The Book of Were-Wolves

Name: The Book of Were-Wolves
Author: S. Baring-Gould

By S. Baring-Gould

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History - Other Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

A scholarly survey of beliefs and reports about human-to-wolf transformation, tracing references from ancient writers and Norse sagas through medieval Europe to comparative folk‑tales worldwide. The text collects trial reports, regional legends, and alleged eyewitness accounts while exploring linguistic, legal, and cultural contexts that shaped the notion of lycanthropy. It evaluates folkloric motifs and ritual practices, presents case studies and alleged crimes attributed to transformed people, and discusses natural, psychological, and mythological explanations, aiming to show how narrative traditions, social responses, and perceived phenomena combined to sustain the were‑wolf superstition.

About the Author

S. Baring-Gould

Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924) was an English author, antiquarian, and folklorist, known for his extensive writings on regional history and folklore. He produced a diverse body of work, including travel literature, novels, and studies of local customs. His notable titles include "A Book of Cornwall" and "A Book of Dartmoor," which reflect his deep appreciation for the landscapes and cultures of these regions. Baring-Gould was also a prolific hymn writer and contributed significantly to the preservation of English folklore and traditions. His works continue to be valued for their rich detail and insight into the social history of England.