10 Strange Folklore Myths You Won't Believe

6. The Banshee

The banshee differs in folklore depending on the location of the tradition so in Ireland she is known as the Bean Sì and in Scotland, Bean Sìth. She is a female spirit who will wail when someone is about to die and she is seen as more of an omen; essentially a messenger from the Underworld as opposed to a murderer. She can appear in a variety of different forms but is usually in the guise of an old, ugly hag who will wash the bloody clothes of those who are about to die. It's a mystery as to why their clothes are bloody before their death but no one is going to complain about some good deathy foreshadowing and free washing up. As manners are important, if you ask her nicely enough, she will reveal the names of those who will die and in special cases, you can ask her three questions (as she has the gift of foresight, similar to that of a seer) but you need to answer three of her questions in return.