DEVIL’S HORSE
The Devil’s Horse: A Symbol of Superstition in Ozark Folklore
In the rich tapestry of Ozark folklore, the term “Devil’s horse” is a colloquial reference to the praying mantis, a fascinating insect shrouded in mystery and superstition. The praying mantis, with its elongated body, folded forelimbs resembling a prayerful stance, and piercing gaze, has long been an object of both reverence and fear in rural communities.
Superstitions Surrounding the Praying Mantis
The association of the praying mantis with the “Devil’s horse” stems from its perceived connection to misfortune and its strikingly otherworldly appearance. Many in the Ozarks believed it was bad luck to disturb or kill a praying mantis. This superstition was fueled by tales that the insect could spit a form of “tobacco juice” into a person’s eye, causing blindness. While this is biologically untrue, the myth persisted, amplifying the creature’s ominous reputation.
Adding to its mystique, some rural traditions falsely held that the praying mantis was poisonous. This belief, though unfounded, added to the fear and caution surrounding interactions with the insect. Farmers and children alike were warned to avoid the mantis, reinforcing its place as a symbol of the unknown and potentially dangerous.
Cultural Interpretations and Symbolism
The praying mantis has not only been a figure of fear but also one of fascination. Its slow, deliberate movements and almost meditative posture evoke a sense of purpose and calm, contrasting sharply with its predatory nature. In some cultures, the mantis is a symbol of patience and focus, while in Ozark folklore, it is often viewed through a more sinister lens.
The term “Devil’s horse” may also reflect the insect’s angular, skeletal frame, which could be likened to a demonic steed in rural imaginations. The mantis’s ability to swiftly and ruthlessly capture its prey likely contributed to its association with danger and malevolent forces.
MODERN PERSPECTIVES
While many of the old superstitions have faded over time, the praying mantis still holds a place of intrigue in folklore and nature. Modern entomologists and nature enthusiasts celebrate the mantis for its role in controlling pest populations and its unique biological adaptations. Efforts to educate communities about the insect’s harmlessness have dispelled much of the fear surrounding it, though the echoes of folklore remain in stories passed down through generations.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The “Devil’s horse” stands as a testament to the power of folklore to shape perceptions of the natural world. While the praying mantis is neither poisonous nor capable of spitting blinding juice, its place in Ozark folklore highlights humanity’s tendency to infuse the unknown with layers of meaning, both fearful and fascinating. Today, the praying mantis is celebrated for its ecological importance, even as its folkloric identity as the Devil’s horse continues to captivate imaginations.
SOURCE
The Encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology – Written by Rosemary Ellen Guiley – Copyright © 2009 by Visionary Living, Inc.
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