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There are too many to individually list. Much of Medieval folklore and legend comes from ancient pagan beliefs being reinvented or adopted by the Medieval mind. The prevalent Christian religion also aided the organic growth of these legends, attributing the origins of many such creatures and forces to demonic sources. This led to the very widespread concerns and stories regarding such things as monsters, fairies, goblins, nature spirits and cryptids. In fact, several Medieval bestiaries were compiled featuring incredible beasts, monsters and oddities. But not all folklore was steeped in such dark tones; the Arthurian legends, tales of valor and knighthood, terrific battles and heroes also took on legendary proportions and devotions and celebrations came to developed accordingly. Since modern science was very much in its infancy (one could say in was still in its gestation period) things such as alchemy were pursued, with its ultimate goal being the transmutation of metals and substances. Exploration gave rise to tales of fabulous sea creatures, foreign peoples and lands; one of the great legends being that of Prester John, a fabled ruler of a fabulous eastern kingdom. Everything from incantations to spells to various potions were used to combat sickness and injury. Religion was the central point of most peoples' lives and from this stemmed an entire way of behaving and believing. Ignorance or the misunderstanding of some natural explanation was often satisfied by giving a religious explanation.

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15y ago

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