Short Fiction · Chapter
IX: “To a Terrified Victim He Is Doom Itself.” explained
Talbot Wills and Judge Pursuivant discuss lycanthropy and ectoplasm, with Pursuivant presenting books by Charles Richet and Montague Summers to argue that werewolves are real and can be explained through materialization.
What happens
Talbot Wills and Judge Pursuivant discuss lycanthropy and ectoplasm, with Pursuivant presenting books by Charles Richet and Montague Summers to argue that werewolves are real and can be explained through materialization. He draws parallels between werewolf lore and psychic phenomena, challenging Wills' skepticism and ultimately offering him a Bible for comfort.
Themes in this chapter
Science vs. Superstition
The chapter contrasts scientific investigation of ectoplasm with superstitious beliefs about werewolves, as Pursuivant attempts to reconcile both through materialization theory.
Transformation and Duality
The discussion of werewolves and ectoplasm centers on shape-shifting and the duality of human and beast forms, with Pursuivant arguing that the beast-substance is a material exudation.
The Power of Belief and Ritual
Pursuivant suggests that faith (e.g., in a crucifix or Bible) and brave confrontation can dispel the werewolf form, paralleling ritualistic protections against supernatural evil.
Characters to notice
- Talbot Wills
The narrator and skeptic, engages in a debate with Judge Pursuivant about werewolves and ectoplasm.
- Keith Pursuivant
The judge presents evidence from books on psychical research and lycanthropy, arguing for the reality of werewolves through ectoplasmic materialization.
Key passages
“To a terrified victim he is doom itself. But to a brave adversary, facing and fighting him—”
The werewolf appears invincible to a frightened person, but a courageous opponent can overcome it.
Pursuivant summarizes the power dynamic between victim and adversary in werewolf encounters.
“the shape of the werewolf will be removed if he be reproached by name as a werewolf, or if again he be thrice addressed by his Christian name, or struck three blows on the forehead with a knife, or that three drops of blood should be drawn.”
The werewolf's form can be dispelled by naming it, using its Christian name three times, or drawing three drops of blood.
Pursuivant quotes werewolf lore to illustrate how the beast-substance can be banished.