Extra Credit 4 - Research
Alexander Bowne
Faerie One: The Peg Powler
The Peg Powler is a hag-like faerie (like Jenny Greenteeth or Grindylows) that lures mortals to the water's edge, takes hold of their ankles, and drags them under to drown in her arms. Of course, not wanting to waste what nature has given her, she is generally known to eat the bodies.
The Peg Powler is clearly part of the undine category. Not only does she actually live in water (more specifically, rivers) and take her victims through the power of the water, but she also clearly has the soullessness and amorality present in many undines. While she does not have the beauty typical of the undines (and in fact takes the complete opposite approach), she does has the never-ending hunger of water itself. Water is deceptively dangerous, and so is the Peg Powler.
Faerie Two: The Rubezahl
The rubezahl is a rather mysterious faerie, described at various times as a dwarf or a giant that lives in the mountains and has some powers over the weather. He uses them to bother travelers, particularly those that have bothered him in some way, but on occasion has been known to teach medicine or give presents to a lucky few. It moves around in a large cloak and tries to avoid letting mortals see his actual face, which could explain the inability to decide what he looks like.
Placing the rubezahl in one of the elemental categories is actually something of a challenge, since he merges characteristics of two of them. He is not fiery like a salamander nor is he water-bound like the undine. However, he is sometimes a dwarf and is many different things to many different people, both gnome-like characteristics. He is also sometimes described as a giant, is capable of manipulating the weather, and abruptly changes moods, all characteristics of the sylphs. He also lives in the mountains, a characteristic of both elementals. The defining characteristic of the rubezahl, though, is that weather manipulation, which places the rubezahl in the sylph category of elementals.
Sources: http://www.ladyaleta.com/aleta/opqr.htm, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R%C3%BCbezahl, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peg_Powler
The Peg Powler is a hag-like faerie (like Jenny Greenteeth or Grindylows) that lures mortals to the water's edge, takes hold of their ankles, and drags them under to drown in her arms. Of course, not wanting to waste what nature has given her, she is generally known to eat the bodies.
The Peg Powler is clearly part of the undine category. Not only does she actually live in water (more specifically, rivers) and take her victims through the power of the water, but she also clearly has the soullessness and amorality present in many undines. While she does not have the beauty typical of the undines (and in fact takes the complete opposite approach), she does has the never-ending hunger of water itself. Water is deceptively dangerous, and so is the Peg Powler.
Faerie Two: The Rubezahl
The rubezahl is a rather mysterious faerie, described at various times as a dwarf or a giant that lives in the mountains and has some powers over the weather. He uses them to bother travelers, particularly those that have bothered him in some way, but on occasion has been known to teach medicine or give presents to a lucky few. It moves around in a large cloak and tries to avoid letting mortals see his actual face, which could explain the inability to decide what he looks like.
Placing the rubezahl in one of the elemental categories is actually something of a challenge, since he merges characteristics of two of them. He is not fiery like a salamander nor is he water-bound like the undine. However, he is sometimes a dwarf and is many different things to many different people, both gnome-like characteristics. He is also sometimes described as a giant, is capable of manipulating the weather, and abruptly changes moods, all characteristics of the sylphs. He also lives in the mountains, a characteristic of both elementals. The defining characteristic of the rubezahl, though, is that weather manipulation, which places the rubezahl in the sylph category of elementals.
Sources: http://www.ladyaleta.com/aleta/opqr.htm, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R%C3%BCbezahl, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peg_Powler
Ariella McManus
1. The Erlkonig (or Erkling) is an air fairy of Germanic origin (and the subject of one of my favorite poems, aptly entitled The Erl-King by Goethe) The name is a bastardization of the original Danish 'elverkonge' or 'Elf-King' and while there are several different depictions of this creature ranging from a seductive siren (the Elf King's daughter) to a giant-sized man who sports a golden crown and trailing garments, all of them can agree on one thing...this fairy is definitely not one of the 'nicer' varieties. It is rumored that only those about to die can see the erlkonig (as in the aforementioned poem, the boy was the only one who could see the creature; his father could not). While many of the later stories involve the carrying away of hapless children by the erlkonig to his undiscovered homeland (rumored to be Valhallah, the Nordic Land of the Dead), the earliest stories involved humans of the opposite sex as the victim, with the erlkonig seducing them and then killing them in turn (ala La Belle Dame San Merci or The Pretty Maiden Without Mercy in English literature). It can best be compared to the nix, a water sprite who lures men to their death to satisfy some need for lust or revenge. At any rate, these tales are rather suggestive in nature, while the later ones involving children are much more vague as to the reasoning of the fairy for taking them, but no less sobering.
As to why I would classify this as particular fairy as an air fairy, let us examine the similarities. According to Paracelsus' original intent, the air fairy (or sylph) are beings of spirit, invisible to those of the mortal realm, though not necessarily all of the time. This is definitely the case in Goethe's poem, as mentioned before..the mortal father could not see the creature, but the dying boy described it perfectly (as shown in the following excerpt):
"My son, why do you hide your face so anxiously?"
"Father, do you not see the Elf king?
The Elf king with crown and tail?"
"My son, it's a wisp of fog."
As is common with air fairies, the erlking in the poem was able to manipulate the elements, creating a storm of wind and rain which the unfortunate father was forced to ride through on a futile effort to save his dying son. The voice of the fairy whispering promises to the child is described as a 'rustle of leaves' or 'the wind' by the man attempting to comfort the little boy, to no avail one might add. There is even a hint of lustful longing by the erlking for the child, perhaps a throwback to the earlier legends:
"I love you, your beautiful form entices me;
And if you're not willing, then I will use force."
"My father, my father, he's grabbing me now!
Elf king has done me some harm!"
The father, of course, can see nothing save for the suffering of his child, the fairy hiding himself amidst the elements of the storm, again a manipulation of the elements common to all air fairies.
Sadly enough, in the end, the erlking has his way and the child dies, whisked away by the fairy to become a permanent plaything for its daughters..or himself, whatever the case may be:
"It horrifies the father; he swiftly rides on,
He holds the moaning child in his arms,
Reaches the farm with trouble and hardship;
In his arms, the child was dead."
2. The Masseriol are Italian earth fairies found in farms of rural Italy, though it should be noted that those who prefer the city life are called Barabaos and can be found in the streets of Venice. These particular fairies are always depicted as male in gender, dressed head-to-toe in their favorite color: red. They are rather harmless, although they fancy themselves as rather the "ladie's man" and the experience of being whisked away for an impromptu dance by one of these creatures is undoubtedly unnerving for the poor girl who finds herself in such a predicament. The girls are always returned unharmed; the fairy wishes them no ill-will; he merely wants the pleasure of their company for a time. It is rather ironic that they consider themselves so dashing (the masseriol are infamous for having a rather grandiose opinion of themselves), as they are always depicted as rather elderly. Rather on the portly side, the masseriol's laugh is booming, somewhere between the cry of the horse and the goat. The name actually means "little farmer", and they have been known to help around farms, as long as they do not have to get their hands dirty, of course. They can also be helpful in the kitchen, should the fancy strike them...and the lady of the house catches their eye. He can help tend crops, pets, and livestock, though females should be warned against trying to communicate with them (unless they wish to court the 'danger' of being taken away for a time), though any male would be safe enough in trying to befriend them.
The reasoning behind my classifying them as earth fairies should be fairly obvious..they definitely have a natural affinity for the land. Like the dwarf, they make their homes in mountainous regions, and also are depicted as short, stocky creatures of the male gender (the modern epitome of the dwarf, thanks in a large part to Gimli in Lord of the Rings).
As to why I would classify this as particular fairy as an air fairy, let us examine the similarities. According to Paracelsus' original intent, the air fairy (or sylph) are beings of spirit, invisible to those of the mortal realm, though not necessarily all of the time. This is definitely the case in Goethe's poem, as mentioned before..the mortal father could not see the creature, but the dying boy described it perfectly (as shown in the following excerpt):
"My son, why do you hide your face so anxiously?"
"Father, do you not see the Elf king?
The Elf king with crown and tail?"
"My son, it's a wisp of fog."
As is common with air fairies, the erlking in the poem was able to manipulate the elements, creating a storm of wind and rain which the unfortunate father was forced to ride through on a futile effort to save his dying son. The voice of the fairy whispering promises to the child is described as a 'rustle of leaves' or 'the wind' by the man attempting to comfort the little boy, to no avail one might add. There is even a hint of lustful longing by the erlking for the child, perhaps a throwback to the earlier legends:
"I love you, your beautiful form entices me;
And if you're not willing, then I will use force."
"My father, my father, he's grabbing me now!
Elf king has done me some harm!"
The father, of course, can see nothing save for the suffering of his child, the fairy hiding himself amidst the elements of the storm, again a manipulation of the elements common to all air fairies.
Sadly enough, in the end, the erlking has his way and the child dies, whisked away by the fairy to become a permanent plaything for its daughters..or himself, whatever the case may be:
"It horrifies the father; he swiftly rides on,
He holds the moaning child in his arms,
Reaches the farm with trouble and hardship;
In his arms, the child was dead."
2. The Masseriol are Italian earth fairies found in farms of rural Italy, though it should be noted that those who prefer the city life are called Barabaos and can be found in the streets of Venice. These particular fairies are always depicted as male in gender, dressed head-to-toe in their favorite color: red. They are rather harmless, although they fancy themselves as rather the "ladie's man" and the experience of being whisked away for an impromptu dance by one of these creatures is undoubtedly unnerving for the poor girl who finds herself in such a predicament. The girls are always returned unharmed; the fairy wishes them no ill-will; he merely wants the pleasure of their company for a time. It is rather ironic that they consider themselves so dashing (the masseriol are infamous for having a rather grandiose opinion of themselves), as they are always depicted as rather elderly. Rather on the portly side, the masseriol's laugh is booming, somewhere between the cry of the horse and the goat. The name actually means "little farmer", and they have been known to help around farms, as long as they do not have to get their hands dirty, of course. They can also be helpful in the kitchen, should the fancy strike them...and the lady of the house catches their eye. He can help tend crops, pets, and livestock, though females should be warned against trying to communicate with them (unless they wish to court the 'danger' of being taken away for a time), though any male would be safe enough in trying to befriend them.
The reasoning behind my classifying them as earth fairies should be fairly obvious..they definitely have a natural affinity for the land. Like the dwarf, they make their homes in mountainous regions, and also are depicted as short, stocky creatures of the male gender (the modern epitome of the dwarf, thanks in a large part to Gimli in Lord of the Rings).
Darcey Cumberland
Faerie 1: Pixie - gnome
I would classify the Pixie as a gnome, because, most pixies bear some resemblance to earth like creatures, such as insects. I believe they would do a good job in using their powers and magic to look after and care for the earth. They would understand the responsibility because they are part of it.
As the earth is such a vast place, it helps that there are many variations of Pixie that inhabit all sorts of different locations, and so; in turn would be able to care for each part of the arth respectively.
Although they do not generally display signs of physical strength, the power that is contained within their tiny beings is still powerful and useful. They still constitute as a gnome because they are small, beautiful, good and gentle.
As they can be many different things to many different people I think it is an acceptable classification that the Pixie would be classified as a gnome as opposed to a sylph or undine.
Faerie 2: Phooka - sylph
I would classify the Phooka as a sylph because it has the ability to shape shift between forms and can slip through these changing forms like the wind. As sylphs are primarily associated as being air spirits, I think the Phooka would fit well into this category.
Some Phookas are said to many known animal forms - such as dogs and birds. They can be considered as evil menaces who cause trouble for people and it is the inclination of the other faerie people to keep out of the way of the Phooka.
Although the Phooka is rumoured to be a somewhat mischievous creature, it does not fit with the other categories of elementals, like the gnome for example.
With a sylph being a difficult concept to define this spirit has the power to become invisible through changing forms. I think it fits best within the sylph category.
I would classify the Pixie as a gnome, because, most pixies bear some resemblance to earth like creatures, such as insects. I believe they would do a good job in using their powers and magic to look after and care for the earth. They would understand the responsibility because they are part of it.
As the earth is such a vast place, it helps that there are many variations of Pixie that inhabit all sorts of different locations, and so; in turn would be able to care for each part of the arth respectively.
Although they do not generally display signs of physical strength, the power that is contained within their tiny beings is still powerful and useful. They still constitute as a gnome because they are small, beautiful, good and gentle.
As they can be many different things to many different people I think it is an acceptable classification that the Pixie would be classified as a gnome as opposed to a sylph or undine.
Faerie 2: Phooka - sylph
I would classify the Phooka as a sylph because it has the ability to shape shift between forms and can slip through these changing forms like the wind. As sylphs are primarily associated as being air spirits, I think the Phooka would fit well into this category.
Some Phookas are said to many known animal forms - such as dogs and birds. They can be considered as evil menaces who cause trouble for people and it is the inclination of the other faerie people to keep out of the way of the Phooka.
Although the Phooka is rumoured to be a somewhat mischievous creature, it does not fit with the other categories of elementals, like the gnome for example.
With a sylph being a difficult concept to define this spirit has the power to become invisible through changing forms. I think it fits best within the sylph category.
February Fortescue
Djinn
The Genie in the bottle :D
Djinn are more commonly known as “genies” in English. Like many of the fae folk, they were given free will and refused to bow before Allah and were cast out. They are usually invisible to humans, have the ability to travel large distances at very fast speeds. And often live in remote areas. Djinn can appear as snakes, dogs, dragons, and sometimes even as humans. Most of them are hostle, although some can be very friendly. Some humans, especially magicians, can often gain power over them and use them to perform magic and magical feats.
Magicians have trapped Djinn in lots of different ways, with one common way being to imprison them in an old brass lamp. If someone finds such a lamp and rubs it three times, the trapped Djinn will appear and grant three wishes. Djinn can also be very unpredictable, and they seem to take great pleasure in harming those whom they have believed to have wronged them.
I think they fall under the Salamander / fire elemental group because according to Islamic tradition they were created from smokeless fire by Allah / God, and when I think of a genie coming out of the bottle, I think of trapped fire and smoke.
Shellycoat
Shellycoats are wee little Scottish fae folk which are covered or “coated” in shells (where I think the name comes from) and these shells rattle when they move. They look like fish with bih mouths and eyes and see very well at night. They like to bob near the surface of water, with only their huge eyes showing.
These creatures are usually harmless but they do enjoy playing pranks. They seem to enjoy misleading people and getting them lost and off their path. They also imitate the cries of a drowning person, and when someone goes to investigate, the shellycoat will laugh and disappear into the water.
Because they wear shells and are associated with water, I see them as water elementals / Undine.
The Genie in the bottle :D
Djinn are more commonly known as “genies” in English. Like many of the fae folk, they were given free will and refused to bow before Allah and were cast out. They are usually invisible to humans, have the ability to travel large distances at very fast speeds. And often live in remote areas. Djinn can appear as snakes, dogs, dragons, and sometimes even as humans. Most of them are hostle, although some can be very friendly. Some humans, especially magicians, can often gain power over them and use them to perform magic and magical feats.
Magicians have trapped Djinn in lots of different ways, with one common way being to imprison them in an old brass lamp. If someone finds such a lamp and rubs it three times, the trapped Djinn will appear and grant three wishes. Djinn can also be very unpredictable, and they seem to take great pleasure in harming those whom they have believed to have wronged them.
I think they fall under the Salamander / fire elemental group because according to Islamic tradition they were created from smokeless fire by Allah / God, and when I think of a genie coming out of the bottle, I think of trapped fire and smoke.
Shellycoat
Shellycoats are wee little Scottish fae folk which are covered or “coated” in shells (where I think the name comes from) and these shells rattle when they move. They look like fish with bih mouths and eyes and see very well at night. They like to bob near the surface of water, with only their huge eyes showing.
These creatures are usually harmless but they do enjoy playing pranks. They seem to enjoy misleading people and getting them lost and off their path. They also imitate the cries of a drowning person, and when someone goes to investigate, the shellycoat will laugh and disappear into the water.
Because they wear shells and are associated with water, I see them as water elementals / Undine.
Hailey Potter
Another type of undine is a banshee (also called beansidhe, which translates to the “woman fairy” in Irish). However, the Scottish calls the banshee by a different name, Cointeach, which means “one who keens.” Basically she is well-known across the British Isles. The banshee is known to be extremely beautiful with long, flowing hair and a light complexion, but she has red eyes from crying so often. She wears a green dress and gray cloak. If one hears a banshee’s wail, it means that death is near but she never causes the death! She might also be found on the banks of streams as a washerwoman, where she gets the name Bean Nighe. The clothing she washes differs on the story. It could be a burial piece or bloodstained from the people soon to die. One of the legends paints banshees as female ghosts who died in childbirth doomed to wash until the day they should have died. The banshee is even involved in a story with King James I of Scotland, who was approached by a seer that was identified later as a banshee foretelling his murder.
Another type of sylph faery is a trow. Now this is an interesting creature. It comes from the northern Scottish islands. It is scared of sunlight and is similar to a troll, but do not turn into stone. They are frozen in place until dawn and then once the sun has set they can return to their homes. (Which are quite usefully underground.) These types of creatures are known to kidnap babies from their cribs but are quite mischievous, leaving changelings where the child would lie. They are also known to take fiddlers so that they can play for their revels. These faeries look odd; they are round and do not own legs. They move by bouncing around! Often one can find old Scottish folk songs with trows as its subject.
Another type of sylph faery is a trow. Now this is an interesting creature. It comes from the northern Scottish islands. It is scared of sunlight and is similar to a troll, but do not turn into stone. They are frozen in place until dawn and then once the sun has set they can return to their homes. (Which are quite usefully underground.) These types of creatures are known to kidnap babies from their cribs but are quite mischievous, leaving changelings where the child would lie. They are also known to take fiddlers so that they can play for their revels. These faeries look odd; they are round and do not own legs. They move by bouncing around! Often one can find old Scottish folk songs with trows as its subject.
Isabelle Rhodesse
The Sidhe
The Sidhe are actually a few different fae all called by the same root name, or rather, they are all slightly related. These fae are some of the most likely to take human lovers and therefore create a large number of part-fae with their unions. Often times, they act as muses for their lovers, bestowing creativity and inspiration upon them. All too often, however, this comes at a price and the human is driven mad or dies early.
I believe this fae would be placed in the Gnome category for a few reasons. First, because the etmology of the word Sidhe. This is typically the name of a type of earthen mound typically used for burials. Secondly, I have read accounts of another type (or perhaps the same type but taking a different shape when not around humans) of Sidhe described as willowy and tree-like. These characteristics, in addition to being linked to humans (who also have a bit of an earthy quality about them), make them a good bet for a Gnome elemental.
Fomorian
The Fomorian, like many of the Fae, and in fact, the Fae themselves have many different names. They were first known as the Fomoire or Fomoiri but the name changed over the years. Their appearance is typically agreed upon as one-legged, one-armed, one-eyed monstrosities. Some accounts also record Fomorians with goat heads.
In Irish mythology, the race of the Fomorians predates human inhabitants as there are many tales of people coming to Ireland only to find it filled with these beings.
The Fomorians, though a being that inhabits the land, is very heavily linked with water and the sea in all the tales. Many a tale tells of a fearsome host of people attacking via the sea. Additionally, the aforementioned tales about Fomorians discovered in Ireland, the voyagers typically come to Ireland after an enormous flood, and so are surprised to find anything alive there. This implies the Fomorians are connected with the water. Therefore there is a very strong case for this fae being an Undine being.
There are also tales of a particular Fomorian, Balor, the king of the Fomorians. His single eye, if opened caused drought and famine. This suggests a connection with the land, however since drought is an absence of water, there can also be a case made that this still supports the Undine claim.
The Sidhe are actually a few different fae all called by the same root name, or rather, they are all slightly related. These fae are some of the most likely to take human lovers and therefore create a large number of part-fae with their unions. Often times, they act as muses for their lovers, bestowing creativity and inspiration upon them. All too often, however, this comes at a price and the human is driven mad or dies early.
I believe this fae would be placed in the Gnome category for a few reasons. First, because the etmology of the word Sidhe. This is typically the name of a type of earthen mound typically used for burials. Secondly, I have read accounts of another type (or perhaps the same type but taking a different shape when not around humans) of Sidhe described as willowy and tree-like. These characteristics, in addition to being linked to humans (who also have a bit of an earthy quality about them), make them a good bet for a Gnome elemental.
Fomorian
The Fomorian, like many of the Fae, and in fact, the Fae themselves have many different names. They were first known as the Fomoire or Fomoiri but the name changed over the years. Their appearance is typically agreed upon as one-legged, one-armed, one-eyed monstrosities. Some accounts also record Fomorians with goat heads.
In Irish mythology, the race of the Fomorians predates human inhabitants as there are many tales of people coming to Ireland only to find it filled with these beings.
The Fomorians, though a being that inhabits the land, is very heavily linked with water and the sea in all the tales. Many a tale tells of a fearsome host of people attacking via the sea. Additionally, the aforementioned tales about Fomorians discovered in Ireland, the voyagers typically come to Ireland after an enormous flood, and so are surprised to find anything alive there. This implies the Fomorians are connected with the water. Therefore there is a very strong case for this fae being an Undine being.
There are also tales of a particular Fomorian, Balor, the king of the Fomorians. His single eye, if opened caused drought and famine. This suggests a connection with the land, however since drought is an absence of water, there can also be a case made that this still supports the Undine claim.
Jenna Hathaway
Kappa is one of my 'favorite' fey creature. I put that in quotations because I don't actually love the creature or anything. It's a creepy thing! But I'll never forget my first encounter with a Kappa... in the Harvest Moon game. Apparently, they liked cucumbers... so I had to give those as offering at one point. It was one of my most memorable moments in the game. But anyway! Kappa is a Japanese fey. His name means "river-child". They are a water sprite, so naturally they belong in the Water/Undine group.
This creature dwells in ponds and rivers, and looks a bit humanoid, roughly the size of a child. They are usually mischievous and their pranks can range from mildly annoying to dangerous, such as drowning people and animals. They have reptile-like skin, complete with scales in the colors of green (or yellow, or blue). They also have webbed hands and feet like ducks, able to swim like a fish, and even smell like them.
There's a cup-like indentation on top of their head; a place to hold water which is the source of their power. It must be full with water if a Kappa leaves their pond, if the water spills the Kappa will be immobilized. Kappas are strangely polite, though, so a good trick to disable them is by bowing to them; they will no doubt return the gesture and will cause the water on their head to spill. Silly creatures!
The Jinn (better known as genies in the Western countries) is a magical creature from Arabian folklore, the likes of 1001 Nights and Aladdin and his magic lamp. They are believed to occupy a parallel world to humans, and they are made of flames or scorching fire. Because they are literally a fire being, I would group them in the Fire/Salamandergroup. Although most Jinn are portrayed as male, there are actually female Jinn as well. They are usually pictured as wearing vests or sashes, and most often with long hair tied back as well as no facial hair (they're not blue, though, that's just Disney). They can either exist on their own or be tied to an object, such as Aladdin's lamp.
This creature dwells in ponds and rivers, and looks a bit humanoid, roughly the size of a child. They are usually mischievous and their pranks can range from mildly annoying to dangerous, such as drowning people and animals. They have reptile-like skin, complete with scales in the colors of green (or yellow, or blue). They also have webbed hands and feet like ducks, able to swim like a fish, and even smell like them.
There's a cup-like indentation on top of their head; a place to hold water which is the source of their power. It must be full with water if a Kappa leaves their pond, if the water spills the Kappa will be immobilized. Kappas are strangely polite, though, so a good trick to disable them is by bowing to them; they will no doubt return the gesture and will cause the water on their head to spill. Silly creatures!
The Jinn (better known as genies in the Western countries) is a magical creature from Arabian folklore, the likes of 1001 Nights and Aladdin and his magic lamp. They are believed to occupy a parallel world to humans, and they are made of flames or scorching fire. Because they are literally a fire being, I would group them in the Fire/Salamandergroup. Although most Jinn are portrayed as male, there are actually female Jinn as well. They are usually pictured as wearing vests or sashes, and most often with long hair tied back as well as no facial hair (they're not blue, though, that's just Disney). They can either exist on their own or be tied to an object, such as Aladdin's lamp.
Jinxy Jo
Kitsune
Kitsune, I feel are creatures that may belong to the Fire group as they are similar to Salamanders in terms of certain features such as their body shape. Although Salamanders are typically seen as being lizard-like creatures, the Kitsune are said to be fox like creatures. The similarities are drawn however from their body shape. Kitsune are very magical fire creatures as they possess many unique qualities. Their most advantageous is their ability to change into human form, which many other creatures cannot do. They are said to be intelligent creatures because of this and their powers and abilities increase with age. As the Kitsune have features that are fox-like, folklore tales also establish them as being very devious and sly and have the ability to trick people (something common within children’s tales featuring foxes). Of course, many other stories would have you believe that these creatures are fierce loyal protectors but it depends what story you read. The most interesting thing about this creature however, is that it’s commonly linked to Buddhism and there are actual statues of these creatures around the world!
Merrow
Merrow are water creatures and are similar to the Undine as they are seen as being the Scottish and Irish equivalent to merfolk. Like merfolk, merrow are human from the waist up and fish from the waist down. They are said to be mischievous creatures that are affectionate and kind. Merrow, in folklore, were often said to have been attached to human beings and there are many stories about marriages between these two species. Although there were many stories about Merrow living on the ground between living people for many years, most would end up back at sea. Female merrow are often said to be like Sirens, as they have the ability to lure men down to the sea. Some folklore also say that these creatures living on the sea but cannot live underneath it without the use of a special cap and if this is lost they have no other way of diving or swimming underneath. In Scottish folklore, many believe that there merrow-maidens are around 195ft long and as white as a swan, however these stories date way back to the Anno Domini era.
Kitsune, I feel are creatures that may belong to the Fire group as they are similar to Salamanders in terms of certain features such as their body shape. Although Salamanders are typically seen as being lizard-like creatures, the Kitsune are said to be fox like creatures. The similarities are drawn however from their body shape. Kitsune are very magical fire creatures as they possess many unique qualities. Their most advantageous is their ability to change into human form, which many other creatures cannot do. They are said to be intelligent creatures because of this and their powers and abilities increase with age. As the Kitsune have features that are fox-like, folklore tales also establish them as being very devious and sly and have the ability to trick people (something common within children’s tales featuring foxes). Of course, many other stories would have you believe that these creatures are fierce loyal protectors but it depends what story you read. The most interesting thing about this creature however, is that it’s commonly linked to Buddhism and there are actual statues of these creatures around the world!
Merrow
Merrow are water creatures and are similar to the Undine as they are seen as being the Scottish and Irish equivalent to merfolk. Like merfolk, merrow are human from the waist up and fish from the waist down. They are said to be mischievous creatures that are affectionate and kind. Merrow, in folklore, were often said to have been attached to human beings and there are many stories about marriages between these two species. Although there were many stories about Merrow living on the ground between living people for many years, most would end up back at sea. Female merrow are often said to be like Sirens, as they have the ability to lure men down to the sea. Some folklore also say that these creatures living on the sea but cannot live underneath it without the use of a special cap and if this is lost they have no other way of diving or swimming underneath. In Scottish folklore, many believe that there merrow-maidens are around 195ft long and as white as a swan, however these stories date way back to the Anno Domini era.
Kynthia Near
Imps
Imps favour high places and are often found sitting on trees or their master's shoulder. That along with the fact that they prefer gliding over walking classifies them in the Sylph(Air) category. Small, winged, with scaled bodies -usually in dark shades of red, blue and green- the imp is a highly intelligent creature that mages can summon or in rare cases find in the wilderness and tame. They serve as familiars and can be trained to perform complicated tasks. Imps do not have mouths. Instead they communicate with their tales or hands. They also use their tales when needed to defend themselves. What's more they do not require physical food but feed off willpower and auras (Car'all). Because of that imps prefer to be around more powerfull wizards whose magical abilities serve as a better food source and avoid non-magical people. Although they are quiet loyal and usually remain with their masters until one of them passes away, imps sometimes abandon their current mage in search of someone more powerfull or in some cases because of being mistreated. Their lifespan is fairly large, the oldest documented imp lived 405 years.
Kappas
Kappas or Kawako or Kawataro are of Japanese origin and as their name -which means "river child" in English- indicates are classified in the Undine(Water) category. Kappas are water dieties and can be found in places such as rivers, lakes, springs and even wells. Over the years they have been depicted as fish, eels, turtles and even dragons and snakes. Generally however, a Kappa's appearance is thought to be like a hairy, amphibious creature with gills and membrane in its hands and feet (and sometimes a turtle shell on its back), that can walk upright as easily as it can swim. Kappas have magic abilities that are either used for good or bad purposes, but the Kappa itself is considered to be evil, mainly because of its flesh-eating diet habits. If captured, a Kappa will help with farmwork and can teach its capturer to set bones or make salves and medicines. They have a weakness for cucumbers and "blush" "blush" women's buttocks.
Imps favour high places and are often found sitting on trees or their master's shoulder. That along with the fact that they prefer gliding over walking classifies them in the Sylph(Air) category. Small, winged, with scaled bodies -usually in dark shades of red, blue and green- the imp is a highly intelligent creature that mages can summon or in rare cases find in the wilderness and tame. They serve as familiars and can be trained to perform complicated tasks. Imps do not have mouths. Instead they communicate with their tales or hands. They also use their tales when needed to defend themselves. What's more they do not require physical food but feed off willpower and auras (Car'all). Because of that imps prefer to be around more powerfull wizards whose magical abilities serve as a better food source and avoid non-magical people. Although they are quiet loyal and usually remain with their masters until one of them passes away, imps sometimes abandon their current mage in search of someone more powerfull or in some cases because of being mistreated. Their lifespan is fairly large, the oldest documented imp lived 405 years.
Kappas
Kappas or Kawako or Kawataro are of Japanese origin and as their name -which means "river child" in English- indicates are classified in the Undine(Water) category. Kappas are water dieties and can be found in places such as rivers, lakes, springs and even wells. Over the years they have been depicted as fish, eels, turtles and even dragons and snakes. Generally however, a Kappa's appearance is thought to be like a hairy, amphibious creature with gills and membrane in its hands and feet (and sometimes a turtle shell on its back), that can walk upright as easily as it can swim. Kappas have magic abilities that are either used for good or bad purposes, but the Kappa itself is considered to be evil, mainly because of its flesh-eating diet habits. If captured, a Kappa will help with farmwork and can teach its capturer to set bones or make salves and medicines. They have a weakness for cucumbers and "blush" "blush" women's buttocks.
Lavinia Rookwood
Dryads- I would classify dryads as earth fairies. They are Greek female nature spirits who are dedicated to protecting a particular groves and forests. Each dryad is linked at birth with a particular tree which is their life force. If the tree should die, so would the dryad. And woe to the mortal who caused the death of the tree. The gods themselves would punish the mortal. If the mortal is only partially hapless, and injures the tree, then he faces the wrath of the dryad herself. But generally, they are beautiful and carefree maidens, who frolic about their woods and lived peacefully. While they do befriend the animals in their woods, they are often shy. Their closest ally amongst the Greek gods is Artemis, who is the first to respond to their aid.
While they are more peaceful then most earth fairies (and perhaps all fairies), I feel that the connection to a very earthy element more then cements their right to belong. They are protectors of the woods and the animals who live in there, and would fight to protect them, although they preferred to live peacefully. An offering to the base of their tree would be usually enough to garner the right to use a tree however, and the dryad would be very willing to part with it. It was even better if one let them frolic and live in the woods in peace, and not disturb them.
http://www.pantheon.org/articles/d/dryads.html
http://www.dryads.net/
Ashrays- Ashrays are incredibly shy little creatures who can only come at night. They are said to be beautiful (both male and female) and young, never seeming any older or younger then 20 years old. But if anyone should think themselves so lucky as to catch one would best be wary of the dawn. If they are in sunlight, they will melt into a rainbow color pool of water and cease to exist. Also, unlike some other types, they cannot come on land, but instead stay in the water, sneaking beneath during daylight hours.They are a peaceful type which is unlike most in the Undine catergory, but they are still water fairies, as they are very literally turned into water at the misfortune of sunlight touching them. They are also as beautiful as any other Undine, and capable of enchanting humans, who would try to capture them. And this is why I would classify them as water fairies. they are also known as sea ghosts and used to be commonly seen off the coasts of Scotland.
http://www.lenntech.com/water-mythology.htm
http://www.bellaterreno.com/art/scottish/scottishashray.aspx
http://sunsparrow.tripod.com/fairy-ashray.html
While they are more peaceful then most earth fairies (and perhaps all fairies), I feel that the connection to a very earthy element more then cements their right to belong. They are protectors of the woods and the animals who live in there, and would fight to protect them, although they preferred to live peacefully. An offering to the base of their tree would be usually enough to garner the right to use a tree however, and the dryad would be very willing to part with it. It was even better if one let them frolic and live in the woods in peace, and not disturb them.
http://www.pantheon.org/articles/d/dryads.html
http://www.dryads.net/
Ashrays- Ashrays are incredibly shy little creatures who can only come at night. They are said to be beautiful (both male and female) and young, never seeming any older or younger then 20 years old. But if anyone should think themselves so lucky as to catch one would best be wary of the dawn. If they are in sunlight, they will melt into a rainbow color pool of water and cease to exist. Also, unlike some other types, they cannot come on land, but instead stay in the water, sneaking beneath during daylight hours.They are a peaceful type which is unlike most in the Undine catergory, but they are still water fairies, as they are very literally turned into water at the misfortune of sunlight touching them. They are also as beautiful as any other Undine, and capable of enchanting humans, who would try to capture them. And this is why I would classify them as water fairies. they are also known as sea ghosts and used to be commonly seen off the coasts of Scotland.
http://www.lenntech.com/water-mythology.htm
http://www.bellaterreno.com/art/scottish/scottishashray.aspx
http://sunsparrow.tripod.com/fairy-ashray.html
Medea de Troja
Since most of the fae i’ve encountered in the lesson are similar to Harry Potter creatures studied in Care of Magical Creatures, I’ve decided to use 2 animals straight from the series: theBowtruckle and the Grindylow.
The Bowtruckle is a hand-sized creature which is immensely difficult to spot due to its clever camouflage. The general look of the Bowtruckle is that of a twig or stick from a certain tree. They are small fey that are guardians of wand wood trees, insect eating with eyes of brown and twiggy fingers. These fingers are adapted to easily remove wood lice from the tree they dwell in and protect. Also a very capable defence mechanism, these twiggy and sharp fingers are perfect for protecting the little creature’s tree (especially when said twig is coming straight for your eye!) The Bowtruckle is a generally peaceful creature but will only become violent when their tree or they are threatened. If one wishes to peacefully remove leaves and such from a Bowtruckle’s tree, you need to give them a peace offering of wood lice or fairy eggs.
I would classify a Bowtruckle as an earth elemental due to its close tie to trees. Trees being plants that grow in the earth, it would be a most fitting classification.
The Grindylow is very much the opposite of the Bowtruckle. J.K. Rowling describes it as “A sickly green creature with sharp little horns had its face pressed against the glass, pulling faces and flexing its long, spindly fingers.”
In essence, the Grindylow is a small and horned little water demon! Their behaviour is purely aggressive to any who come in their path, be it Muggle, witch or wizard alike. The only beings able to tame the Grindylow are the Merpeople, who keep these water demons as pets. The diet of the Grindylow ranges from small fish, algae, seaweed and small sea creatures but they have been known to occasionally feast on humans. Their common habitat are weed beds of lakes in Great Britain and Ireland. To describe a Grindylow, one can simply say they are sickly green in colour with green pointed teeth and small horns on their heads. They have long, strong fingers that are extremely brittle, thus making them easy to defeat if one targets their fingers before they get a firm grip on your throat! They are all, naturally, very good swimmers.
I would classify the Grindylow as a water elemental due to the simple fact that it is a water demon, that thrives in the water.
Picuture courtesy thanks to: http://greenfire.tripod.com/
The Bowtruckle is a hand-sized creature which is immensely difficult to spot due to its clever camouflage. The general look of the Bowtruckle is that of a twig or stick from a certain tree. They are small fey that are guardians of wand wood trees, insect eating with eyes of brown and twiggy fingers. These fingers are adapted to easily remove wood lice from the tree they dwell in and protect. Also a very capable defence mechanism, these twiggy and sharp fingers are perfect for protecting the little creature’s tree (especially when said twig is coming straight for your eye!) The Bowtruckle is a generally peaceful creature but will only become violent when their tree or they are threatened. If one wishes to peacefully remove leaves and such from a Bowtruckle’s tree, you need to give them a peace offering of wood lice or fairy eggs.
I would classify a Bowtruckle as an earth elemental due to its close tie to trees. Trees being plants that grow in the earth, it would be a most fitting classification.
The Grindylow is very much the opposite of the Bowtruckle. J.K. Rowling describes it as “A sickly green creature with sharp little horns had its face pressed against the glass, pulling faces and flexing its long, spindly fingers.”
In essence, the Grindylow is a small and horned little water demon! Their behaviour is purely aggressive to any who come in their path, be it Muggle, witch or wizard alike. The only beings able to tame the Grindylow are the Merpeople, who keep these water demons as pets. The diet of the Grindylow ranges from small fish, algae, seaweed and small sea creatures but they have been known to occasionally feast on humans. Their common habitat are weed beds of lakes in Great Britain and Ireland. To describe a Grindylow, one can simply say they are sickly green in colour with green pointed teeth and small horns on their heads. They have long, strong fingers that are extremely brittle, thus making them easy to defeat if one targets their fingers before they get a firm grip on your throat! They are all, naturally, very good swimmers.
I would classify the Grindylow as a water elemental due to the simple fact that it is a water demon, that thrives in the water.
Picuture courtesy thanks to: http://greenfire.tripod.com/
Scarlett Lacarnum
The Djinn faery has many names throughout many cultures. These faeries are fire elementals as they are said to have fire in their veins. A djinn tends to live in hearths or near fire. Djinns can be classified with salamanders because they are created from fire and are composed of fire with no smoke. Arabic legends describe djinns as having a genie-like appearance: wispy bottom, muscular torso and a long ponytail. Other legends describe djinns original form as invisible. These creatures have several powers. Most notably, they are adept shape-shifters. When they are in a shifted form the djinn is vulnerable because they can be harmed in the same manner the creature they are representing can be hurt. Magickal folk are able to gain control over a djinn but this control is not absolute due to the faery’s unpredictable natures. Djinns can be both friendly and hostile. They are particularly hostile when one backs out on or breaks a promise.
The harpy is an air elemental, considered as such due to their association with winds and storms. Harpies love to conjure stormy skies. They belong with sylphs for several reasons: harpies are half-bird, can fly and can even control the winds. The upper half of a harpy is female in appearance and their lower body is in bird form. Some depictions list harpies as beautiful young maidens with wings while others describe them as old winged monsters with ugly faces. Harpies are sisters to sirens and they both share a dislike of male humans. Harpies are known to snatch away men but will shower a female human with all she desires. Harpies tend to live an extravagant life and will expect nothing less from anyone who dares to capture them. Harpies are arrogant by nature of their upbringing and are quick to show their displeasure when they are not satisfied. Legends tell of harpies that whisk away wrongdoers to Hades for punishment. Those snatched are never seen again.
The harpy is an air elemental, considered as such due to their association with winds and storms. Harpies love to conjure stormy skies. They belong with sylphs for several reasons: harpies are half-bird, can fly and can even control the winds. The upper half of a harpy is female in appearance and their lower body is in bird form. Some depictions list harpies as beautiful young maidens with wings while others describe them as old winged monsters with ugly faces. Harpies are sisters to sirens and they both share a dislike of male humans. Harpies are known to snatch away men but will shower a female human with all she desires. Harpies tend to live an extravagant life and will expect nothing less from anyone who dares to capture them. Harpies are arrogant by nature of their upbringing and are quick to show their displeasure when they are not satisfied. Legends tell of harpies that whisk away wrongdoers to Hades for punishment. Those snatched are never seen again.
Silmarien Szilagyi
The berehynia is a female water spirit, similar to the rusalka, from Slavic mythology. They're classified in the Undine (Water) element. They are commonly ghost-like, ill-tempered, and malevolent, and are often found in fresh water. Like the rusalka, the berehynia likes to drag its victims from the banks, especially in the dark. It's an equal opportunity murderess, killing both young men and women alike. So if you thought you'd be spared because you're a woman, you've a nasty surprise awaiting.
Recently, the berehynia's reputation took a turn for the better. The Ukrainians dubbed them goddesses who protected house and hearth; the berehynia, in this definition, sort of resembles Hestia, Greek goddess of the hearth. Improving the repuation of the berehynia was done in an effort by Ukrainian writers to personify their ideal woman. Sounds a tad outdated, though, doesn't it? Especially considering this transformation occurred in the 20th century. Ukrainian men wanted a domesticated fae woman. Somehow I doubt they're the only ones. >>
The berehynia is also a symbol in Ukrainian nationalism, and there's even a monument dedicated to the water spirit. She stands atop the monument, protecting Kiev, ironically (or not so ironically) in the same place Lenin's statue used to stand.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berehynia
The samodiva are Bulgarian (Southern Slavic) fairies belonging to the Undine (Water) element. They are termed woodland fairies but are mistresses of the waters, which is why I placed them in the Undine element, though based on their appearance and attire, they could fit Gnome (Earth), too.
As with many other Slavic fae, samodivas are ethereally lovely, with long hair and sometimes wings. They don't wear the typical fair garb, preferring a shirt or gown, sleeveless jacket, and a green belt, all adorned with feathers.
They can control the waters, even going to far as to cause a drought, which to be honest, to me sounds more like Sylphly behavior. But they aren't malevolent toward humans, unlike the berehynia. Samodivas love to dance, and will do so from midnight to dawn. That's all well and good, except that mortals, especially travelers, tend to be drawn to the dance and will often join. And then they'll die of exhaustion in the morning, because humans were not meant to dance nonstop for 6 hours. This affinity for the night has led some to believe that the samodiva are negative creatures, but they are actually neutral to humans for the most part. It's not their fault a traveler decided to dance with them. They didn't intentionally seduce him.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samodiva
Recently, the berehynia's reputation took a turn for the better. The Ukrainians dubbed them goddesses who protected house and hearth; the berehynia, in this definition, sort of resembles Hestia, Greek goddess of the hearth. Improving the repuation of the berehynia was done in an effort by Ukrainian writers to personify their ideal woman. Sounds a tad outdated, though, doesn't it? Especially considering this transformation occurred in the 20th century. Ukrainian men wanted a domesticated fae woman. Somehow I doubt they're the only ones. >>
The berehynia is also a symbol in Ukrainian nationalism, and there's even a monument dedicated to the water spirit. She stands atop the monument, protecting Kiev, ironically (or not so ironically) in the same place Lenin's statue used to stand.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berehynia
The samodiva are Bulgarian (Southern Slavic) fairies belonging to the Undine (Water) element. They are termed woodland fairies but are mistresses of the waters, which is why I placed them in the Undine element, though based on their appearance and attire, they could fit Gnome (Earth), too.
As with many other Slavic fae, samodivas are ethereally lovely, with long hair and sometimes wings. They don't wear the typical fair garb, preferring a shirt or gown, sleeveless jacket, and a green belt, all adorned with feathers.
They can control the waters, even going to far as to cause a drought, which to be honest, to me sounds more like Sylphly behavior. But they aren't malevolent toward humans, unlike the berehynia. Samodivas love to dance, and will do so from midnight to dawn. That's all well and good, except that mortals, especially travelers, tend to be drawn to the dance and will often join. And then they'll die of exhaustion in the morning, because humans were not meant to dance nonstop for 6 hours. This affinity for the night has led some to believe that the samodiva are negative creatures, but they are actually neutral to humans for the most part. It's not their fault a traveler decided to dance with them. They didn't intentionally seduce him.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samodiva
Sky Alton
The coblynau belong to the gnome as they are creatures very much associated with the earth. They are Welsh mining spirits and are said to inhabit mines and caves all over the place. They are a counterpart to the Cornish Knockers and are said to aid miners by knocking to alert them to particularly rich patches of ore or metals. If that doesn't make them spirits of the earth and a good example of gnome kind, I'm not sure what would. They are not exactly pleasant to look at as each source describes them as hideous but they are at least identifyable and appropriately atired as they all wear miners outfits. They are small, only about 18 inches high, though despite this they are hard workers, mining continuously. Unfortunately for them, and possibly for anyone trying to get rid of them, their work is doomed never to be completed. This would tend to make anyone a little cranky and while usually good tempered, the Coblynau has been known to cause rock slides.
Gwragedd Annwn
They are Welsh spirits and would probably be best sorted in to the Nymph category. They are commonly known as water spirits who inhabit lakes in Wales. However, sorting them could be seen as difficult as their cities are actually rumoured to be sunk in to the ground below lakes; this could also mean they could be considered earth spirits as well. As there is limited mention of any existence outside of the lake in the sources I've found though, I'll stick with the catigorisation of water spirits. I found little about their physical description but apparently they are universally lovely and quite benevolent, though
they do like to take mortals as their life partners (at least they don't seem to have the drowning fetish of other water dwelling fae).
Gwragedd Annwn
They are Welsh spirits and would probably be best sorted in to the Nymph category. They are commonly known as water spirits who inhabit lakes in Wales. However, sorting them could be seen as difficult as their cities are actually rumoured to be sunk in to the ground below lakes; this could also mean they could be considered earth spirits as well. As there is limited mention of any existence outside of the lake in the sources I've found though, I'll stick with the catigorisation of water spirits. I found little about their physical description but apparently they are universally lovely and quite benevolent, though
they do like to take mortals as their life partners (at least they don't seem to have the drowning fetish of other water dwelling fae).
St.John Aloisius Sloots
Peg Powler: Undine
Now Peg is a seriously pissed off female undine. She, Jenny Greenteeth and Nelly Long-Arms are sort of a triune of watery goblin evil and could give each other a run for the money. She is from the English fairy tradition and is identified variously as demon, nursery bogie and goddess, but always in relation to the river Tees in the northwest of England. She is a water dweller with, “…long green tresses…” and as malignant as they come, drowning dogs, cats, naughty children and anyone else she can lure to the rivers edge for spiteful pleasure. There are some beautiful waterfalls along the Tees, the distinctive foam of which has been named “Peg Powler’s suds” (sounds like a great name for a beer) and froth “Peg Powler’s cream.
Yallery Brown: Gnome
Another naughty boy is this likely lad from the English tradition. Found under a rock by a kind hearted farm hand Tom Tiver and released. Yallery, though a villain and a prankster, was grateful for the rescue and offered to reward the young man with “…a fine wife or a pot of gold…” Unwisely the farm hand turned him down claiming what he really needed was help about the farm. Yallery gave him a dirty look but agreed nonetheless on the condition that Tom never thank him for his work. Tom agreed.
The next day Tom found all the farm work done: the plowing, the digging, the cultivating—predominantly earth work. Tom was most pleased until the other ranch hands complained that he had nothing to do or that their work, which had been done, was undone and destroyed. They, of course, blamed Tom and he was eventually given the boot off the farm. Tom had been given a charm to summon the goblin and upon doing so complained that Yallery had done him no favors by messing up the work of the others or doing his work.
“I’ll thank you,” he said, “to go away and leave me to work for myself!”
Yallery thought it a hoot that Tom hand thanked him and inadvertently released him. He then informed Tom that for doing what Yallery had warned him not to, namely thank him, Tom would now learn what it meant to get no more help from Yallery. From that time on, no matter what Tom set his hand to, it came to no good and ill-fortune (Yallery) followed the young man wherever he went until the day of his death.
Now what’s what I call rotten to the earth's core
Now Peg is a seriously pissed off female undine. She, Jenny Greenteeth and Nelly Long-Arms are sort of a triune of watery goblin evil and could give each other a run for the money. She is from the English fairy tradition and is identified variously as demon, nursery bogie and goddess, but always in relation to the river Tees in the northwest of England. She is a water dweller with, “…long green tresses…” and as malignant as they come, drowning dogs, cats, naughty children and anyone else she can lure to the rivers edge for spiteful pleasure. There are some beautiful waterfalls along the Tees, the distinctive foam of which has been named “Peg Powler’s suds” (sounds like a great name for a beer) and froth “Peg Powler’s cream.
Yallery Brown: Gnome
Another naughty boy is this likely lad from the English tradition. Found under a rock by a kind hearted farm hand Tom Tiver and released. Yallery, though a villain and a prankster, was grateful for the rescue and offered to reward the young man with “…a fine wife or a pot of gold…” Unwisely the farm hand turned him down claiming what he really needed was help about the farm. Yallery gave him a dirty look but agreed nonetheless on the condition that Tom never thank him for his work. Tom agreed.
The next day Tom found all the farm work done: the plowing, the digging, the cultivating—predominantly earth work. Tom was most pleased until the other ranch hands complained that he had nothing to do or that their work, which had been done, was undone and destroyed. They, of course, blamed Tom and he was eventually given the boot off the farm. Tom had been given a charm to summon the goblin and upon doing so complained that Yallery had done him no favors by messing up the work of the others or doing his work.
“I’ll thank you,” he said, “to go away and leave me to work for myself!”
Yallery thought it a hoot that Tom hand thanked him and inadvertently released him. He then informed Tom that for doing what Yallery had warned him not to, namely thank him, Tom would now learn what it meant to get no more help from Yallery. From that time on, no matter what Tom set his hand to, it came to no good and ill-fortune (Yallery) followed the young man wherever he went until the day of his death.
Now what’s what I call rotten to the earth's core