What Mythical Creature Am I?

In most folklore, the world is filled with mysterious creatures that exist alongside humankind, often encountered by travellers who reach far-off lands. Hundreds of years ago, people had little knowledge of the world and the lands surrounding them, and it was common for journeys on land and voyages at sea to generate tales of strange men, man-like beasts, and monsters.

These fantastical beings can take the form of great beasts such as the dragon, griffin, and the Pegasus, which are so common that cultures across the world have their own variations, from Europe to Mexico, India and China.

Other times, mythical creatures are marvellous combinations of different animals. Generally depicted as fearsome monsters, examples of these include the quintessential Chimera, Manticore, and Hippogriff, who are said to guard extraordinary treasures from greedy human explorers.

The most prevalent mythical creatures, however, look eerily similar to normal people. Fairies and fair folk, and the elves related to them, for example, are magical entities that are so physically alike to us that they can trick wanderers into believing they’re human and following them into their secret village deep in the woods or underground. Stories of unlucky wanderers being killed, eaten, or enslaved used to be told quite often in the olden days, so as to dissuade adventurous children from playing outside at night.

It seems that the most human-like mythical beings were also the most capricious, like in the tales of seamen who were slaughtered by mermaids after falling to their seductive songs, and all manner of vengeful spirits and ghouls that waylay those who travel at the dead of night. Some, like demons, imps, and spectres, are commonly depicted as the most malignant of mythical creatures, so it’s no surprise that you’d use their names to call someone whom you dislike.

Other humanoid beings are less hostile, including the riddling Sphinx, the whimsical gnomes and dwarves, and the mischievous leprechauns.

Whatever mythical being you are, be sure to look at their best qualities and snuff out the worst.