Luisón (루이손)

WerewolfParaguay · South AmericaLegendFear 9/10

Description

The seventh and most terrifying of seven cursed monster sons born to Tau and Kerana in Guarani mythology. A gaunt, cadaverous werewolf associated with death — his mere presence causes plague and decay. Transforms on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights. The original Latin American werewolf legend, predating European influence

Origin & Background

The legend of Luisón is widely spread in areas where the Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) inhabits in South America. Although wolves do not naturally exist in South America, settlers brought their myths and legends, particularly stories about werewolves. The Maned Wolf is a slender animal with a wolf-like appearance that moves with a slow gait. This appearance fits well with the popular depiction of werewolves and ultimately merged with the local Guarani mythology.

The Legend

Luisón is considered the seventh and last son of Tau (Taw) and Kerana, regarded as the most cursed being. He is said to appear in the form of a gigantic dog, possessing a very ugly and terrifying appearance. According to legend, the seventh son of a family transforms on his 13th birthday.

In Popular Culture

Since the 19th century, there has been a custom in Argentina where the president designates the 'godfather' of the seventh male child of a married couple. This custom arose due to people's superstitious fears, leading to instances where the seventh son was sacrificed. In 1907, the first official baptism involving a president as godfather took place, and on March 12, 1973, President Juan Domingo Perón legally established this custom. However, this law is currently considered outdated and based on superstition, and discussions for its repeal are underway.

This article is based on the Wikipedia article "Luison" (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikipedia