CH Horror

[gabehorror]

Wk 13

This week I decided to write about a duppy. A duppy is within Caribbean folklore and refers to a spirit that usually has malevolent tendencies.  It originates from West African Spiritual beliefs, specifically from Akan. When the enslaved Africans were brought to the Caribbean, they introduced their folklore and beliefs.  Some of the names of duppies are called the rolling calf, old figure, and shadow people. The rolling calf is believed to be described as a fearsome duppy in the form of a bull or cow, often with chains clanking. It likes to roam at night and scare travelers. The old figure is a vampire-like duppy but is usually an old woman who removes her skin at night and sucks the blood of babies. Lastly, the shadow people are spirits that appear darker like a shadowy look. Duppies are believed to come out at night and in lonely places. Graveyards and cotton trees are believed to be their homes. Also, Duppies can possess people and give bad luck, and some ways of protecting yourself can be Sprinkling salt near your home,  turning clothing inside out, Placing rice or sand at the doorstep, and Reading scriptures or prayers to scare them off. A piece of pop culture duppies are engraved in are in reggae/dancehall music. A good example of this would be seen in reggae music such as Duppy Conqueror by Bob Marley, which stands for having a victory over negative forces in life.  Another pop culture reference would be in Drake's song “ Duppy Freestyle”.

I believe that Duppy may be real because I think negative forces and evil spirits exist. I already believe in African culture such as Vodoo. I believe that duppies are harmful spirits and we should take caution just like we should with any other evil force. I would be a little fearful, and try my best to protect by sprinkling salt or placing rice/sand. 

[ch-ghosthorror]

I believe in the idea of Duppies. I believe in bad spirits or voodoo, so I think the energy behind duppies is real.

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 13- Hobgoblin

I'm sure most people know what a goblin is, and believe a hobgoblin is another kind of a goblin , because I did too. The word "hobgoblin" is a combination of "hob" (a term for a rustic or household spirit) and "goblin" (a more general term for a mischievous, often malevolent creature). The term "hob" likely derives from the Old English word hobe or hopp, which referred to a small, rural, or woodland spirit, while "goblin" comes from the Old French gobelin, a demonic figure. Hobgoblins are typically depicted as smaller humanoid creatures, resembling goblins. Hobgoblins are known for causing mischief, but tend to be more playful than malicious. Hobgoblins might enjoy pranks or simple tricks, such as hiding objects, making noise in the night, or causing small disturbances. In other tales, hobgoblins take on a darker nature and become more dangerous, harassing or frightening people

hobgoblins and goblins share many similarities, the key difference lies in temperament and behavior:

Goblins are typically more chaotic, unpredictable, and outright malicious. They are often associated with violence, theft, and causing harm for fun.

Hobgoblins, while still mischievous, are often depicted as slightly more organized and can sometimes be helpful or protective, particularly in household settings. They are less chaotic than goblins and sometimes operate under a code or structure.

Films that portray the idea of hobgoblins- “Hobgoblins”  “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone”

I don’t believe in hobgoblins or goblins, I think it’s more of a folklore but I enjoy the Harry Potter movies  

[rentootact]

Wk 12 Blog

Night Marchers, known as huaka‘i pō in Hawaiian mythology, are the ghostly apparitions of ancient Hawaiian warriors who are said to roam the islands at night, following sacred paths they once traveled. According to legend, these spectral figures appear in processions, accompanied by the sound of conch shells, chanting, and drumbeats, often carrying torches. They are believed to be spirits of the past, returning to perform sacred duties or to escort high-ranking chiefs. What makes them particularly frightening is the belief that encountering them can bring dire consequences. It is said that anyone who interrupts their procession or looks directly at them risks death unless they lie face down in respect or are of Hawaiian descent with familial ties to the marchers. The combination of their ghostly presence, ominous sounds, and the cultural significance of their legends creates a chilling and deeply rooted fear for those who encounter their stories.

A movie that relates to the legend of the Night Marchers is "The Night Marchers" (2001), a supernatural thriller inspired by Hawaiian folklore. The film explores the eerie encounters of characters with these ghostly warriors, blending local mythology with modern storytelling. Another example is "The Wind and the Reckoning" (2022), while not explicitly about Night Marchers, it incorporates Hawaiian cultural themes and mystical elements.

Additionally, movies like "Kuleana" (2017) and "Aloha Scooby-Doo!" touch on Hawaiian legends and supernatural elements, indirectly referencing similar cultural myths. These films showcase the deep cultural roots and spiritual significance of Hawaiian stories, including those of the Night Marchers.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I also wrote about the "Night Marchers" I believe that cultural idea behind them is very fascinating, and I loved the movie "Aloha Scooby Doo" movie growing up.

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 12- Changeling

I don’t know if most have heard of a “Changeling”, I haven't but the name is kind of self explanatory. A changeling is a creature from folklore, mythology, and fantasy literature, often depicted as a supernatural being capable of assuming the form of a human or another creature. In European folklore, changelings were believed to be fairy children, who were secretly swapped with human babies. The human child would be stolen away by the fairies, and in its place, the changeling, often described as sickly, deformed, or odd, would be left behind. The sadder history is “changelings” were used to describe or explain mysterious illnesses, behavioral illnesses, or children who seemed unusually strange or difficult.

There were various rituals and superstitions around identifying and dealing with changelings, such as exposing them to fire or other supernatural methods, which were thought to force the changeling to reveal itself. 

Examples of changelings in film: “The Changeling”- A famous horror film where the main character encounters the restless ghost of a child who was believed to have been a changeling. “The 5th Wave”- The aliens in this post-apocalyptic novel and its film adaptation use "changeling" as a term for humans who are taken over by alien invaders.

Im not sure if Changelings were real, but the way people believed it in the Victorian age is interesting

[horrorgalore0]

WK10 - Yokai

✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ── ✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ──── ⋅ ⋅ ── ✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ──── ✩ ─

✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ── ✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ──── ⋅ ⋅ ── ✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ──── ✩ ─

I couldn’t help myself but dwell deeper into Yokai!

Okay so, Japanese Yokai (妖怪) are a class of supernatural creatures in Japanese folklore that cover a wide range of entities, including spirits, monsters, and apparitions. The term "yokai" can be translated to mean "strange apparition" or "mysterious phenomenon." These beings have been part of Japanese culture for centuries, appearing in literature, art, and oral traditions.

There are two different types of yokai: benevolent yokai and malevolent yokai! Benevolent yokai are often considered good. They are sometimes helpful, protective, and kind to humans. Malevolent yokai are oppositely negative and are usually mischievous and harmful.

Yokai exhibit a diverse variety of appearances and characteristics, ranging from the grotesque to the whimsical. They often embody natural elements, human emotions, or societal fears, reflecting the complexities of life in Japan. Over time, yokai have influenced popular culture, appearing in anime, mangas, shows, movies, and video games, ensuring their continued relevance in contemporary society.

I’m sure I’ll encounter another being soon, whether I want to or not😔. Stay safe and stay tuned y’all💪

[jasonghostandhorror]

Cool post, Angelina. I've never heard of a yokai before. I like how you put details and facts about your monster.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I never heard of a yokai before, I don't think this is a real creature but it is an interesting monster. Interesting post!

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 10- Nightmarchers

I wasn’t aware of what a nightmarcher was, I thought it would be flying spirits. The Nightmarchers  are part of Hawaiian folklore tradition. It stretches back to ancient times. They are considered to be the spirits of Hawaiian warriors, high-ranking chiefs, and ancient Hawaiian royalty. In traditional Hawaiian belief, mana was considered essential for leaders, warriors, and shamans (called kahuna) to perform in sacred rituals or in battle.

The Nightmarchers are believed to be the spirits of great warriors and chiefs who were once highly respected during their lifetimes, and were often warriors who fought to defend the land and people. The areas where Nightmarchers are said to travel are often considered sacred, such as ancient battlefields, burial grounds, and important sites in Hawaiian history. These places were viewed as being imbued with a sacred energy, and the presence of the Nightmarchers. The most crucial part of the Nightmarcher myth is the respect shown toward them. If you see them, you must lie on the ground, face down, and show utter submission. This act of humility is necessary to avoid angering the spirits and suffering their wrath. If someone does not show respect, the Nightmarchers are believed to attack or even take the person with them to the spiritual realm.

Films that decipt the nightmarchers are “The Nightmarchers”, Aloha, Kohala: The Legends of the Nightmarchers

[theprofessionalgamer]

Blog Post 9: Facing Our Inner Demons – What do They Mean

Demons aren’t just characters in horror stories anymore; Storytellers of today have made them more human. When they are not like us. They have human emotions and struggles in these shows. Psychologists, people who study the human mind, often talk about “inner demons” to describe tough feelings, like fears, sadness, or habits we want to change. When we say someone is “facing their inner demons,” it means they’re dealing with personal challenges and trying to understand their emotions. Thinking about our “inner demons” can help us learn more about ourselves and find ways to feel better and stronger.

Philosophers, who study big questions about life, also use the idea of demons in their work. For example, a philosopher named René Descartes came up with a thought experiment where he imagined an “evil demon” that could trick him into believing things that aren’t real. This helped him think about what he could truly know for sure. Demons, in philosophy, help people think about what’s real and what’s right and wrong. So, while demons may seem scary, they can help us understand big ideas about life and ourselves. In the next post, I’ll talk about the other side—how demons have been used in comedy and jokes, letting people laugh at what usually scares us.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I agree that the term of "demons" have started transferring for a way for normal humans to express their emotions. Some people face a lot of trauma so it makes them relate their emotions as demons. Interesting take!

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 9- Revenant

I'm pretty sure most people don’t know what a Revenant is, because I didn’t either! Revenant’s originate from the French word “revenir", meaning "to return." It was first used in the 18th century in English to refer to those who returned from the dead. In medieval Europe, the idea of revenants' was because of the belief in the return of those who are dead.

It was a widespread idea across various cultures, including the Celtic, Norse, and Slavic traditions. The idea of the revenant made its way into literature, particularly with Gothic horror and Romanticism. Many classic horror tales feature undead beings or spirits who return for revenge. An example of this is “Stoker's Dracula“ (1897), this  featured undead creatures that were revenants, returning to the world of the living to drain the blood of the living. In modern times, the concept of the revenant has evolved in horror films, novels, and video games. The revenant's appearance can range from an ethereal ghost to flesh-eating creatures. Films showcasing revenants are those such as The Revenant, pet Sematary, The Return of the Living Dead, Corpse Bride, etc

I think revenants are real in a way, but not exactly how they are portrayed. I will definitely watch one of the movies that I found

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 7- Sirens

I think everyone knows what a siren is, but most confuse it with a mermaid. Sirens originate from ancient Greek mythology. In Homer's "Odyssey,"  they sing alluring songs to tempt Odysseus and his crew to steer their ship toward dangerous rocks and shipwreck, or to jump in the ocean. Odysseus, warned, has his men plug their ears with beeswax and he ties himself to the mast to resist their calls. They are depicted as beautiful women with tails, similar to mermaids. Sirens often symbolize temptation, danger, and their songs are said to have a seductive power. They’re often confused with mermaids, the difference is, sirens are typically depicted as more evil, using their songs to cause shipwrecks, whereas mermaids are portrayed as more neutral.

I do think sirens are real because there is a lot about the ocean we don’t know and numerous accounts of them have been reported 

Films that depict sirens, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides , Aquaman, H20, Siren 

My favorite film that depicts sirens is H20, because i used to watch that show all the time

[rentootact]

In Irish and Celtic mythology, a banshee is a spirit that is frequently portrayed as a female ghost or fairy that cries or wails in order to predict death. Typically, the banshee makes a piercing, tragic shriek to alert a family of an approaching death. She is typically characterized as having long, flowing hair, a pale, bony facial features, and a white or gray cloak, all of which contribute to her unsettling presence. As a death signal, the banshee's terrible demeanor stems from her ability to create terror or dread in anybody who hears her piercing wails. According to mythology, one does not become a banshee by using regular methods. According to certain traditions, banshees are the ghosts of women who passed very brutally or unfairly and are still connected to their mortal lives.

Very distinct from its traditional mythology roots, the banshee is presented in the television series Charmed as a terrifying supernatural monster. The banshee is portrayed as a demonic monster in the Season 3, Episode 21 episode "Look Who's Barking." It preys on people who are experiencing emotional pain, intensifies their sorrow, and then kills them with a high-pitched scream. In this episode, the banshee is an actual murderer as well as a prophet of death. She poses a serious threat to the Charmed Ones because of her scream, which has the ability to shatter glass and hurt other people.

The idea that someone who endures intense emotional suffering could become a banshee is also introduced in the episode, as demonstrated by Phoebe, one of the sisters, who momentarily assumes the shape of a banshee as a result of unresolved grief. This turn of events gives the mythology an unique flair by portraying the banshee as a symbol of unresolved trauma as opposed to merely a death threat. The way the banshee is portrayed in the show makes her more terrifying since it makes her seem more like a predator than just a death omen.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I didn't know what a banshee was, so this was very informative. I watched charmed but the newer series. This clip madame want to watch charmed from the beginning

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 6- The Flying Dutchman

I'm not sure if you guys know who the flying Dutchman is, because I didn’t know myself. The tale of the Flying Dutchman started in the 17th century, during the Age of Sail.  It was created by Dutch sailors, who faced the dangerous sea and died. It is said that its captain cursed his crew and they are unable to find peace. The ship is often described as ghostly, and with a glowing appearance. Sailors who see sightings of the Flying Dutchman at sea are known to be faced with bad luck after. If you see the ship, it is an omen of disaster. 

Films that portray the Flying Dutchman are the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, The phantom ship, The flying dutchman, and a few other films. 

I never fully watched Pirates of the Caribbean so I didn’t know what the Flying Dutchman was, but after research I watched the Pirates of Caribbean films.

I don't necessarily believe this is real, but I do believe there are some spirits in the ocean

[judesterror]

Wk 5

The Will-o’-the-Wisp is a glowing light seen in marshes and swamps, featured in many cultural myths. In European folklore, it’s linked to spirits or fairies leading travelers astray. In Pixar’s Brave (2012), the lights guide Merida on her journey. Scientifically, it may result from gases like methane combusting over decaying matter. Though the phenomenon is likely natural, its eerie presence feels otherworldly, blending science with superstition.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I like the movie brave too! super interesting

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 5- Werewolf

I'm sure we all know what a werewolf is, who doesn’t! Werewolves are in films such as, Howl, the twilight films, teen wolf, zootopia, the originals, etc. The concept of werewolves dates back to ancient times, The term "werewolf" comes from the Old English "wer" (man) and "wulf" (wolf). Werewolves are often portrayed as humans cursed with the ability to transform into wolves during a full moon, magical spells, or bites from another werewolf. They gain supernatural strength, speed, and heightened senses. In many werewolf stories, They develop a bloodlust and a loss of human control during their transformations.

My favorite film that depicts werewolves is Twilight, I love all of the twilight movies 

[tallcrishorror]

WBK: 4

Spectre: The Unseen Horror

Spectres are ethereal, ghost-like beings often described as manifestations of lingering souls or unresolved trauma. Typically tied to the dead, they hover between worlds, and their appearance often coincides with dark, unsettling environments—cemeteries, battlefields, or abandoned places. Unlike more corporeal spirits, Spectres lack a physical form, which makes them both more elusive and terrifying, as they often seem to materialize from nowhere, haunting with an icy presence or a bone-chilling whisper.

Historically, the term “spectre” has been used as a synonym for ghost, but it carries a darker, more sinister connotation. A Spectre is not just a restless spirit—it is often associated with revenge, sorrow, or a warning, appearing to those who are destined to face their demise. In some folklore, Spectres are seen as omens of death, making their haunting all the more frightening.

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One of the most recognizable uses of the term “Spectre” in pop culture is in the James Bond franchise, where “SPECTRE” (Special Executive for Counter-intelligence, Terrorism, Revenge, and Extortion) is a nefarious organization. Though unrelated to ghostly phenomena, this use of the term evokes similar feelings of dread, secrecy, and danger. In a sense, the criminal organization operates like an unseen force, striking fear into its enemies and remaining shrouded in mystery, much like the spectral entities in folklore.

A more literal use can be seen in horror media such as Crimson Peak (2015), where the ghostly apparitions behave in a very spectre-like manner—shadows of the past that linger due to tragedy and vengeance. The ghostly presence in the film is not just a scary visual, but a manifestation of trauma and guilt, reminiscent of the folklore surrounding Spectres.

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So, could the concept of Spectres be based on something real? Some suggest that what we perceive as ghosts, spectres, or other paranormal beings might be a result of psychological phenomena. Sleep paralysis, for instance, has been frequently linked to ghost sightings, where the brain awakens before the body, leading to visions of shadowy figures and otherworldly entities.

Another possibility is that Spectres could be connected to the natural human fear of the unknown and the dark. Our brains are wired to perceive threats, especially in poorly lit environments where shapes and shadows can easily be misconstrued as something more sinister. In this sense, Spectres might be our own psychological projections, born out of fear, grief, or trauma.

That said, there are still countless stories from all corners of the world that speak of real encounters with these beings. In some cultures, their existence is an accepted truth, a part of everyday life that’s not questioned. So tk be honest i’m not completely sure what to believe. I guess it depends on different perspectives and beliefs.

[ch-ghosthorror]

This was really informative to read, I believe Scecctres can be in our head and real

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk 4- Boggart

A Boggart originates from English folklore, particularly in England. Boggarts are spirits that can take on various forms, often appearing as a nuisance. The name "Boggart" comes from the Old English word "boga," meaning "to bend" or "to cause trouble." They do actions such as, moving objects, making strange noises, or scaring people. Boggarts are said to be shape-shifters, which means they change their appearance to create fear and confusion.

I think the best representation of the Boggart, is in the Harry Potter movies, it is depicted as a creature that takes the form of a person's worst fear.

Other films that depict boggarts such as The Spiderwick Chronicles, Boggart, and other Harry Potter movies

[ch-ghosthorror]

Wk3- Shapeshifter

I think everyone knows what a shapeshifter is or at least the concept of it! A shapeshifter is a mythical or fictional being that has the ability to change its form or appearance at any time.. Films that showcase shapeshifters are many such as, The Umbrella Academy, The X-Files, The Flash, Supernatural, The originals, Freaky Friday, etc.

Shapeshifters can transform into animals, other humans, or even objects. Many ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks, Romans, featured shapeshifters in their myths. For example,  gods like Zeus transformed into various forms to interact with mortals. In many cultures, stories of shapeshifting beings emerged as explanations for moral lessons. Native American folklore includes skinwalkers, who are said to be witches that can transform into animals.

In my opinion, my favorite movie is the disney movie Freaky Friday where the mother and daughter swap bodies and have to spend the day as the other. 

[vuudxoo]

WK2 - Will o' the wisp - 9/20/24

Greeting blog!! So, let's talk about the Will o' the wisp!

those eerie lights that appear in a lot of different stories, you might think of them as a kind of precursor to ghost stories. They show up over wetlands marshes, swamps that's the kind of environment you might see one at night. They also have some association with leading people astray, and they're certainly ghost story material if you ask me, so if you're looking for something to give a bit of a fright, you've found it! The name "Will o' the wisp" literally means "Will of the torch."

One of the neatest and well known references to the Will o' the wisp in pop culture comes from the Disney/Pixar film "Brave." In this movie, the character Merida follows some glowing blue lights that lead her to a witch's cabin. Now, take a simple guess what those little blue light people were? Will o' the wisps, wooo yeah! These appear similarly in the video game "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," where proffered glowing orbs can lead you to treasure ... probably or danger. Yikes.

The scientific explanation is as follows, these lights can be clarified through the oxidation of gases, such as methane, that are emitted by the decaying organic matter. When these gases interact with the oxygen in the air, they can combust, resulting in those flickering lights. So, while the notion of lights of a ghostly origin is very cool and kind of creepy in my opinion, it's almost certainly just a natural occurrence.

[ch-ghosthorror]

I totally didn't know that this was a real thing, I thought it was only something portrayed in the movies, and didn't know it had a scientific explanation, Thanks for sharing!