Plausible origins of famous monsters

IT is often remarked that a stereotype is half based on exaggeration, and half re-enforced by truth. The myths, legends and fables that have thoroughly integrated themselves into our cultural psyche are no different.

All are scientifically and historically impossible, of course. Yet they are all ungirded from a kernel of truth, with real-world inspirations that seemed robust and logical for a primitive time. This is what makes a fairytale’s backstory so jaw dropping.

To dissect all the myths and legends of recorded history would require two full years of monthly issues to accomplish. This brief historical overview will therefore only cover the most plausible, bizarre and somewhat confirmed origins for mythical monsters our culture reveres.

Dragons and other wicked serpents

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The full article features in our 46th print issue, available for solo-purchase here for those who subscribe to the magazine for as little as £2 a month here.