Alexei Petrovich Yermolov (Алексей Петрович Ермолов, 1777–1861) was a Russian general and statesman active during the Napoleonic Wars and the Caucasian War. Recognized for his military strategy and administration, Yermolov wrote works on his campaigns and experiences, including his Mélanges, a collection containing an account of a haunted house in Moscow. This anecdote stands among … Read more
Joost van den Vondel (1587–1679) was a Dutch poet, playwright, and author. He is noted for his dramatic work Lucifer (1654), which influenced later writers and contributed to the development of Dutch literature. Lucifer is a verse drama depicting the rebellion of Lucifer and the fallen angels, integrating biblical themes and classical form. Related Posts:Mythological … Read more
Veil (in Jewish modern tradition) refers to the belief that covering one’s face with a veil prevents a ghost (dybbuk or ruach) from recognizing the individual who fears it. However, it is held that if God judges the person as deserving punishment due to sins, the veil or mask will fall, allowing the ghost to … Read more
Vocératrices (voceratrici, buccratrici) in Corsica are women who perform improvised laments, known as vocero (or buceru, buceratu), during funerals, particularly when the deceased was the victim of homicide. The custom involves placing the body on a table while female relatives, friends, or renowned local women with poetic talent deliver verses in the Corsican dialect. Sometimes … Read more
Antoine Van Dale (1638–1708) was a Dutch physician and scholar who examined religious superstition from a rationalist perspective. His main work, De oraculis veterum ethnicorum (1683), critiqued the belief in ancient oracles, proposing natural explanations for their phenomena. The book was later abridged by Bernard le Bovier de Fontenelle, increasing its influence in Enlightenment circles. … Read more
Urine has held a place in folk medicine and magical practices across various cultures. Traditional beliefs describe urine as having curative properties for ailments such as scalp ringworm, ear ulcers, and bites from snakes and venomous creatures, provided the urine comes from a healthy individual. Accounts exist of urine used in weather magic, including rainmaking, … Read more
Jean Trithème (Johannes Trithemius, 1462–1516) was a German Benedictine abbot, cryptographer, and scholar. He is noted for his contributions to steganography, the art of secret writing, and was considered by some to be a magician. His works, especially on the occult, attracted suspicion and led to the burning of some manuscripts by Frederick II, Elector … Read more
The Secret Tribunal (Vehmic Court, Vehmgericht) was a clandestine judicial institution that operated in the Holy Roman Empire, especially in Westphalia, from at least the 13th century until its abolition in 1512 by Emperor Maximilian I. The etymology traces to the Saxon word vehmen, meaning ‘condemner.’ The court’s origins have been associated with Charlemagne, who … Read more
Underground Treasures in Scottish and Breton folklore are believed to exist beneath mountains, guarded by supernatural beings. In Scotland, treasures are watched over by giants and fairies, while in Brittany guardians may include an old man, an old woman, a serpent, a black dog, or small demons a foot tall. Rituals for acquiring these treasures … Read more
Earthquake Beliefs in the Andes refer to the traditional interpretation among the indigenous peoples of the Andean mountains that earthquakes occur when God leaves the sky to review all mortals. Upon feeling even a slight tremor, villagers exit their huts, run, jump, and stomp their feet while crying out: ‘Here we are! Here we are!’ … Read more