The Monstrefact Redux: He Who Walks Behind the Rows
Summary
Host Robert Lamb explores the mythological roots of Stephen King’s “Children of the Corn,” connecting its green deity to European folklore. He details the “corn wolf” and field spirits from German traditions, citing Brad Steiger and Robert Eisler’s anthropological works. The episode links these ancient grain spirits to modern monocrop anxiety, illustrating how King’s fictional horror reflects real-world agricultural fears and historical superstitions.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to Monster Fact and Stephen King's story
Plot summary of Children of the Corn
He Who Walks Behind the Roses and Shub-Niggurath
Mesoamerican maize gods and sacred crops
European folklore: Field spirits and the term 'corn'
The Corn Wolf: A supernatural predator in fields
Robert Eisler's 'Man into Wolf' and Jungian theory
Cross-referencing folklore sources and bean spirits
Monocrop anxiety and the horror of industrial agriculture
Outro and Pilot Pen Friction Vibe sponsor
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