Astral Codex Ten Podcast cover image

Astral Codex Ten Podcast

"Deros And The Ur-Abduction" In Asterisk

Apr 3, 2025
Explore the chilling concept of Ur-abductions, delving into cultural narratives of evil humanoid kidnappers. Discover the intriguing tales of the Deros, malevolent Atlantean dwarves that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. Uncover the dark history of abduction myths and how they evolve from folklore to modern tales. Delve into the connection between sleep paralysis and abduction experiences. Finally, trace the cultural evolution of hell, revealing profound influences from ancient religions and personal experiences.
34:39

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The concept of 'Ur-abduction' reflects humanity's deep-seated fears of unknown forces, showcased in various cultural legends about malevolent beings.
  • Richard Shaver's accounts of being tortured by Deros illustrate how sci-fi fandom can shape cultural myths and societal anxieties.

Deep dives

The Genesis of the Ur-Abduction Myth

The concept of the 'Ur-abduction' originates from various cultural tales where individuals are kidnapped by malevolent humanoids and subjected to horrifying experiences underground. This theme is prevalent across different cultures and time periods, showcasing a deep-seated anxiety about unknown forces lurking beneath the surface. Historical examples include Irish legends of children abducted by fairies and accounts from the Salem Witch Trials, which depict witches engaging in torturous rituals away from the prying eyes of society. The recurring motif suggests that these narratives offer insight into humanity's fears of what lies hidden beneath both physical and societal layers.

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