Re. the Pied Piper article, c. 1300 the inscription says "It is 100 years since our children left" - One explanation is the Children's Crusade of 1212 AD. Not as fun admittedly but makes sense.
That’s an interesting angle! The Children’s Crusade theory definitely strips away the supernatural creepiness but adds a whole new layer of historical tragedy. Imagine if the ‘Pied Piper’ wasn’t a literal figure but a metaphor for recruiters leading kids to a doomed journey. Kinda eerie in its own way—history has a way of being just as unsettling as folklore. Still, part of me likes the idea of an actual Piper playing some cursed tune…
I've heard another theory, but this one looks much better 🤔 Personally, the Pied Piper always reminded me of the "musician" character that was sometimes included into medieval "Dance Macabre" paintings. Those were usually said to be inspired by the plague.
That’s an interesting take! I always thought the Pied Piper had a bit of a ‘grim reaper in disguise’ vibe—leading people away, never to return. But the Dance Macabre connection makes a lot of sense! The whole idea of ‘dancing to death’ is creepy enough on its own. Imagine if the Piper’s tune was actually spreading the plague… now that’s nightmare fuel!
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That’s an interesting angle! The Children’s Crusade theory definitely strips away the supernatural creepiness but adds a whole new layer of historical tragedy. Imagine if the ‘Pied Piper’ wasn’t a literal figure but a metaphor for recruiters leading kids to a doomed journey. Kinda eerie in its own way—history has a way of being just as unsettling as folklore. Still, part of me likes the idea of an actual Piper playing some cursed tune…
I've heard another theory, but this one looks much better 🤔 Personally, the Pied Piper always reminded me of the "musician" character that was sometimes included into medieval "Dance Macabre" paintings. Those were usually said to be inspired by the plague.