The dark histories behind your favorite scary words, with Jess Zafarris
Oct 24, 2023
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Author Jess Zafarris explores the dark histories and origins of scary words. She discusses the difference between terror and horror, the evolution of the word 'terrific,' the manipulation of scary words like Satan and bear euphemisms, and the origins and meanings of words related to the Arctic, banshees, Irish words, chimeras, chupacabras, dragons, and werewolves.
The word 'werewolf' originally referred to a 'man' in Old English, and it wasn't until Christian texts translated the word 'demon' that it became associated with evil spirits.
'Frankenstein' was coined by Mary Shelley for her book, and the name 'Frankenstein' in German means 'Frankonian mountain', potentially influenced by Frankenstein Castle in Germany known for alchemical experiments.
Deep dives
The Origins of Werewolves and the Meaning of Wér
The word "werewolf" comes from the Old English word "wér", which means "man". In Greek mythology, werewolves were considered lesser gods and not necessarily evil creatures. It wasn't until Christian texts translated the word "demon" that it became associated with evil spirits. In the 12th century, the word "demon" entered the English language and referred solely to evil spirits and devils.
The Story Behind Frankenstein and the Name Frankenstein
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein was inspired by a competition held at Lord Byron's estate, where she claimed to have had a vision about the monster. The name "Frankenstein" was coined by Shelley, and in the book, the monster is actually named Adam. Frankenstein Castle in Germany, known for alchemical experiments, may have also influenced the story. The original meaning of "Frankenstein" is "Frankonian mountain" in German.
Dragons and the Ancient Greek and Roman Mythology
The word "dragon" has roots in Greek and Latin, where it referred to huge serpents and great serpents, respectively. Dragons were often depicted as winged serpents in mythology and appeared in various cultures around the world. Chinese dragons, in particular, were revered and associated with thunder. Wyverns, which have two legs and two wings, are considered a type of dragon. The oldest recorded mythologies about dragons date back to ancient civilizations, including Greece, Rome, and China.
Vampires: Origins and Cultural Influence
The exact origin of the word "vampire" is uncertain, but it was likely adopted from Serbian and then German literature. The word may have roots in old Slavic languages, associated with sticking or thrusting, reflecting cultural anxieties at the time. The vampire craze began in the early 18th century after two suspected vampires were exhumed in Serbia. These cases fueled vampire folklore and influenced German literature, leading to the popularization of vampire fiction, including Bram Stoker's "Dracula" in the late 19th century.
951. What's the difference between terror and horror? Why was the word for "bear" so scary that it is lost to history? Jess Zafarris, author of "Words from Hell," goes through these stories and more in a scary, spooky etymology romp to help us get ready for Halloween.