In the folklore of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, the wulver is a creature with a man’s body and a wolf’s head. Despite its monstrous appearance, it is a gentle and solitary being. Related articles: the Story of the Wulver in Scotland Unlike a werewolf, the wulver is not a transformed human and is naturally kind. It … Read more
The evil eye is a widespread belief in a malevolent glare, usually directed at a person who is unaware, that can cause misfortune, injury, or even death. Rooted in the idea that envy or excessive praise can manifest as a tangible curse, this belief has persisted for millennia, with its origins tracing back to ancient … Read more
Ychain-bonawgs are monstrous cattle from Scottish folklore, believed to haunt the mountains. Invisible to human eyes, these creatures are credited with the strength to split or move entire mountains. Their roars, said to be heard up to ten leagues away, are described as terrifying and capable of shaking windows. The motif connects to Celtic legends … Read more
Walter Scott (1771–1832) was a Scottish novelist and historian whose works frequently draw from folklore, demonology, and witchcraft traditions. He published a collection of letters discussing demonology, witches, and related popular beliefs. These letters examine the belief in apparitions, the tradition of original sin, and interpretations of magicians and diviners in ancient law and custom. … Read more
Walter was the uncle of King James I of Scotland. Historical records recount that Walter, also called Gauthier in French sources, murdered King James I in his bed during the night, with the intent to claim the throne. After the assassination, Walter was apprehended in Edinburgh and subjected to public execution. He was exposed on … Read more
Second Sight (vue) is the belief, especially in Scottish and Breton folklore, that certain individuals possess the ability to foresee the future or perceive distant events through a supernatural sense. In Scotland, this is often called an dà shealladh. The phenomenon is associated with prophecy, warnings of death, or other significant occurrences. Similar traditions of … Read more
Duffo, also known as Duffus, was a King of Scotland. During his reign, Duffo suffered from an illness, leading to the arrest of several sorcerers in his kingdom. These sorcerers were accused of roasting an image resembling the king over a small fire, a spell they confessed was causing the monarch’s ailment. Following their arrest, … Read more
Bassantin (Jacques), a Scottish astrologer in 1562, is noted for his predictions concerning Mary Stuart during her refuge in England. According to the memoirs of his brother, Jacques Melvil, Bassantin accurately foresaw some events affecting Mary Stuart, though his other predictions did not materialize. He authored a significant treatise on astrology, published in both French … Read more
Alexander III (Alaxandair mac Alaxandair), King of Scotland, married Yolande of Dreux in 1285. On their wedding night, a spectral figure is said to have appeared during the festivities, dancing with a veiled shadow. This apparition disturbed the guests, halting the celebrations. It was interpreted as an omen foretelling the king’s imminent death. Indeed, later … Read more
