The Book of were-Wolves

Name: The Book of were-Wolves
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould

The work explores the historical and folkloric aspects of werewolves, delving into the origins of lycanthropy and its manifestations across cultures. It begins with a personal anecdote that introduces the author’s fascination with werewolf legends, sparked by a local superstition in France. The narrative unfolds through a detailed examination of ancient texts, medieval accounts, and modern folklore, revealing a complex interplay between myth and reality. The author categorizes lycanthropy as a form of madness, where individuals believe they can transform into wolves, often driven by a primal craving for blood. This condition is linked to various historical figures and cases, illustrating how societal fears and individual psychoses have shaped the werewolf mythos. The text references classical literature, including works by Ovid and Virgil, which depict transformations and the consequences of such changes. The investigation extends to the Norse sagas, where the concept of shape-shifting is prevalent, and the berserkers—warriors who donned animal skins—are discussed as precursors to the werewolf legend. The author argues that these stories reflect deeper psychological truths about human nature and the innate violence that can surface under certain conditions. The work also addresses the legal and social implications of lycanthropy during the Middle Ages, where individuals accused of being werewolves faced trials and executions. The author presents several historical cases, including those of Gilles de Retz and other notorious figures, who were believed to have committed heinous acts under the guise of lycanthropy. Throughout the text, the author emphasizes the connection between werewolf legends and broader themes of cannibalism, cruelty, and the human psyche. The narrative culminates in a reflection on the persistence of these myths in contemporary culture, suggesting that the werewolf remains a potent symbol of humanity's darker instincts and the thin veneer of civilization. In summary, the work serves as a comprehensive exploration of werewolf lore, intertwining historical accounts, psychological analysis, and cultural commentary to illuminate the enduring fascination with these mythical creatures.

By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1865 · Genre: Non-Fiction, Folklore, Supernatural · 16 chapters · 64,145 words

First lines

I shall never forget the walk I took one night in Vienne, after having accomplished the examination of an unknown Druidical relic, the Pierre labie, at La Rondelle, near Champigni. I had learned of the existence of this cromlech only on my arrival at Champigni in the afternoon, and I had started to visit the curiosity without calculating the time it would take me to reach it and to return. Suffice it to say that I discovered the venerable pile of grey stones as the sun set, and that I expended the last lights of evening in planning and sketching. I then turned my face homeward. My walk of about ten miles had wearied me, coming at the end of a long day's posting, and I had lamed myself in scrambling over some stones to the Gaulish relic.

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The Book of were-Wolves is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1865 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
Date: 1865 CE
Language: English
Genres: Non-Fiction, Folklore, Supernatural, Horror, Mythology
Length: 64,145 words
Structure: 16 chapters, 845 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Non-Fiction — The book explores historical accounts and folklore related to werewolves, presenting factual information.
Folklore — It delves into various cultural myths and legends surrounding werewolves, highlighting their significance in folklore.
Supernatural — The subject matter involves supernatural elements, particularly the transformation of humans into wolves.
Horror — The themes of fear and the monstrous nature of werewolves contribute to a horror atmosphere.