Back to Show
Monstrum
Will-o’-the-Wisp: Monstrous Flame or Scientific Phenomenon?
Season 3
Episode 5
These elusive blue flames have been reported globally and inspired a wealth of folklore. But what exactly is a Will-o’-the-Wisp? Also commonly called “ignis fatuus” or “corpse-candle” the glowing atmospheric phenomenon has a reputation for causing mischief and even death. But are they really a supernatural phenomenon or something more worldly?
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By

13:22
What inspired Pokémon’s Monster Mythology?

13:49
Horses have inspired countless equine folklore, but none are quite like the centaur.

11:02
Advances in technology are always met with some degree of technophobia—and villainization.

12:53
A majestic, all-white horse with a spiraled horn is just one depiction of many.

9:35
Bloody Mary is less important than the ritual that summons her.

9:32
Yuki-Onna, the icy snow maiden of Japanese lore, might steal your heart or your life.

10:41
This episode looks at how social media contributes to horror in the 21st century.

10:06
We explore Tiamat the “mother of monsters” in Mesopotamian mythology.

14:35
We find out when and why did the Mummy become the popular movie monster.

14:05
These monster faces make up a distinctive brand of horror in Hollywood.

9:43
This massive half-human, half-horse hybrid, the Filipino Tikbálang thrives on chaos.

12:33
What happens when plants themselves become conscious, and turn killers? We find out!