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BANSHEE

Banshees are believed to be spirits of nature and are commonly called fallen angels.  She is commonly believed to be an omen of death and screeches before someone is to die.

The banshee normally wears a gray hooded cloak or grave robe.  She usually appears as an ugly old hag but can also show herself as a beautiful woman.  Banshees can even appear in other forms such as the animals associated with witchcraft-hooded crow, stoat, hare and weasel.

Banshees were originally said to appear for only four Irish families but that has been extended with marriages.

If a group of Banshees appear, it is believed to be a sign of a great or holy person’s death. In 1437, Scottish King James the 1st is said to have been approached by one such being. There have been numerous reports of the same thing happening to members of the royal court and other high-profile members of Irish society.

Banshees are fairly popular and In Ireland enjoy the same status as leprechauns.  One possible origin of the Banshee are keeners, women in Ireland that sing songs of lament at funerals.

Books with Banshees

• The Soul Screamers Series by Rachel Vincent
• The Dead is Series by Marlene Perez

Movies with Banshees

• Scream of the Banshee
• The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns

What do you think of the Banshee? Is there any book or movie where you’ve seen them that you liked? Join us in the forum for discussions!