The theme of the afterlife is also present. These ghost stories give an idea of what might happen to a person's spirit after death. Some spirits are trapped in this world due to unfinished business or because they were wronged in some way, and they haunt the places they were once associated with.
One well - known Native Canadian ghost story is about the Wendigo. It's a malevolent spirit often associated with the cold and famine. Legend has it that those who become consumed by greed or engage in cannibalism can turn into a Wendigo. Its appearance is said to be gaunt, with ice - covered fur and antlers, and it haunts the forests, preying on the weak.
One main theme is the connection to the land. Native Canadian origin stories often talk about how the land was created and how it provides everything for the people. Another theme is the role of animals. Animals are usually seen as important figures, either as creators or as guides for humans.
One well - known Native Canadian origin story is that of the Raven in some First Nations cultures. The Raven is often seen as a creator figure. It was said to have brought light to the world. For example, in some stories, the Raven found the sun hidden away and released it, bringing warmth and day to the people.
One characteristic is that they are passed down orally. They start from a real or supposed event that happened in the past and then get embellished over time as they are told from one person to another. They also incorporate local superstitions and beliefs. For example, in some cultures, seeing a black cat is considered bad luck and this might be related to the appearance of a ghost in a story. Moreover, native ghost stories usually create a sense of fear and mystery, which helps to keep the local folklore alive.
The Screaming Tunnel in Niagara Falls is quite terrifying. Legend has it that a young girl was burned alive in the tunnel. People say that if you light a match or a lighter at the entrance of the tunnel at night, you'll hear her screams and see her ghostly figure. Also, there are stories about phantom ships off the coast of Newfoundland. These ghostly vessels are said to be seen sailing in stormy weather, often with no crew on board.
Canadian ghost stories are unique because of the country's diverse landscapes. The vast and often wild landscapes like the Canadian Rockies or the dense forests in the north add a sense of isolation and mystery. For example, in the woods, there could be tales of lost settlers whose spirits still roam, and the remoteness makes these stories more eerie.
No, not that I'm aware of. There are no widespread or well - known 'Canadian SNL ghost stories' that have made a big splash in the entertainment world.
The natural environment also played a big role in the origin of these stories. The vast landscapes, with their mountains, forests, and deserts, were full of mystery. The howling of the wind through the canyons or the strange noises in the deep forest could inspire stories about ghosts and spirits. Different geographical features were often associated with specific spirits or events in the stories. For example, a large, old tree might be the dwelling place of a spirit, or a deep lake could be a place where a tragic event occurred and spirits now reside.