Werewolf

Werwolf

Lekythos Dolon Louvre CA1802

Lycaon Transformed into a Wolf LACMA M.71.76.9

Bronsplåt pressbleck Öland vendeltid

Werewolf in Geneva (1580)

GermanWoodcut1722

Werewolf is a mythological or folkloric creature that is often described as a human with the ability to shapeshift into a wolf or a therianthropic hybrid wolf-like creature, either purposely or after being placed under a curse or affliction (often a bite or scratch from another werewolf). The werewolf is a widespread concept in European folklore, existing in many variants, which are related by a common development of a Christian interpretation of underlying European folklore developed during the medieval period. From the early modern period, werewolf beliefs also spread to the New World with colonialism.

Etymology and Definitions

The word werewolf comes from the Old English werwulf, a compound of wer "man" and wulf "wolf". The only High German testimony is in the form of a given name, Weriuuolf, although an early Middle High German werwolf is found in Burchard of Worms and Berthold of Regensburg. The concept of werewolves has been present in many cultures worldwide, the most notable reference being in European folklore.

Characteristics

Werewolves are often attributed with physical prowess far beyond those of wolves or men. The werewolf is commonly held to be a European character, although its lore can be found in the traditions of many cultures worldwide. A common characteristic is that the transformation typically occurs during the full moon. In many folklore traditions, werewolves are immune to damage caused by ordinary weapons and can only be killed by silver objects, such as a silver-tipped bullet.

Historical Beliefs and Legends

Historical beliefs about werewolves have been found in various cultures. In Norse mythology, the Saga of the Volsungs tells of a father and son who discovered wolf pelts that had the power to turn people into wolves for ten days. The legend of Lycaon, which originates from Greek mythology, tells of a man transformed into a wolf after eating human flesh, one of the earliest examples of werewolf legends. During the Middle Ages, belief in werewolves became widespread in Europe. Werewolf trials, similar to witch trials, became common, with those accused often being executed.

Modern Depictions

In modern times, the werewolf has become a staple of horror fiction, inspiring numerous books, films, and television series. The characteristics of werewolves in these depictions vary widely, from vicious monsters to sympathetic characters struggling with their condition. The transformation is often depicted as painful and unwilling, and being a werewolf is frequently portrayed as a curse rather than a blessing or a choice.

In Popular Culture

Werewolves have a strong presence in popular culture and have appeared in countless works of fiction, including movies like The Wolf Man and series such as Teen Wolf. They are often depicted as part of a hidden world or society, living alongside humans but not fully part of their world. This has led to the creation of a rich lore surrounding werewolves, including their own societies, rules, and interactions with other supernatural creatures.

See Also

• Lycanthropy
• Shapeshifting
• Vampire
• Mythology