Supernatural is a popular American television series that has captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. The show follows the lives of two brothers, Sam and Dean Winchester, as they hunt supernatural creatures and fight against evil forces. But where did the idea for Supernatural come from? Is it based on anything? In this article, we will explore the origins of Supernatural, from its roots in folklore to its influence from horror games. We will delve into the history of the supernatural in popular culture and how it has shaped the show’s narrative. So, get ready to uncover the secrets behind one of the most beloved shows of our time.
The Influence of Folklore on Supernatural
Supernatural Creatures in Folklore
Vampires
Vampires have been a part of folklore for centuries, originating from Eastern European legends. These creatures were believed to be undead, feeding on the blood of the living to sustain their own existence. The legend of Dracula, famously depicted in Bram Stoker’s novel, is a prime example of the vampire’s impact on folklore. This legend has since been adapted into countless films, television shows, and other forms of media, further cementing the vampire’s place in popular culture.
Werewolves
Werewolves, like vampires, have been a staple of folklore for centuries. The legend of the werewolf originated in Europe, with tales of humans transforming into wolves under the full moon. These creatures were often seen as a symbol of the darker side of human nature, representing the uncontrolled rage and violence that lurks within us all. The werewolf has since appeared in countless works of fiction, including the popular “Twilight” series and “True Blood” television show.
Zombies
Zombies, while not as deeply rooted in folklore as vampires and werewolves, have still had a significant impact on popular culture. The origins of the zombie can be traced back to Haitian folklore, where they were believed to be reanimated corpses brought back to life by magic. Since then, the zombie has become a staple of horror fiction, with films such as “Night of the Living Dead” and “The Walking Dead” television show popularizing the concept of a zombie apocalypse.
In conclusion, the supernatural creatures of folklore have had a profound impact on popular culture, inspiring countless works of fiction across various mediums. From vampires to werewolves to zombies, these creatures continue to captivate audiences and spark the imagination, serving as a testament to the enduring power of folklore.
Folklore and Supernatural Mythology
Crossroads and Demonic Bargains
Folklore has played a significant role in shaping the supernatural mythology of many cultures. One of the most well-known examples of this is the concept of crossroads and the demonic bargains that are said to take place there. In many stories, a traveler at a crossroads may encounter a demon or other malevolent entity who offers them a deal in exchange for their soul. This concept has been used in various forms in many cultures, including the tales of Robert Johnson, a blues musician who allegedly sold his soul to the devil at a crossroads.
Haunted Locations and Supernatural Activity
Another way in which folklore has influenced supernatural mythology is through the concept of haunted locations and supernatural activity. Many places around the world are said to be haunted by ghosts, demons, or other entities, and these stories often stem from folklore and mythology. For example, the legend of the haunted house is a common trope in many cultures, with stories of restless spirits and paranormal activity.
Exorcisms and Paranormal Phenomena
Folklore has also played a role in shaping beliefs about exorcisms and paranormal phenomena. In many cultures, it is believed that certain entities or spirits can possess a person’s body, and exorcisms are performed to remove these entities. The rituals and practices surrounding exorcisms have been influenced by folklore and mythology, with many cultures having their own unique traditions and beliefs about how to perform an exorcism.
Overall, folklore has had a significant impact on the development of supernatural mythology, shaping the beliefs and practices surrounding many paranormal phenomena. These stories and traditions continue to influence popular culture today, with many supernatural films, television shows, and books drawing on the themes and motifs of folklore to create their own unique versions of the supernatural.
Supernatural in Popular Culture
The Evolution of Supernatural Horror in Literature
Bram Stoker’s Dracula
- Published in 1897, Dracula is considered a seminal work in the genre of supernatural horror.
- The novel introduces Count Dracula, a powerful vampire who travels from Transylvania to England to spread the undead curse.
- Dracula’s character embodies many of the tropes that have become synonymous with vampire mythology, including an aversion to garlic and crosses, the ability to shape-shift into a bat, and the need to drink blood to survive.
- The novel’s impact on popular culture cannot be overstated, with Dracula becoming a symbol of horror and a cultural icon.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
- Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, published in 1818, is often considered the first true work of science fiction.
- The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a humanoid creature from body parts and brings it to life.
- The creature, often referred to as Frankenstein’s monster, becomes a metaphor for the dangers of playing God and the unintended consequences of scientific experimentation.
- Frankenstein has been adapted into numerous films and plays, and its themes continue to resonate with audiences today.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
- The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, published in 1886, is a novella that explores the dual nature of humanity.
- The story follows Dr. Henry Jekyll, a respected scientist and physician, who creates a potion that transforms him into the violent and amoral Mr. Hyde.
- The novella explores themes of identity, morality, and the struggle between good and evil.
- The character of Mr. Hyde has become a symbol of the darker side of human nature, and the story has been adapted into numerous films, plays, and other works.
Supernatural in Film
Early Supernatural Films
Supernatural films have been a staple of cinema since the early days of filmmaking. Some of the earliest supernatural films include The Phantom Carriage (1921), directed by Victor Sjöström, and The Vampire (1915), directed by Robert G. Vignola. These films were influenced by Gothic literature and folklore, and often featured themes of the supernatural and the occult.
Modern Supernatural Movies
In recent years, supernatural films have become increasingly popular, with many successful franchises and standalone films being produced. The Blade franchise, directed by Wesley Snipes, is one example of a successful supernatural film franchise that combines elements of horror and science fiction. The Twilight series, directed by Catherine Hardwicke, is another example of a successful supernatural film franchise that explores themes of love and immortality.
In addition to these franchises, there have also been many successful standalone supernatural films in recent years, such as The Conjuring (2013), directed by James Wan, and Get Out (2017), directed by Jordan Peele. These films often draw on themes of horror and suspense, and use elements of folklore and superstition to create a sense of dread and unease.
Overall, supernatural films have played a significant role in popular culture, and continue to be a beloved and influential genre in the world of cinema.
Supernatural in Video Games
Early Supernatural Video Games
Supernatural video games have been around for decades, with some of the earliest examples dating back to the 1980s. One of the first supernatural video games was “Haunted House” released in 1985 for the Atari 2600. This game featured a player exploring a haunted house filled with ghosts and other supernatural creatures.
Another early supernatural video game was “Castlevania” released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System. This game follows the adventures of a vampire hunter as they explore Dracula’s castle, fighting off supernatural creatures and monsters along the way.
Modern Supernatural Horror Games
In recent years, supernatural horror games have become increasingly popular, with many new titles being released on a regular basis. Some of the most popular modern supernatural horror games include:
- “Resident Evil” series: This game series has been around since 1996 and features zombies, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures.
- “Silent Hill” series: This game series, which began in 1999, features a town plagued by supernatural occurrences and creatures.
- “Outlast” series: This game series, which began in 2013, features a journalist investigating a mysterious asylum filled with supernatural occurrences.
- “Until Dawn”: This game, released in 2015, follows a group of teenagers who must survive a night on a mountain after a mysterious event occurs.
- “Alien: Isolation”: This game, released in 2014, features a space station infested with a deadly alien creature.
These games often incorporate elements of folklore and horror, creating a thrilling and terrifying experience for players.
The Impact of Supernatural on Popular Culture
Fashion and Style
Supernatural has had a significant impact on fashion and style, particularly in the young adult demographic. The show’s characters, particularly Sam and Dean Winchester, have been known to sport a particular style of clothing that has become iconic. The brothers’ style consists of dark-washed jeans, plain t-shirts, leather jackets, and boots. This style has been widely imitated, and it has become a staple of the supernatural subculture. Fans of the show have been known to attend conventions and events dressed in Supernatural-inspired clothing, and even cosplay as their favorite characters.
Music and Art
Supernatural has also had an impact on the music and art scene. The show’s use of music has been praised for its ability to set the tone and mood of each episode. The show’s creator, Eric Kripke, has said that music plays a crucial role in the show’s storytelling, and he has even curated playlists for each episode. These playlists have become popular among fans, and they have helped to create a unique connection between the show and its audience.
In addition to music, Supernatural has also inspired a range of artwork, including fan art and official merchandise. The show’s iconic imagery, such as the Impala and the Winchester family crest, has been featured in various forms of art, from paintings to tattoos. The show’s impact on the art world has been significant, and it has helped to create a thriving fan community that celebrates the show’s unique style and aesthetic.
Language and Slang
Supernatural has also had an impact on language and slang. The show has introduced a range of new words and phrases into popular culture, such as “helluva,” “freakin’,” and “badass.” These words and phrases have become part of the show’s unique lexicon, and they have been adopted by fans and non-fans alike. The show’s use of slang has helped to create a distinctive voice for the show, and it has contributed to the show’s overall appeal.
Overall, Supernatural has had a significant impact on popular culture, particularly in the areas of fashion, music, art, and language. The show’s unique style and aesthetic have helped to create a thriving fan community, and its influence can be seen in various forms of media and entertainment.
Drawing Inspiration from Supernatural for Horror Games
Incorporating Supernatural Creatures and Myths
Unique Monsters and Mythical Beings
When it comes to incorporating supernatural creatures and myths into horror games, developers often turn to folklore and mythology for inspiration. Many classic horror game monsters, such as vampires, werewolves, and ghosts, have their roots in traditional supernatural legends. By drawing on these established myths and legends, game designers can tap into a rich vein of cultural storytelling that has been passed down through generations.
Blending Myths and Legends
In addition to drawing on established myths and legends, some horror games also blend different supernatural elements together to create new and unique monsters. For example, the game “The Last of Us” features a creature known as the “Clicker,” which is a zombie-like being that has been infected with a fungal infection. This creature blends elements of traditional zombie mythology with the more unique supernatural elements introduced by the game’s story.
By blending different supernatural elements together, game designers can create monsters that feel fresh and unique, while still drawing on established myths and legends. This approach also allows developers to put their own spin on traditional supernatural creatures, making them feel more original and terrifying.
Overall, incorporating supernatural creatures and myths into horror games is a great way to tap into the rich tradition of storytelling that has been passed down through generations. By drawing on established myths and legends, or blending different supernatural elements together, game designers can create monsters that feel fresh and unique, while still drawing on the power of traditional folklore and mythology.
Creating Atmosphere and Tension
Haunted Locations and Environments
One way to create atmosphere and tension in a horror game is by setting the game in a haunted location or environment. These locations can be based on real-life haunted places or completely fictional ones. They can be abandoned buildings, creepy forests, old mansions, or even underground caves. The environment should be designed to be unsettling and make the player feel uneasy.
Narrative Techniques and Storytelling
Another way to create atmosphere and tension is through the use of narrative techniques and storytelling. The game’s story can be designed to slowly unravel, revealing pieces of the plot and creating suspense. This can be achieved through the use of jump scares, cliffhangers, and other horror tropes. Additionally, the use of sound effects and music can be used to enhance the game’s atmosphere and create a sense of dread.
Overall, creating atmosphere and tension in a horror game is crucial to providing an immersive and terrifying experience for the player. By utilizing haunted locations and environments, as well as narrative techniques and storytelling, game designers can create a horror game that is both thrilling and unsettling.
The Evolution of Supernatural Horror Games
Early Supernatural Horror Games
The earliest supernatural horror games can be traced back to the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the video game industry was still in its infancy. Some of the most influential games in this genre include Alone in the Dark (1992) and Resident Evil (1996), which introduced players to a world of terrifying creatures, supernatural forces, and haunted locations. These games relied heavily on jump scares and atmosphere to create a sense of dread and fear in players, and their success spawned a whole new wave of supernatural horror games.
In recent years, the supernatural horror genre has seen a resurgence in popularity, with games like Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010), Outlast (2013), and Until Dawn (2015) pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the genre. These games often feature complex narratives, rich character development, and advanced graphics that immerse players in a world of terror. Many of these games also incorporate elements of psychological horror, exploring themes of insanity, madness, and the human psyche.
One of the most notable trends in modern supernatural horror games is the use of cosmic horror, which draws inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft and other authors. Games like Call of Cthulhu (2018) and The Sinking City (2019) delve deep into the unknown, exploring ancient civilizations, eldritch abominations, and otherworldly beings that defy the laws of nature. These games often feature open-world environments, allowing players to explore and uncover the mysteries of their terrifying world.
Future Trends and Developments
As the supernatural horror genre continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and terrifying games that push the boundaries of what is possible. Some of the future trends and developments to watch out for include:
- Virtual reality (VR) integration: With the rise of VR technology, we can expect to see more supernatural horror games that fully immerse players in a terrifying world. Games like Blair Witch (2019) have already shown the potential of VR in creating a truly immersive horror experience.
- Increased focus on storytelling: As the gaming industry continues to mature, we can expect to see more supernatural horror games that prioritize storytelling and character development over gameplay mechanics. Games like Layers of Fear (2016) and Until Dawn have already shown that a well-crafted narrative can be just as terrifying as any jump scare or monster.
- Collaboration with other media: We can also expect to see more supernatural horror games that draw inspiration from other media, such as films, books, and comics. Collaborations like The Walking Dead (2012) game series have already proven to be successful, and we can expect to see more crossovers and adaptations in the future.
FAQs
1. Is Supernatural based on a book or a true story?
Supernatural is not based on a specific book or true story. The show is a work of fiction created by writers and producers Eric Kripke, and it is not intended to be a retelling of any pre-existing story. While the show draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including horror and folklore, it is primarily a work of creative fiction.
2. How does Supernatural use folklore in its storytelling?
Supernatural draws heavily on folklore and mythology from around the world in its storytelling. The show features a wide range of supernatural creatures, from demons and vampires to shapeshifters and witches, that are rooted in folklore from various cultures. The show also incorporates many elements of folklore, such as ancient rituals and spells, into its storylines. By using these elements, Supernatural creates a rich and diverse world of supernatural creatures and events that feels grounded in a larger tradition of storytelling.
3. Are there any real-life inspirations for the characters in Supernatural?
While the characters in Supernatural are not based on specific real-life individuals, the show does draw inspiration from many sources when creating its characters. For example, the character of Dean Winchester is often compared to classic anti-heroes like James Dean or Marlon Brando, while Sam Winchester is often seen as a more intellectual and bookish character similar to characters played by actors like Jared Padalecki or Jensen Ackles. The show also draws inspiration from classic horror films and television shows, and the characters often embody elements of those genres.
4. Is Supernatural connected to any other horror franchises or games?
While Supernatural is not directly connected to any other horror franchises or games, it does draw inspiration from a variety of sources within the horror genre. The show features many classic horror elements, such as creepy music, jump scares, and supernatural creatures, that are common in horror films and games. Additionally, the show’s creators have cited their love for horror films and games as an influence on the show’s tone and style. However, Supernatural is primarily a standalone series that does not intersect with other horror franchises or games.