The Clarke Charm Collection: Of Witch Bottles, Witch Cakes and Hag Stones
Clarke’s charm collection reveals a range of uses, including cures for sore throats, the protection of seafarers from drowning, and good luck charms.
Protection from Evil, Bad Traffic or Bears: Omamori in Japanese Culture
Although their origins lie in Japanese folk traditions, omamori are still a popular sight throughout Japan. The word itself, 御守り, doesn’t have a direct translation into English, but they are protection charms – usually for sale within both Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines – which are said to contain spirits.
Mythical Beasts: The Griffin, the Legendary King of All Creatures
A griffin is a legendary beast believed to be the offspring of a lion and an eagle, depicted in various ways by many different human cultures.
Japanese Folklore: Maruyama Ōkyo and the Ghost of Oyuki
In 1750, Edo-period Japan, Maruyama Ōkyo opened his eyes from a fitful sleep and beheld a dead woman.
Restless Ghosts and Black Dogs: Was Black Vaughan Really as Evil as Rumour Tells?
According to local legend, after Black Vaughan’s headless body was buried, he proved to be a restless spirit who wreaked havoc amongst the townsfolk.