Banshee
Artwork by Benedetta Fiore. ArtStation | Instagram
Origin: Ireland
Other names: banshee, bean sidhe, ben síde
It’s said that when someone hears a banshee’s screams and keening, she’s foretelling the death of their family member. The loved one may have died far away, but the banshee’s wailing would still deliver the news long before a message could arrive. She might also use her cries to warn mortals against entering dangerous situations in which they will likely die.
Stories usually depict her with long, flowing hair, a gray cloak, and eyes red from weeping. In some regions, she is short—anywhere from one foot to four feet tall—and mistaken for an old woman. Or she may take the form of a virgin who died young. She’s also often associated with fairy mounds.
A single banshee might wail for the death of someone dear, but when a group of banshees cry together, it indicates that someone great or holy has passed. This likely comes from the first known written record of the banshee, Sean Mac Ruaidhrí Mac Craith’s 1380 Cathreim Thoirdhealbhaigh (or Triumphs of Torlough). In it, the Ua Briain bashee, Aibell, ruled over twenty-five other banshees.
Appearances in media
Movies:
Banshee (short horror film)
Television:
Music: