The Myth of the Werewolf

This is a historical and anthropological study of the myth of the werewolf aimed at reflecting on the metamorphoses of evil and understanding the long evolution of a mythical structure. Legends and folklore allow us to explore the brutal bestiality of a figure loaded with sexuality, eroticism, and desire. From ancient times to the present day, the tragic narrative universe of a strange and dangerous wild world is unfolded, with elements of tenderness, that has contributed to defining the profile of civilization as its opposite. The myth was contaminated with religious fanaticism when werewolves were persecuted and burned during the times of the witch hunts.

Offers a panoramic view of the evolution of the myth of the werewolf and an anthropological dissection of its traits Provides a historical and anthropological study on the myth of the werewolf which reflects on the metamorphoses of evil Explores the bestiality of a figure loaded with sexuality, eroticism, and desire, from ancient times to the present day

Autorentext

Roger Bartra is a Mexican and Catalan anthropologist and sociologist. He works as a research fellow at the University of Mexico (UNAM).

Inhalt

1. Werewolves in Antiquity.- 2. The Metamorphosis.- 3. The Diabolical Werewolf.- 4. The Incarnation.- 5. Lupine Melancholy.- 6. The Legends.- 7. Livonia, Land of the Werewolf.- 8. About She-Wolves and Little Red Riding Hoods.- 9. The Decline of the Myth.- 10. The Revival.- Epilogue.