Alex stoicut

vampires mitology

Vampires are mythological or folkloric beings that subsist primarily by feeding on the blood of living creatures, whether they are strigoi or living individuals. Although vampiric entities have been recorded in many cultures, according to the speculations of British literary historian Brian Frost, who believes that "vampires and demons are as old as humans themselves," their origins can be traced back to "prehistoric times." The term "vampire" gained popularity in the early 18th century, following an influx of vampire superstitions in Western Europe from regions where vampire legends were prevalent, such as the Balkans and Eastern Europe. Local variations were also known by different names, such as "вампир" in Serbia and Bulgaria, "vrykolakas" (meaning "vârcolac") in Greece, and "strigoi" in Romania. This surge in superstitions in Europe led to mass hysteria and, in some cases, people were accused of vampirism.