About Mythical Ghosts & Goblins

From the dawn of time, people have told stories about mythic monsters such as ghosts and goblins. They embody our fears of the unknown, and provide a way to grapple with those fears in safe (and enjoyable) ways.

Banshee

A banshee is an Irish spirit whose wail signals an impending death. In some stories, the banshee's cry is itself fatal.

Redcap

Redcaps are sinister goblins who dwell in the north of England. They must dip their hats in the fresh blood of their victims each day or else they'll die.

Brownie

Brownies are benevolent goblins who do small chores around the home while people sleep. If homeowners don't leave them a saucer of milk, however, they'll get angry and break things.

Onryo

An Onryo is a ghost from Japan who returns to seek vengeance after a wrongful death.

Kappa

Kappa are small turtle-like goblins, also from Japan. The tops of their heads are filled with water, which grants them supernatural powers.

References

• "Encyclopedia of Faeries"; Katharine Briggs; 1978
• "In Ghostly Japan"; Lafcadio Hearn; 2005