Mexico is known for its vibrant history and intriguing folklore. Here are four of the most frightening tales from La lllorona to the Cucuy.
La llorona: La llorona’s (The Weeping Woman) story originated in Mexico City in the 1600’s, where she is known to cry out for her children, usually near bodies of water. The story goes, a woman named Maria was married to a man who was unfaithful and later abandoned her. Out of jealousy and anger she had drowned her children in a river. Once she had completed the act, she felt severe remorse and took her life as well. However, as an act of punishment for taking her own children’s lives, she was denied access into the afterlife. Now her spirit still roams on earth and she is usually seen crying and searching for her children. It is believed that her spirit looks for disobedient children and if you hear her cries close to you, she is far. But if her cries sound far, she is close.
Duendes: Duendes, which translates to “Little People”, are known to be fairies, gnomes, and goblins. They are considered helpers of nature – but they can be maleficent. Duendes are described to be less than two-feet tall, with bodies covered in long hair. It is also rumored that only children can see them. Duendes like to play tricks such as mischievous pranks but are most commonly known for hiding your belongings and causing disturbances. They sometimes lure people into getting lost. On a brighter note, they can also act as guardians and bring good luck. Duendes typically act depending on the person’s mood and intentions.
El Charro Negro: El Charro Negro (The Black Horseman) is famously known as a man dressed in all black, riding a black horse at night on lonely roads. He seeks lone travelers to give them riches and grant their desires in exchange for their soul. He is said to be cursed with this act because he was once a man who sold his soul to the devil for his dream life which then cost him later. The story of El Charro Negro symbolizes to be careful for what you wish for – as well as greed, temptation, death and the dangers of making deals with the devil.
El Cucuy: El Cucuy, also known as the Boogeyman, is described to be a lonely figure with glowing red eyes and sharp claws, or a shapeless presence that hides in the dark and threatens children or even takes them away. The story is told to children to keep them safe and to keep them from making rebellious decisions.
These four stories are only a small part of Mexico’s folklore, and show us how mystery and fear shape traditions throughout the world.
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