A topic within the paranormal that I have seen grow immensely over the past couple of years is the one involving creatures like the succubus and the incubus. Stories of these beings have been found in Germany, Turkey, Brazil, Assam, Chile, Ecuador, South Africa, and probably more. I've seen these creatures described a couple of different ways, from demons, to witches, to vampires. Where do these myths come from, and what is it about these beings that holds such fascination?
One of the first occurrences of an incubus and a succubus comes from Mesopotamia and the Sumerian King List (2400 BC). Here, the incubus, Lilu, is said to disturb and seduce women, while the succubus, Lilitu, appears in erotic dreams. An older mention of a succubus is with Jewish mysticism and the creature Lilith. According to this story, Lilith was the first woman and didn't want to be submissive to Adam. She left the Garden of Eden and had sex with the archangel Samael, resulting in her transformation into a succubus. Another mythological representation of an incubus comes from the stories of King Arthur. It has been said that Merlin was the son of an incubus, and that's where he received his powers and abilities. And, of course, Christianity is rife with tales of demons and how one can avoid them.
Some more recent mentions of succubus-like creatures have popped up recently. The SyFy show Lost Girl portrays a female protagonist, said to be Fae, that gains energy by taking the life force of the people around her. She can do this during her sexual encounters, or sometimes by mere touch. American Horror Story: Coven also explored a succubus character. In this show, the succubus was only beginning to understand her powers as a witch. As for the incubus, I haven't seen this type of character come up in movies or television as much. However, I have read a number of books that concern an incubus or two (yes, the same would go for the succubus).
In the days before science, people would often look to the unexplained for answers to their questions. For instance, if a woman's husband passed away and she became pregnant outside of another marriage, it would be acceptable for her to claim an incubus visited her a night. Also, when a man would need to explain why he had a wet dream, a succubus could be an acceptable scapegoat. Today, these explanations seem laughable. However, there are still people that claim to be visited by such demonic entities. Doctors have dismissed these reports as hallucinations, waking dreams, and paralysis.
As for the fascination of these beings, I think it's now becoming more acceptable for people to discuss sex in public. With social norms shifting, many people are now given the freedom of wondering what it might be like to be visited by, or even be, one of these creatures.
What are your thoughts on the incubus or the succubus? Do you know of any other places where these creatures take center stage?
Showing posts with label vampires. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vampires. Show all posts
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Monday, January 27, 2014
My Four Question Interview
Here at Thumps, Bumps and Thrills, I focus on the mysterious and macabre, and steer clear of author interviews. However, I was asked by fellow writer/friend Julia Pierce to participate in a self interview for my blog. You can see Julia's answers here, http://juliaspierce.wordpress.com/2014/01/20/should-take-me-about-a-month/.
So here it goes....
What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on an urban fantasy which deals with witches, ghosts and...VAMPIRES.
How is your story unlike other stories in your genre?
With the oversaturation of a trope like vampires, it's extremely difficult to come up with something new and completely original. For that reason, I will not go into too much detail here on the specifics of my current Work in Progress (WIP). But I am willing to give a few general descriptions of some things I have going on.
Instead of fire-wielding, complete fantasy types of witchcraft and magic, my books (yes, plural) focus on a more true-to-life, Pagan based belief system. I've been finding that even though this approach is limiting in terms of what can be done in my books, it helps to keep things grounded as well. My future readers should be less likely to stray from reading because something seems too implausible.
I also incorporate a mixture of vampire lore, history and mythology that gives a twist on some traditional paranormal topics. Whereas some of these things have been touched on by other authors every so often in order to further characterization, my books would fall to pieces without them.
Why do you write what you write?
I smile every time I see this question. It is very daunting at times when I think of how hard it will be to break out with topics such as the ones I've chosen to write about. But I've found that a writer needs to write what is in their heart and in their mind.
I saw my first vampire movie when I was nine years old. It wasn't the nice, bloodless paranormal romance stuff that is so prevalent today. The Lost Boys was a hard-core vampire movie that had its characters ripping people's heads off! From that moment on, I was completely sucked in. Vampires never frightened me. Instead, I was always totally fascinated by them. I like to say that I grew up with vampires. I hate to make myself sound like a nutcase (this is my area of geek...everyone has one), but I think about vampires all the time. For nearly every story, song, or what-not I hear, I can think of a vampire story to reflect its moral. When that happens to a writer, how could they not write about vampires? It's in my blood!
What is your writing process?
It's hard to concentrate on writing during the day while chasing two very young, active children around. It simply can't be done in my case. So I figure I've got two options:
A) I could wake up earlier than everyone else to get my writing time in.
B) I can stay up after everyone else has gone to sleep and let my twisted little brain work its magic.
Yes, of course I go with option B! I've never been a morning person and never will be. So many people told me that I would become one while I was still pregnant with my first-born child. Boy, were they wrong! I'm a night owl, always have been. I love the quiet stillness (and creepiness) that is the night. It relaxes me and helps get the creativity flowing.
So that's a little bit of information on me and my writing. I'd be happy to answer any more questions if you have any for me, just ask!
So here it goes....
What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on an urban fantasy which deals with witches, ghosts and...VAMPIRES.
How is your story unlike other stories in your genre?
With the oversaturation of a trope like vampires, it's extremely difficult to come up with something new and completely original. For that reason, I will not go into too much detail here on the specifics of my current Work in Progress (WIP). But I am willing to give a few general descriptions of some things I have going on.
Instead of fire-wielding, complete fantasy types of witchcraft and magic, my books (yes, plural) focus on a more true-to-life, Pagan based belief system. I've been finding that even though this approach is limiting in terms of what can be done in my books, it helps to keep things grounded as well. My future readers should be less likely to stray from reading because something seems too implausible.
I also incorporate a mixture of vampire lore, history and mythology that gives a twist on some traditional paranormal topics. Whereas some of these things have been touched on by other authors every so often in order to further characterization, my books would fall to pieces without them.
Why do you write what you write?
I smile every time I see this question. It is very daunting at times when I think of how hard it will be to break out with topics such as the ones I've chosen to write about. But I've found that a writer needs to write what is in their heart and in their mind.
I saw my first vampire movie when I was nine years old. It wasn't the nice, bloodless paranormal romance stuff that is so prevalent today. The Lost Boys was a hard-core vampire movie that had its characters ripping people's heads off! From that moment on, I was completely sucked in. Vampires never frightened me. Instead, I was always totally fascinated by them. I like to say that I grew up with vampires. I hate to make myself sound like a nutcase (this is my area of geek...everyone has one), but I think about vampires all the time. For nearly every story, song, or what-not I hear, I can think of a vampire story to reflect its moral. When that happens to a writer, how could they not write about vampires? It's in my blood!
What is your writing process?
It's hard to concentrate on writing during the day while chasing two very young, active children around. It simply can't be done in my case. So I figure I've got two options:
A) I could wake up earlier than everyone else to get my writing time in.
B) I can stay up after everyone else has gone to sleep and let my twisted little brain work its magic.
Yes, of course I go with option B! I've never been a morning person and never will be. So many people told me that I would become one while I was still pregnant with my first-born child. Boy, were they wrong! I'm a night owl, always have been. I love the quiet stillness (and creepiness) that is the night. It relaxes me and helps get the creativity flowing.
So that's a little bit of information on me and my writing. I'd be happy to answer any more questions if you have any for me, just ask!
Friday, November 8, 2013
Bram Stoker
Abraham Stoker was born in Dublin, Ireland on November 8, 1847. Just about everyone knows that he was the author of the 1897 novel DRACULA. But most don't know that Stoker was best known as the business manager of the Lyceum Theatre in London during his lifetime.
Stoker was the victim of an unknown illness which left him bedridden until he was seven years old. After his recovery, he began school. Fortunately Stoker was able to grow up without further illnesses. He even became quite the athlete.
Stoker was a Protestant and worshiped in the Church of Ireland. He graduated from college with honors with a B.A. in mathematics. Stoker married Florence Balcombe, and together they had one son, Irving Noel.
Stoker died on April 20, 1912. The cause of his death is a bit of a controversy. Some historians think he died of tertiary syphilis, others believe he was overworked. Stoker's body was cremated and his ashes were displayed at the Golders Green Crematorium. The ashes of his son are in the same urn. Visitors that wish to see the urn are permitted in the room under supervision, as vandalism is feared.
The first film adaptation of DRACULA was released in 1922. It was called NOSFERATU. Stoker's wife claimed that she was never asked for permission to make the book into a movie. Eventually she won the case and the film was supposed to have been destroyed. However, the movie can still be found today. In my opinion, it is still very creepy! The first authorized adaptation of DRACULA was released in 1931 and stared Bela Lugosi.
Happy birthday, Bram Stoker!
Stoker was the victim of an unknown illness which left him bedridden until he was seven years old. After his recovery, he began school. Fortunately Stoker was able to grow up without further illnesses. He even became quite the athlete.
Stoker was a Protestant and worshiped in the Church of Ireland. He graduated from college with honors with a B.A. in mathematics. Stoker married Florence Balcombe, and together they had one son, Irving Noel.
Stoker died on April 20, 1912. The cause of his death is a bit of a controversy. Some historians think he died of tertiary syphilis, others believe he was overworked. Stoker's body was cremated and his ashes were displayed at the Golders Green Crematorium. The ashes of his son are in the same urn. Visitors that wish to see the urn are permitted in the room under supervision, as vandalism is feared.
The first film adaptation of DRACULA was released in 1922. It was called NOSFERATU. Stoker's wife claimed that she was never asked for permission to make the book into a movie. Eventually she won the case and the film was supposed to have been destroyed. However, the movie can still be found today. In my opinion, it is still very creepy! The first authorized adaptation of DRACULA was released in 1931 and stared Bela Lugosi.
Happy birthday, Bram Stoker!
Friday, October 18, 2013
The Vampire Infliction
If you know me or you've read my blog, you know that not only do I love vampires, I also study the myths and legends surrounding them. Every now and then, I turn to a book I have called THE VAMPIRE ENCYCLOPEDIA by Matthew Bunson. The book is filled with all sorts of interesting little tidbits and lore on my favorite type of monster.
In his book, Bunson presents a list of traits that have been said to lead a person to become a vampire. Keep in mind, the vampires of legend and lore are generally considered to be fearsome monsters, not the sexy seductive creatures that are so prevalent in today's horror genre. Also, most lore - being based off of the beliefs of people long gone - often seems to be outdated with regards to today's knowledge of science. Bunson says:
"Becoming a Vampire
Methods by which a person can become an undead, as documented from traditions and customs of folklore.
Predispositions
Birth:
Weaned too early
Suckled after weaning
Born the seventh son of a seventh son
Death without baptism
Received a curse
Mother did not eat enough salt during pregnancy
Mother stared at by a vampire while pregnant
Actions in Life Leading to Vampiric Transformation
Committing suicide
Practicing sorcery or witchcraft
Eating sheep killed by a wolf
Leading an immoral life, i.e., prostitutes, murderers, and treacherous barmaids
Saying a mass while in a state of mortal sin (for priests)
Being a werewolf
Death or After-Death Causes
Death at the hands of a vampire
Wind from the Russian Steppe blowing on the corpse
Having a cat or other animal jump or fly over the corpse
Having a shadow fall on the corpse
No burial or improper burial rites
Death by violence or murder
Murder that is unrevenged
Having a candle passed over the corpse
Having one's brother sleepwalk
Death by drowning
Stealing the ropes used to bury a corpse
Being buried face up in the grave (in parts of Romania)"
Today, this list seems a bit over-the-top. Pretty much anyone could be a vampire with all of these superstitions. But it is a list made up of the beliefs of people from various cultures throughout history. I find the information to be very interesting. How about you?
In his book, Bunson presents a list of traits that have been said to lead a person to become a vampire. Keep in mind, the vampires of legend and lore are generally considered to be fearsome monsters, not the sexy seductive creatures that are so prevalent in today's horror genre. Also, most lore - being based off of the beliefs of people long gone - often seems to be outdated with regards to today's knowledge of science. Bunson says:
"Becoming a Vampire
Methods by which a person can become an undead, as documented from traditions and customs of folklore.
Predispositions
Birth:
- Born at certain times of the year (new moon, holy days)
- Born with a red caul, with teeth, or with an extra nipple
- Born with excess hair, with a red birthmark, or with two hearts
Weaned too early
Suckled after weaning
Born the seventh son of a seventh son
Death without baptism
Received a curse
Mother did not eat enough salt during pregnancy
Mother stared at by a vampire while pregnant
Actions in Life Leading to Vampiric Transformation
Committing suicide
Practicing sorcery or witchcraft
Eating sheep killed by a wolf
Leading an immoral life, i.e., prostitutes, murderers, and treacherous barmaids
Saying a mass while in a state of mortal sin (for priests)
Being a werewolf
Death or After-Death Causes
Death at the hands of a vampire
Wind from the Russian Steppe blowing on the corpse
Having a cat or other animal jump or fly over the corpse
Having a shadow fall on the corpse
No burial or improper burial rites
Death by violence or murder
Murder that is unrevenged
Having a candle passed over the corpse
Having one's brother sleepwalk
Death by drowning
Stealing the ropes used to bury a corpse
Being buried face up in the grave (in parts of Romania)"
Today, this list seems a bit over-the-top. Pretty much anyone could be a vampire with all of these superstitions. But it is a list made up of the beliefs of people from various cultures throughout history. I find the information to be very interesting. How about you?
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Gypsy Mythology
Long curly hair tied back with a bandanna, flowing skirts, giant hoop earrings, bangle bracelets, palm reading and crystal balls. These are just some of the things that come to mind when the word Gypsy is uttered. But who are Gypsies?
Gypsies - also known as Romanies -are a group of nomadic people. Their culture originated in India during the Middle Ages. According to Romani mythology, India was experiencing a period of turmoil and upheaval. When society began to divide, groups of people were either accepted or not. Those outcasts tended to be thieves, musicians/actors, and magicians.
Gypsies tend to adopt the major religion of whichever country they reside. However, the main religions of the Romanies are Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. They are also known to participate in Shaktism - a practice that states that a female consort must be represented in order to worship a god. This practice dates back to the days of India.
Some of the more widely known folklore topics of the Romani people are:
Gypsies - also known as Romanies -are a group of nomadic people. Their culture originated in India during the Middle Ages. According to Romani mythology, India was experiencing a period of turmoil and upheaval. When society began to divide, groups of people were either accepted or not. Those outcasts tended to be thieves, musicians/actors, and magicians.
Gypsies tend to adopt the major religion of whichever country they reside. However, the main religions of the Romanies are Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. They are also known to participate in Shaktism - a practice that states that a female consort must be represented in order to worship a god. This practice dates back to the days of India.
Some of the more widely known folklore topics of the Romani people are:
- Astrology
- Curses
- Dhampir - a child of a vampire and a human
- Divination
- Dragons
- Fortune Tellers
- Palmistry
- Psychics
- Spirit Invocation
- Tarot
- Vampires
- Witches
Thursday, August 15, 2013
A High School of Monsters
I was recently invited to a child's birthday party where the theme was Monster High. I was tasked with making the cupcakes and it got me to thinking....
I love the thought of a high school full of monsters. When I was growing up, we had cartoons like Beatlejuice and Count Duckula, but I don't remember these shows having the same amount of popularity as the dolls of Monster High.
My three year old daughter has a the vampire doll, Draculaura. The doll is creepy and disturbing, and I love it! At Christmas time, I sat her on a table as a sort of Goth version of an Elf on the Shelf. It was weird, I know. But, I'm weird.
I've stated before that I saw my first vampire movie when I was nine years old. It was no child's movie with a romantic twist, it was hard-core and I loved it! I began to immerse myself in everything vampire related, including folklore, to thoroughly understand my monster of choice. To say the least, this set me far apart from the other female third-graders.
As I grew older, I waited for my fascination with vampires to cease, but it never did. Now I know, without a doubt, that just like vampires themselves, my love for them will never die. But when I think back at my monster-loving childhood, I am reminded of just how far I stood out from so many other kids. I learned to hide this, and thus kept myself from being ridiculed too much.
If Monster High dolls were around while I was growing up, I wouldn't have felt so different. I would have been just like all the other little girls toting vampire, zombie and werewolf dollies. But I've learned that being just like everyone else isn't always such a great thing. So the next time you come across a "weird" kid that others laugh at, stop and think. Maybe that kid isn't so weird after all. Maybe they're just the trend-setter.
I love the thought of a high school full of monsters. When I was growing up, we had cartoons like Beatlejuice and Count Duckula, but I don't remember these shows having the same amount of popularity as the dolls of Monster High.
My three year old daughter has a the vampire doll, Draculaura. The doll is creepy and disturbing, and I love it! At Christmas time, I sat her on a table as a sort of Goth version of an Elf on the Shelf. It was weird, I know. But, I'm weird.
I've stated before that I saw my first vampire movie when I was nine years old. It was no child's movie with a romantic twist, it was hard-core and I loved it! I began to immerse myself in everything vampire related, including folklore, to thoroughly understand my monster of choice. To say the least, this set me far apart from the other female third-graders.
As I grew older, I waited for my fascination with vampires to cease, but it never did. Now I know, without a doubt, that just like vampires themselves, my love for them will never die. But when I think back at my monster-loving childhood, I am reminded of just how far I stood out from so many other kids. I learned to hide this, and thus kept myself from being ridiculed too much.
If Monster High dolls were around while I was growing up, I wouldn't have felt so different. I would have been just like all the other little girls toting vampire, zombie and werewolf dollies. But I've learned that being just like everyone else isn't always such a great thing. So the next time you come across a "weird" kid that others laugh at, stop and think. Maybe that kid isn't so weird after all. Maybe they're just the trend-setter.
Friday, August 2, 2013
Vampire-Killing Kits
Okay, so let's set the scene....
It was a dark and stormy night. The vampire's castle sat atop a mountain, overlooking a village. The village people have grown tired of being frightened. They hire a vampire hunter to take care of the problem....
Sounds like an old monster movie? Yep, but it also has some truth to it.
You see back in the day, before science was able to explain just about everything, people were naturally more superstitious. There were signs and symptoms believed to be vampiric evidence. In other words, people believed that vampires existed. I know, I know, there are people today that hope and pray that vampires do exist. But to these simple people of long ago, vampires were total monsters, not the beautiful and sometimes sparkly (*ugh*) creatures that we know and love today. People would go out in search of vampires to set their souls free. With that being said, there were also kits one could acquire to aid in the killing of a vampire.
Some of the things that might end up in a vampire-killing kit would be:
It was a dark and stormy night. The vampire's castle sat atop a mountain, overlooking a village. The village people have grown tired of being frightened. They hire a vampire hunter to take care of the problem....
Sounds like an old monster movie? Yep, but it also has some truth to it.
You see back in the day, before science was able to explain just about everything, people were naturally more superstitious. There were signs and symptoms believed to be vampiric evidence. In other words, people believed that vampires existed. I know, I know, there are people today that hope and pray that vampires do exist. But to these simple people of long ago, vampires were total monsters, not the beautiful and sometimes sparkly (*ugh*) creatures that we know and love today. People would go out in search of vampires to set their souls free. With that being said, there were also kits one could acquire to aid in the killing of a vampire.
Some of the things that might end up in a vampire-killing kit would be:
- Stakes (sharp pointy objects)
- Crosses and crucifixes (religious symbolism)
- Holy water (to throw at the vampire)
- Matches or candles (for fire lighting)
- Mirrors (highly irritating to vampires)
- Garlic (or anything else that's stinky...onions, pungent cheese, etc.)
- The Bible (for scripture reading)
- Seeds (traditionally, vampires would have to stop and count every seed you threw at them)
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