HistoryExtra podcast Ghosts, gods & sea monsters: a supernatural history of the Atlantic
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Dec 12, 2025 In a fascinating discussion, Karl Bell, an expert in maritime folklore, delves into the supernatural stories that populated sailors' imaginations throughout history. He explores how ancient sea gods personified the ocean and reveals the contrasting beliefs of 18th-century sailors. From protective charms to the allure of mermaids, Karl connects these tales to cultural insights. He also links ghost ships and maritime folklore to contemporary issues like guilt and climate change, demonstrating their relevance today.
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The Sea Was Viewed As Sentient And Retributive
- Viewing the ocean as sentient made rescue risky and morally fraught.
- Sailors sometimes refused to save drowning people to avoid supposedly angering the sea.
Mermaids Symbolize Allure And Hidden Danger
- Mermaids fuse allure and danger, symbolizing the sea's otherness.
- They represent freedom and escape but also hidden threats beneath the surface.
Kraken Shifted From Myth To Misidentified Squid
- The kraken began as a mythical embodiment of oceanic fear.
- Discovery of giant squid shifted the kraken from supernatural to misidentified natural creature.
