Our homes mean a lot to us, and we’re happiest when they’re filled with joy and positivity. But it’s not always easy to keep the balance, so sometimes we seek help from elsewhere to keep home life happy and ordered. We think this is why there are so many creatures in folklore that are thought to live in and around the home. It’s also useful to have someone, or something, to blame when things don’t quite go to plan! Some of these creatures are good and helpful, others are less so. Climadoor have created some lovely illustrations of the mythical creatures you might find around your home.
Different cultures have talked of house spirits for centuries, with stories and traditions carried down through generations. In the UK, you might have heard of a Brownie or Boggart (perhaps you’d recognise the alternative name, Bogeyman better!). The Brownie is a helpful creature who helps with chores whilst people are sleeping, but may leave the home or become malicious if upset. A Brownie shares a lot of characteristics with Dobby the House Elf, so may be where J.K Rowling got her inspiration for the magical creature from!
Russian homes may welcome a Domovoy and do their best to keep him happy. Home owners in China sought the presence of a Baku to keep other evil spirits away. Many cultures embrace these age-old tales that have been passed down through generations. They affect the way people run their household as they’re so deeply rooted in people’s minds.
In France, luck can be brought to the home by a Matagot, only if it’s kept happy and content. In Scandinavia, a Nisse will watch over farmland if looked after with a bowl of porridge with butter on Christmas Eve. The Irish might be wary of a visit from a Banshee, as they indicate that someone is about to die. But in Japan a Zashiki Warashi house spirit is fun, mischievous and believed to bring great fortune.
So if you ever wondered if you had a house elf, look closely and you might find that you do!
