Skip to main content
Back to Show
Monstrum

Werehyena: The Terrifying Shapeshifters of African Lore

Season 3 Episode 2

African folklore dictates that unlike other werecreatures this monster is an animal that disguises itself in human form. By day it walks the earth nearly indistinguishable from humans, but at night it returns to its true hyena shape. We take a look at Beta Israel, or Ethiopian Jews, who became commonly accused of taking the guise of this monster and why prejudice contributes to monster lore.

Support Provided By
Season
Manananggal: A Flying, Disembodied, Blood Sucking Nightmare
9:15
One of the Phillipine’s most dangerous and bizarre aswangs.
The Origin of Medusa
5:45
Medusa has inspired art for centuries, whether as a symbol of protection or a monster.
Blame the Tokoloshe! South Africa’s Most Notorious Goblin
6:25
They cause havoc in the lives of all those unfortunate enough to encounter them.
Cyclops: The Origin Story of this Terrifying One-Eyed Giant
11:00
The cyclops has appeared in stories across the globe for thousands of years.
Rethinking Frankenstein's Monster
5:57
Rethinking the characterization of Frankenstein's Monster as more sympathetic and soulful.
Mothman: America's Notorious Winged Monster
22:24
Mothman: America's Notorious Winged Monster
Banshee: Ireland's Screaming Harbinger of Death
6:40
You might not think a crying, screaming ghost is a good thing, but you’d be wrong.
Post-Dracula Vampires: From Anne Rice to Twilight
8:09
Post-Dracula Vampires: From Anne Rice to Twilight
Windigo: The Flesh-Eating Monster of Native American Legend
8:25
Explore the symbolic interpretations of the windigo.
Release the Kraken!
6:07
Legend has it this monster could take down ships and create whirlpools.
Martians! How Aliens Invaded Earth
7:55
Martians! How Aliens Invaded Earth
Golem: The Mysterious Clay Monster of Jewish Lore
6:16
Golem: The Mysterious Clay Monster of Jewish Lore
Active loading indicator