Cat Mythology: Cats as Familiars

In Western mythology, cats have been associated with dark and mysterious roles, often depicted as familiars to witches and practitioners of dark magic. This portrayal of cats has permeated literature and cultural symbolism, with notable references such as Grimalkin, the witches' cat in Shakespeare's Macbeth, contributing to their enigmatic reputation. Even in modern times, cats as witch's companions remain intertwined with the imagery of Halloween. But what exactly is a familiar? In Western folklore, a familiar was believed to be an animal companion bestowed by the devil to aid a witch in her malevolent deeds. These familiars were assigned names like any other pet and were considered conduits for communicating with dark forces. During the Middle Ages, speaking to one's pet was viewed as consorting with the devil, reflecting the pervasive superstitions and ignorance of the era. Familiars could manifest in various forms, including toads, dogs, or cats, but black cats, in particular, became synonymous with dark magic and were consequently reviled. Pope Gregory IX's Papal Bull "Vox in Rama" in 1233 explicitly condemned black cats as satanic, triggering widespread persecution and the mass execution of cats across Europe. Wild tales of cats shape-shifting and engaging in occult rituals fueled the hysteria, leading to unfathomable acts of cruelty. Legends surrounding black cats offered explanations for their vilification. One tale linked black cats born at the end of blackberry season to Satan's defilement of a blackberry bush, associating them with evil. Another Italian legend depicted Diana, the goddess of the moon, attempting to conceive a child with Lucifer by transforming into a black cat, further cementing the cat's association with the occult. Despite the fantastical nature of these stories, they were accepted as truth by the superstitious populace of the Middle Ages, resulting in dire consequences. The mass extermination of cats disrupted the natural balance of ecosystems, leading to a proliferation of vermin, particularly rats. The unchecked rat population not only depleted food stores meant for humans but also served as carriers of deadly diseases like the bubonic plague, leading to widespread famine and epidemic. In hindsight, the persecution of cats serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of misplaced zeal and superstition, underscoring the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world. The dark legacy of cat mythology serves as a reminder of the profound impact of irrational beliefs on society's well-being.