Gone Medieval Monsters of the Medieval World
Jul 18, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Nick Jubber, author of 'Monsterland', shares his insights into the fascinating world of medieval monsters. He explores the Bavarian Dragon's fire-breathing legends and Japan's mischievous Oni, highlighting their roles in reflecting societal fears. Jubber also dives into the enchanting folklore of Orkney’s Selkies, revealing stories of transformation and connection to the sea. The conversation unwraps how these mythical creatures mirror human experiences and invite exploration of our own imaginations.
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Monsters Reflect Medieval Fears
- Medieval monsters reveal fears of the unknown, spiritual terrors, and the wild that is yet to be tamed.
- They served to assert territorial control and warn of dangers beyond civilization.
Monsters Move from Earth to Space
- Monsters in medieval times often embodied what was unknown or feared in distant or unexplored lands.
- We have moved monsters off earth to space in modern science fiction, reflecting persistent human need for monsters.
Bavarian Dragon Pageant Evolution
- In Bavaria, a spectacular dragon pageant has run since at least 1590, with a modern dragon costing 2 million euros.
- Today, audiences sympathize more with the dragon, seeing it as a symbol of ecological crisis and nature's wrath.
