Ologies with Alie Ward – Teratology (MONSTERS) with W. Scott Poole

Intro

In this episode of “Ologies with Alie Ward,” acclaimed author and horror fanboy W. Scott Poole joins Alie to discuss Teratology, the study of monsters in folklore and fiction. They delve into the various types of monsters, the hidden meanings in horror movies, the cultural and historical context of monsters, and the psychological appeal of monsters. Get ready to explore the fascinating world of monsters and their significance in our society.

Main Takeaways

Monsters as Reflections of Societal Anxieties

• Monsters mirror our fears and reflect societal anxieties.
• Monsters are a way we talk about important topics such as gender, politics, society, and economic inequality.
• Monsters are not just metaphors, they express real anxieties for many people.

Historical and Cultural Context of Monsters

• Monsters likely existed before homo sapiens, with evidence suggesting prehistoric ancestors had experiences with the monstrous.
• The first experiences of religion were related to ceremonial burial, which likely held meaning in terms of grief, community solidarity, and politics.
• The political, historical, and cultural context defines the monster.

Monsters in Film and Media

• Horror movies often contain secret messages and hidden meanings.
• Special effects makeup is used to create terrifying monsters in Hollywood productions.
• Imagery in horror films can reflect what’s happening in society at the time.

Monsters and the LGBTQ+ Community

• Director James Whale included in-jokes for the LGBTQ+ community in his films.
• LGBTQ+ community finds representation in queer-coded monsters like Babadook.
• Disfigurement is still representative of the other in horror tradition.

Belief in Cryptids and Folklore Monsters

• Cryptids are creatures that some cryptozoologists swear really exist, such as Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster.
• People have a desire for wonder and belief in the unknown, which can be fulfilled by cryptids.
• Monsters and ghosts embody death and chaos and represent our fear of having a bad death.

Monsters in Literature and Pop Culture

• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein explores themes of creation, abandonment, and societal rejection.
• The Bride of Frankenstein challenges traditional gender roles and has become an iconic figure in horror tradition.
• Godzilla, with its political and atomic bomb references, is one of the most important monsters in film history.

Summary

Monsters as Reflections of Societal Anxieties

Monsters serve as symbolic representations of our fears and societal anxieties. They provide a way for us to discuss important topics such as gender, politics, society, and economic inequality. These creatures are not mere metaphors; they express real anxieties that many people experience.

Historical and Cultural Context of Monsters

Monsters have likely existed since prehistoric times, with evidence suggesting that our ancestors had encounters with the monstrous. The first experiences of religion were intertwined with ceremonial burial, which held significance in terms of grief, community solidarity, and politics. The definition and perception of monsters are shaped by the political, historical, and cultural context in which they emerge.

Monsters in Film and Media

Horror movies often contain hidden messages and meanings that reflect the current state of society. Special effects makeup is used to create terrifying and realistic monsters in Hollywood productions, enhancing the audience’s fear and engagement. The imagery in horror films can serve as a reflection of societal issues and provide a platform for social commentary.

Monsters and the LGBTQ+ Community

Director James Whale, known for his horror films, included subtle nods and in-jokes for the LGBTQ+ community in his works. Queer-coded monsters, such as the Babadook, provide representation for the LGBTQ+ community within the horror genre. However, disfigurement in horror tradition still represents the “other,” highlighting the need for diverse and inclusive portrayals of monsters.

Belief in Cryptids and Folklore Monsters

Cryptids, creatures whose existence is unconfirmed, continue to capture the imagination and wonder of many. People are drawn to the mystery and excitement surrounding cryptids like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, which can fulfill a desire for belief in the unknown. Monsters and ghosts, deeply rooted in folklore, embody our fear of death and chaos.

Monsters in Literature and Pop Culture

Monsters have played significant roles in literature and pop culture. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein explores themes of creation, abandonment, and societal rejection. The Bride of Frankenstein challenges traditional gender roles and has become an iconic figure in horror tradition. Godzilla, with its political and atomic bomb references, holds a prominent place in film history.

Conclusion

Monsters, whether they are creatures of folklore, film, or literature, hold a special place in our collective imagination. They reflect our fears, anxieties, and societal issues. Through the study of teratology, we can gain insights into the human psyche and the cultural context that shapes our understanding of monsters. So, embrace the darkness and explore the fascinating world of monsters and their significance in our lives.