Sea witch (mythology)

For other uses, see Sea Witch (disambiguation).

Sea witches have been featured in European folklore for centuries.

Mythology

Traditionally, sea witches were witches who appeared among sailors or others involved in the seafaring trade. Sea witches used witchcraft related to the moon, tides, and the weather, or were believed to have complete control over the seas. Many sailors fell prey to the sea witches curse on ships and were finally delivered to the one who rules all..[1] In some folklore, sea witches are described as phantoms, ghosts,or in the form of a mermaid. These creatures would then have the power to control the fates of ships and seamen.[2]

As the name implies, sea witches are believed to be able to control many aspects of nature relating to water, most commonly the ocean or sea. However, in more modern times, sea witches can also practice witchcraft on or near any source of water: lakes, rivers, bath tubs, or even simply a bowl of salt water.[1]

In addition to their powers over water, sea witches could often control the wind. A common feature of many tales was a rope tied into three knots, which witches often sold to sailors to aid them on a voyage. Pulling the first knot could yield a gentle, southeasterly wind, while pulling two could generate a strong northerly wind.[3]

Sea witches often improvise on what they have, rather than making purchases from a store or from another person. Common tools include clam, scallop, or oyster shells in place of bowls or cauldrons. Other items include seaweed, fishing net, shells, sea grass, driftwood, pieces of sea glass, and even sand.[4]

A sea witch named Morgana was a main contributor in luring sailors to their deaths. After falling in love with a young hero,who was sadly lost to the sea, she vowed to help other heroes and sailors in their travels. This caused her to be outcast among her sisters. After trying to help a son of Ares she was impaled with a spear and dissolved into the sea foam, her final resting place.[4]

Along with their inclusion in older stories, sea witches have been included in contemporary stories as well.

See also

References

  1. 1 2 "Sea Witches". Retrieved 2008-07-05.
  2. Gods, goddesses, and mythology, Volume 1. Retrieved May 25, 2010.
  3. "Ligature". Retrieved 2008-07-05.
  4. 1 2 Cunningham, Scott (1983). Earth Power: Techniques of natural magic. Llewellyn Worldwide. ISBN 0875421210.
  5. "Ursula the Sea Witch". Retrieved 2008-07-05.
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