Aguane — a Mountain Spirit in Celtic Mythology
AguaneThe aguane is a mountain spirit in Celtic mythology. She dwells on the slopes of the Alps and appears as a beautiful, long-haired maiden. Aguane can be found near alpine rivers and lakes, whose waters they guard.
They are not hostile to humans, but may grow angry at anyone who disrespects a body of water, pollutes it, or simply muddies it. So before wading across a river or bathing in a lake, one should first ask an aguane for permission. If a trespasser breaks her rules and angers her with their behavior, it will not end well. The guardian of the waters will drag the offender down beneath the surface, or lure them into a cave to devour them. Aguane are especially hostile toward rapists and those who mistreat women. For such men, there is no mercy.
The beautiful AguaneDespite their harsh treatment of those who harm nature, aguane are otherwise very good-natured. They may come down from the mountains and visit human settlements, where they enjoy talking with people or trading with them. They are especially kind to children, and may carry them on their shoulders to ferry them across a river if needed. In winter, they dress in fur coats.
At times, an aguane may take the form of a hideous old woman with goat's hooves or feet turned backward. This form, however, seems to be used only rarely, and only for disguise or to frighten away unwelcome visitors. In most tales, they are always beautiful, and most often cast a spell of love over men, who find themselves unable to resist their beauty.
Related Articles
