Lore Legends 22: Trickster Devils
Mar 4, 2024
This podcast discusses legends of trickster devils, including the mischievous Lincoln Imp in Lincoln Cathedral, Nakalavi and Jack O'Kent in Orkadian folklore, devilish characters in British tales, and the dark history of Bloody Tam in Scotland.
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Age Darkens Stories
- Older stories tend to become darker as they age, losing bright details and gaining violence and fear.
- Tracing fairy tales and old places reveals how time and tragedy add a tarnished layer to narratives.
The Lincoln Imp Origin Tale
- The Lincoln Imp is a small carved grotesque inside Lincoln Cathedral turned to stone by an angel for mischief.
- Legend says one imp was petrified while its partner escaped, blamed for gusts of wind outside the cathedral.
From Legend To Civic Brand
- The Lincoln Imp evolved from a cautionary legend into a civic symbol and tourist draw for Lincoln.
- The city monetized the figure across souvenirs and even its football team's crest.