Explore the deadly allure of cursed books and haunted tomes in this episode. From arsenic-laden green pigments to the mysterious Devil's Bible, uncover the dark secrets that lie within literature. Plus, learn about Mint Mobile's affordable wireless plans and the enigmatic Vatican Secret Archives.
Books hold power in folklore with cursed literature, portraying deadly content and supernatural abilities.
Arsenic-based green pigments in everyday products pose health hazards, showcasing hidden dangers in common items.
Deep dives
The Power of Books
Books have been pivotal in shaping individuals from childhood, teaching basic knowledge like the alphabet, moving on to detailed textbook information in areas like physics and history. Society often instills fear in authorities and governments due to the knowledge accessible through books. Folklore tales take this further, attributing supernatural powers to certain books, suggesting some can be dangerously powerful, potentially even deadly due to their content.
The Deadly Schiel's Green
In the 18th century, Carl Wilhelm Schiel developed a green pigment called Schiel's green, using arsenic as a key ingredient. This deadly concoction led to illnesses like ulcers, nerve damage, and even cancer upon exposure. Arsenic-based green pigments became trendy and found in various products, causing health hazards. From wallpapers to paints, arsenic's toxicity pervaded households, leading to severe health repercussions, showcasing the dangers of seemingly innocuous everyday products.
The Leather-Bound Memoir
A unique memoir bound in deerskin created by George Walton recounts his life, filled with criminal activities and an attempted robbery. After a life marred by bad choices and final incarceration, Walton's memoir was published posthumously, emphasizing his request to use his own skin for the book's cover, signifying an eerie reminder of his life's troubles.
The Devil's Bible
The Codex Gigas, known as The Devil's Bible, is a massive volume containing medical texts, historical works, and even spells. Its origins shrouded in legend, with claims of a monk selling his soul to complete it in a single night. Though steeped in mystery, the Devil's Bible's ominous reputation lingers, linked to strange side effects on those who interact with it, fueling folklore surrounding cursed literature.
Cursed literature and haunted tomes fill a category of folklore that never gets enough love. This tour through the some of history’s most deadly books is sure to help you find a few new favorites.
Narrated and produced by Aaron Mahnke, with writing by Harry Marks and research byCassandra de Alba.
Mint Mobile: For a limited time, wireless plans from Mint Mobile are $15 a month when you purchase a 3-month plan with UNLIMITED talk, text and data at MintMobile.com/lore.
Article: Beautiful, high quality furniture with a delightful design (and price) for every home. Get $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more at Article.com/LORE.
Harry’s: Don’t settle for the status quo. Get started with a $13 trial shave set for just $3 at Harrys.com/LORE.
To report a concern regarding a radio-style, non-Aaron ad in this episode, reach out to ads@lorepodcast.com with the name of the company or organization so we can look into it.