Vadleány

A Vadleány is a spiritual being from Central European (Hungarian) folklore.[1][2] Similar to nymphs or dryads, Vadleány have extremely long hair, long fingernails, and are completely nude.[1][2][3] According to the Encyclopedia of Fairies in World Folklore and Mythology, they seduce wanderers and steal their strength.[1][dubious – discuss] The name translates to "wild girl".[3] When one is present, the trees make a rustling sound.[1] She could reputedly be caught by placing one boot where she habitually walked; out of curiosity she would try to put both feet in it and be caught.[2]

References

  1. ^ a b c d Bane, Theresa (2013-08-28). Encyclopedia of Fairies in World Folklore and Mythology. McFarland. p. 335. ISBN 978-1-4766-1242-3.
  2. ^ a b c MTA Néprajzi Kutató Csoport. "erdei lények". Magyar néprajzi lexikon (in Hungarian).
  3. ^ a b Hoppál, Mihály (2000). Studies on Mythology and Uralic Shamanism. Akadémiai Kiadó. p. 66. ISBN 978-963-05-7741-0.


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