Mythcœur

Tag: folklore

  • The New Folklore of the Internet – From Creepypasta to digital rituals.

    The New Folklore of the Internet – From Creepypasta to digital rituals.





    The New Folklore of the Internet – From Creepypasta to digital rituals

    The New Folklore of the Internet – From Creepypasta to digital rituals

    In an era where digital connectivity has become a cornerstone of modern society, it’s no surprise that new forms of folklore have emerged. This article delves into the fascinating world of internet mythology, from the chilling tales of Creepypasta to the peculiar practices of digital rituals.

    Creepypasta: Unsettling Tales for a Digital Age

    “The Internet is an infinite source of inspiration, and Creepypasta provides endless chills.” – Simon Stalenhag, Swedish illustrator and designer.
    Source

    First surfacing in the early 2000s, Creepypasta are horror stories that have been shared and transformed online. The name is a blend of ‘copy-pasted’ and ‘pasta’, indicating its roots in urban legends. These spine-tingling tales often revolve around paranormal or supernatural themes, and they continue to captivate internet users.

    Digital Rituals: Connecting through Shared Practices

    “We are now witnesses to the creation of new myths and rituals that bind us together in a shared digital experience.” – Henry Jenkins, media scholar.
    Source

    Digital rituals represent another facet of internet folklore, where shared practices help users form connections. Examples include the annual event known as April Fool’s Day pranks or the more recent phenomenon of participating in the Ice Bucket Challenge to raise awareness for ALS research. These communal activities reinforce bonds between people and create a sense of belonging within an increasingly digital world.

  • Changeling Children – Folklore as a mirror for neurodiversity.

    Changeling Children – Folklore as a mirror for neurodiversity.






    Changeling Children – Folklore as a mirror for neurodiversity

    Changeling Children: A Reflection on Neurodiversity in Folklore

    In the realm of mythology and folklore, tales of Changelings have persisted throughout history, particularly prevalent in European cultures. These stories often revolve around fairies or other supernatural beings replacing human children with their own offspring, thus bestowing a child with supposedly ‘otherworldly’ characteristics.

    “The changeling is a common figure in folklore, representing a child who is believed to have been replaced by a fairy or other supernatural being.”
    – Encyclopedia Britannica
    Britannica: Changeling

    The Connection Between Changelings and Neurodiversity

    Interestingly, the characteristics attributed to Changelings bear a striking resemblance to those associated with neurodivergent individuals – people who have brains that function differently from the ‘average’ brain. These differences can manifest in conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.

    “It’s fascinating to consider how these folktales might reflect historical misunderstandings of neurodivergent individuals, who may have appeared ‘otherworldly’ or ‘unusual’ in the context of their communities.”
    – Dr. Alice Proctor, Folklorist
    HuffPost: Neurodiversity and Folklore

    Exploring Modern Perceptions

    Today, we have a more profound understanding of neurodivergent individuals and their unique strengths. The tales of Changelings offer an intriguing perspective on how societal perceptions and attitudes towards those who think differently have evolved over time.

    “The changeling story tells us a lot about the way our ancestors struggled to make sense of differences that seemed inexplicable at the time. But it also offers a reminder that, throughout history, there have always been those who saw past the strange behaviors and recognized the inherent worth and value of every individual.”
    – Dr. Sarah Peverley, Mythologist
    Smithsonian Magazine: Changelings Are Back, Today They’re People with Autism