syfy movie. Still, I wish he could be in a fight with Godzilla.

Now I posted a picture of a Mothman sculpture in a previous post which I think is kind of creepy. Yet, it has appeared on TV shows now and then such as Spongebob Squarepants and The X Files which have absolutely nothing in common with each other. Also, has his own Syfy movie. Still, I wish he could be in a fight with Godzilla.

Type: Cryptid, Humanoid, Hybrid
From: United States but might have roots in older folk tales
Features: Has torso, arms, and legs of a man as well as insect like head, 10ft wings, and hands and feet. Has large bright red eyes and is very tall.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Capable of teleportation and possesses superhuman strength.
Habitat: Point Pleasant area of West Virginia.
Is It Dangerous?: We’re not really sure about that since most of his stories are related to sightings. May predict or cause natural disasters. Yet, looking into his eyes may cause blindness and irritation.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Absolutely not.
How to Get Rid of It: Again, we’re not sure about that either.

 

38. Seed Eater (a. k. a. Birdman or Rag Face)

If this guy was a muppet character on Sesame Street, I bet he'd be the neighborhood serial killer. Seriously, he totally looks the part to be in a muppet edition of Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

If this guy was a muppet character on Sesame Street, I bet he’d be the neighborhood serial killer. Seriously, he totally looks the part to be in a muppet edition of Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

Type: Humanoid (Yet, despite the name, this monster isn’t known for eating seeds but children.)
From: Canada (created by a blogger named Cliff Howry.)
Features: Tall and has a vague human appearance, dark green or brown skin, and long dark hair. Wears a stitched rag mask with two eye holes to see and another for a mouth, beak, or snout. Emits a foul odor.
Behavior: Solitary and nocturnal. Can climb trees and make sudden noises or movements before disappearing.
Habitat: North America. Resides in woodlands.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, has been known to hunt children for its prey every few years, which is why it tends to hunt playgrounds. Yet, it will attack anyone who interferes. Most adult abductions will result in the person being turned into another Seed Eater.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, one boy managed to beat this monster with a baseball bat to repel. Yet, he was unable to speak again due what the monster did to his throat and now lives in a basement guarded 24/7.

 

39. Kelpie (a. k. a. Water Horse)

Sure this may be a lovely creature you'd want to ride on. Yet, bear in mind that you don't want to go on a water pony ride on this thing which tends to fake tameness to lure its prey: humans.

Sure this may be a lovely creature you’d want to ride on. Yet, bear in mind that you don’t want to go on a water pony ride on this thing which tends to fake tameness to lure its prey: humans.

Type: Water Monster
From: Celtic Mythology
Features: Often depicted with a horse’s head with finned front limbs and a fish tail. Mostly depicted as black but can be gray, green, or white. Mane is always wet and covered with seaweed. Howls and wails before upcoming storms. Loch Ness Monster is sometimes identified as one. Appearances vary on depiction.
Behavior: Solitary. Has shapeshifting abilities in its magic bridle and can adopt to human form. Said to have the strength of 10 horses.
Habitat: Near freshwater lakes, streams, and rivers.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, eats humans. Despite being seemingly tame at first, it’s been known to lure people tempted to mount it for an apparently innocent ride. However, once a person saddles up, the creature would dive into the deepest waters and drown its victims. Can transform into a smoking hot man or woman to lure a victim of the opposite sex into a trap, usually to a watery grave where it could eat them.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Yes it can be harnessed to transport heavy millstones. However, it can’t be domesticated for long because it hates being enslaved at farms.
How to Get Rid of It: Can be captured using a halter stamped with a cross sign. Can be killed by being shot with a silver bullet.

 

40. Ogre

Now ogres may not always be completely stupid in legends but they are nothing like what you see in the Shrek movies. Of course, the Shrek in the original William Steig stories was pretty ugly than in the Dreamworks films.

Now ogres may not always be completely stupid in legends but they are nothing like what you see in the Shrek movies. Of course, the Shrek in the original William Steig stories was pretty ugly than in the Dreamworks films. Yet, Shrek is a parody.

Type: Humanoid
From: Northern European Folklore
Features: Large, muscular, and ugly with deformed facial features. Tend to smell bad. Often depicted as green. Sometimes portrayed with horns or fangs.
Behavior: Solitary. Often seen as stupid but many are highly intelligent and could even perform magic. Yet, mostly use primitive weapons in battle.
Habitat: Near villages in swamps and mountains.
Is It Dangerous?: Absolutely. They have tremendous strength and could easily rip apart their enemies with their bare hands. Can be brutal and exhibit cruel and vicious violence, especially when hungry. Doesn’t help you that human flesh is their favorite meal, especially the tender flesh of small children.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell. Well, Shrek, maybe but not as a pet. Then again, Shrek isn’t a bad ogre.
How to Get Rid of It: Depends on the story.

 

41. Talos

Now this is Talos as designed by Ray Harryhausen for Jason and the Argonauts. However, remember he's not the guy who's modeled for the Colossus of Rhodes. That would be Helios. Still, he does a Colossus of Rhodes pose in the movie.

Now this is Talos as designed by Ray Harryhausen for Jason and the Argonauts. However, remember he’s not the guy who’s modeled for the Colossus of Rhodes. That would be Helios. Still, he does a Colossus of Rhodes pose in the movie.

Type: Humanoid, Anthropomorphic Being
From: Greek Mythology
Features: Gigantic human-like body made of bronze. Ran on ichor, the blood of the gods with a bronze nail keeping the fluid from leaking out.
Behavior: Created by Hephaestus and is strong enough to move boulders at any ships. Charged with guarding Zeus’ lover Europa on Crete.
Habitat: Crete in Ancient Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes. He can hurl huge boulders at ships and burned any captured pirates on his armor. Actually you can say he was made to be a killing machine.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Not as a pet but he was used by Zeus to guard his lover Europa on Crete.
How to Get Rid of It: Charmed and given a sleeping potion by Medea who removed the bronze nail from his heel and drained his lifeblood that finally killed him.

 

42. Phoenix (a. k. a. Firebird)

Despite the fact it's a firebird, the phoenixes are usually harmless creatures to anyone who's good. Of course, this doesn't mean it can't attack for Fawkes did blind a basilisk in Harry Potter.

Despite the fact it’s a firebird, the phoenixes are usually harmless creatures to anyone who’s good. Of course, this doesn’t mean it can’t attack for Fawkes did blind a basilisk in Harry Potter.

Type: Divine Bird
From: Greek Mythology (first described by Herodotus in 484-425 BCE.)
Features: Traditionally splendidly multi-colored firebird resembling an eagle. Usually depicted with orange, red, and yellow feathers but coloration varies by legend. Also portrayed as gigantic Its life cycles could last from 500 to 1000 years. Tears are pure and capable of extreme healing powers. Cry is the most soothing and captivating song one could ever grace to hear. Older images have them with nimbuses and seven rays.
Behavior: Solitary. Eats only spices and drinks dew.
Habitat: Greece.
Is It Dangerous?: Despite being a fire bird, they’re incapable of killing or crushing a single living creature. Yet, they can burn or peck you though.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Well, it’s been known to serve as a sidekick to heroes and warriors so yes. Also, Dumbledore owned one in Harry Potter.
How to Get Rid of It: Well, you can kill it, but all it’s going to do is combust and rise from its ashes all over again. I mean it’s immortal so destroying one is basically pointless.

 

43. Thunderbird

Now this is probably one of the few legendary creatures you've heard of from Native American Legend. Of course, this may be because this bird has a car from Ford as well as an e-mail service named after it.

Now this is probably one of the few legendary creatures you’ve heard of from Native American Legend. Of course, this may be because this bird has a car from Ford as well as an e-mail service named after it.

Type: Divine Bird, Cryptid
From: Native American Folklore
Features: An extremely large bird resembling an eagle capable of shooting lightning. Traditionally depicted as multicolored with two curling horns and teeth within its beak. Can be blue, purple, white, or yellow in depiction. Carries around golden snakes with it.
Behavior: Solitary. Wingbeats can pull clouds together. Its wing claps can generate thunder. Generates sheet lightning by flashing its eyes when it blinks. And throws lightning bolts made by glowing snakes it carries around with. Has variations that have other powers like shapeshifting, generating rainfall, and others.
Habitat: The Americas.
Is It Dangerous?: It’s best to be avoided at all costs, refrain from disturbing or upsetting it in anyway. Else, you might become a human lightning rod.
Can It Be Domesticated?: No way in hell.
How to Get Rid of It: You can’t since they’re probably immortal.

 

44. Ghost

Now ghosts can come in all shapes and sizes but I'm sure seeing one will certainly freak anyone help. I mean imagine if you're grandmother's spirit came back from the dead. You wouldn't want that.

Now ghosts can come in all shapes and sizes but I’m sure seeing one will certainly freak anyone help. I mean imagine if you’re grandmother’s spirit came back from the dead. You wouldn’t want that.

Type: Spirit, Undead
From: Worldwide
Features: Basically disembodied souls of humans or other creatures. Can be depicted white or transparent. Can be portrayed as a white mass or as normal people or animals. Have no density. Can moan, wail, whisper, scream, or cry.
Behavior: Depends on the ghost. Have superhuman speed and can pass through things. Also possess telekinesis and glow in the dark.
Habitat: Graveyards, haunted houses, old stomping grounds, and other places.
Is It Dangerous?: Depends on the particular ghost. Though they could possess other people’s bodies and minds. Yet, if you’re killed by a ghost, you usually end up becoming one since such demise is unnatural.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Nope. They’re dead.
How to Get Rid of It: Best to confront it with iron, salt, or Holy Relics. Also, burning the item that keeps them on earth also helps transport them to the afterlife.

 

45. Troll

Trolls are among the more familiar creatures in Norse Mythology which are known to be man-eaters that tend to turn into stone at sunrise. Today, they're just obnoxious internet commentars who rant on things they know nothing about.

Trolls are among the more familiar creatures in Norse Mythology which are known to be man-eaters that tend to turn into stone at sunrise. Today, they’re just obnoxious internet commentars who rant on things they know nothing about.

Type: Humanoid
From: Norse Mythology
Features: Very large, ugly, and beast like monsters that smell very bad. May have horns, long arms, warts, hairy skin, and humped backs. Also said to have disfigured faces, deformed teeth, and huge ears. Usually depicted as green or gray. There are a lot of different types.
Behavior: Either solitary or live together in family groups. Not very bright but very strong. Also nocturnal. Could behave more like human beings in some legends.
Habitat: Caves, under bridges, burrows, underground, and isolated mountains.
Is It Dangerous?: Yes, they are man eaters and are rarely helpful to human beings.
Can It Be Domesticated?: Hell, no.
How to Get Rid of It: Exposing them to sunlight may turn them into stone.