Why are black cats associated with witches, bad luck and Halloween? And how did these mysterious creatures go from being worshipped as sacred animals to becoming symbols of superstition and the supernatural?

In this Halloween Special of Folktales Then and Now, Vanessa explores the fascinating history of black cat folklore, uncovering the myths, legends and historical beliefs that shaped our perception of these enigmatic creatures.

Our journey begins in 1560 Lincolnshire, with a curious folktale about an injured black cat, a suspected witch and a strange coincidence that helped fuel beliefs about witches transforming into cats.

But the story doesn't end there.

We'll travel back to Ancient Egypt and the goddess Bastet, explore Greek mythology and witchcraft, and venture into Irish and Scottish folklore to discover the mysterious cat-sìth, a supernatural feline with a rather sinister reputation.

Along the way, we'll explore:

• The history of black cats and witchcraft.

• Why black cats became associated with witches' familiars and the devil.

• The origins of black cat superstitions and beliefs about good and bad luck.

• Celtic, Irish and Scottish folklore surrounding shape-shifting animals.

• Witch trials and the impact of superstition on ordinary people.

• Why black cats can still face challenges finding homes today.

Producer Mark joins Vanessa for a lighter look at black cat folklore around the world, including unusual good luck traditions, Japanese beliefs about romance and the extraordinary story of Blackie, the cat who inherited a £7 million fortune!

And finally, Vanessa shares a rather special childhood memory of a little book called Gobolino the Witch's Cat.

So, settle down, get cosy and join us for a little Halloween history, folklore and feline mystery.

Because perhaps the black cat hasn't changed at all. Perhaps it's the stories we've told about it that have.

Folktales Then and Now – discovering the myths, magic and folklore hidden within the landscapes and stories of Middle England.

Want to find out what we actually uncovered? See images, videos, location details and links to places and information sources on the blog: www.folktalespodcast.com

And if you have a folktale from your own corner of the world, we'd love to hear it — your story could inspire a future episode!

Hi! Thanks for listening
As a small team your reviews, likes and sharing the love mean the world to us and should you want to hear more and more any little support you also wish to bestow to us on the 'buymeacoffee' platform means we can continue to research, visit and plan more content and explore further afield.
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Folktalespodcast

Folktales Then and Now is for you if you love history, folklore, and the feeling that the world used to be just a little more magical than it sometimes feels today.

But....life sometimes gets in the way - so this is a little apology for keeping you waiting inbetween stories and an update on upcoming episodes that will be out very SOON!

Hi! Thanks for listening
As a small team your reviews, likes and sharing the love mean the world to us and should you want to hear more and more any little support you also wish to bestow to us on the 'buymeacoffee' platform means we can continue to research, visit and plan more content and explore further afield.
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Folktalespodcast

Want to find out what we actually uncovered? See images, videos, location details and links to places and information sources on the blog: www.folktalespodcast.com

And if you have a folktale from your own corner of the world, we'd love to hear it — your story could inspire a future episode!