The Banshee

 A banshee is a female spirit that originated in Irish mythology. It is said that her wails or shrieks herald the death of a family member. Descriptions of what a banshee looks like have varied over time. She is either depicted as a beautiful woman or an old hag.


The banshee is a fascinating figure in Irish mythology. Her wails and shrieks that are believed to herald the death of a family member have captured the imagination of people for centuries. While descriptions of her appearance vary, she is usually depicted as a beautiful woman or an old hag. Interestingly, the banshee is also sometimes depicted as a crow on a windowsill or a woman washing the armor or clothes of someone about to die.

Contrary to popular belief, the banshee is not a monster. In Irish folklore, she only predicted death and mourned with the family. Each ancient Irish family had their own banshee who resided near their home and watched over the family lineage, helping to guide the souls of the dead into the afterlife. The banshee is said to have long streaming fair hair and red eyes from weeping. She usually wears a grey cloak over a green dress, but according to Lady Fanshawe, an English memoirist who lived in the 17th century, a banshee is dressed in white with red hair and a ghastly complexion. It is said that Lady Fanshawe saw one for herself. Overall, the banshee is a unique and intriguing part of Irish mythology.



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