Human Animals

"Human Animals" by Frank Hamel is a scholarly exploration of the beliefs surrounding the transformation of humans into animals, written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on folklore and occultism, delving into various traditions and myths from different cultures that illustrate this phenomenon. It discusses the implications of lycanthropy, the mystical connections between humans and animals, and the cultural significance of such transformations. The beginning of the book sets a comprehensive framework for this extensive exploration. It introduces the idea that throughout history, many cultures have believed in the capacity for humans to metamorphose into animals, often attributing this power to sorcery or magical practices. The text elaborates on the mechanisms of transformation, including rituals and supernatural influences, and conveys how deeply ingrained these beliefs are across civilizations. Through various examples from folklore, Hamel reveals the common threads that unite human experiences with the animal realm, laying the groundwork for the chapters that follow.