Terminology about werewolves. A werewolf, also known as a lycanthrope, is a mythological or folkloric human with the ability to shapeshift into a wolf or a wolf-man hybrid creature, either purposely, by being bitten by another werewolf, or after being placed under a curse.
This transformation is often associated with the appearance of the full moon, as noted by the medieval chronicler Gervase of Tilbury, or Petronius in Greek antiquity. Werewolves are often attributed superhuman strength and senses, far beyond those of both wolves and men. The werewolf is generally held as a European monster, although its lore spread through the world in later times. Shapeshifters, similar to werewolves but concerned with other animals, are archetypes that appear in mainly myths and folk tales accross the planet. A distinction is often made between voluntary and involuntary werewolves. Werewolf. Werewolf Terminology. What's in a Howl. What's in a Howl?
By Fred H. Harrington Professor of EthologyMount Saint Vincent University, Nova Scotia Ask anyone about wolf vocalizations and the howl invariably springs to mind. Warren Zevon - Werewolves of London. Werewolves of London.