Author |
Baring-Gould, S. (Sabine), 1834-1924 |
Title |
The Book of Were-Wolves
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Note |
Reading ease score: 64.1 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
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Contents |
Introductory -- Lycanthropy among the ancients -- The were-wolf in the North -- The origin of the Scandinavian were-wolf -- The were-wolf in the Middle Ages -- A chapter of horrors -- Jean Grenier -- Folk-lore relating to were-wolves -- Natural causes of lycanthropy -- Mythological origin of the were-wolf myth -- The Maréchal de Retz: I. The investigation of charges -- The Maréchal de Retz: II. The trial -- The Maréchal de Retz: III. The sentence and execution -- A Galician were-wolf -- Anomalous case: The human hyena -- A sermon on were-wolves.
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Credits |
Curtis Weyant
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Summary |
"The Book of Were-Wolves" by Sabine Baring-Gould is a historical account written during the late 19th century. The book explores the folklore and myths surrounding were-wolves, beginning with an examination of ancient narratives and transitioning into medieval legends and modern interpretations. It delves into the concept of lycanthropy, detailing various cultural beliefs and historical anecdotes, ultimately suggesting that these stories may have roots in actual psychological phenomena. At the start of the book, the author recounts a personal experience in the region of Vienne, France, which introduces him to local superstitions about were-wolves, particularly a chilling anecdote shared by villagers. Baring-Gould reflects on the deep-rooted fears that pervade the community, as locals discuss encounters with a loup-garou, or man-wolf. Their tales vividly describe the creature's size and ferocity, illustrating how myths shape societal fears and behaviors. This opening effectively sets the tone for the exploration of were-wolves, hinting at a mixture of personal narrative and scholarly investigation that will underpin the subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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Language |
English |
LoC Class |
GR: Geography, Anthropology, Recreation: Folklore
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Subject |
Werewolves
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Category |
Text |
EBook-No. |
5324 |
Release Date |
Mar 1, 2004 |
Most Recently Updated |
Jun 9, 2021 |
Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
Downloads |
404 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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