User:Bearsona/Human disguise
The concept of a non-human posing in human disguise is a common convention in science fiction, mythology, and religious texts. The concept of gods and angels taking on a human form occurs as far back as Ancient Egypt and Hebrew mythology.
Mythology edit
In pagan religions, deities very often took on the form of a human disguise for various tasks.[1]
In the Torah, angels only appeared to men in a human disguise, and never in their true form.[1]
In Japanese mythology, Kitsune, or legendary foxes, often take on a human disguise; most frequently taking the form of an elderly man, attractive women, or child.[2] Kitsune can also replicate the exact appearance of a specific person.[3] In medieval Japan, the belief that any beautiful women met alone at dusk was a Kitsune was prevalent.[4] In some legends, Kitsune cannot fully transform, but maintain a tale or other foxlike characteristic.[5] Some Kitsune in disguise prey on humans through sexual contact, much like the succubus.[6]
Science fiction edit
Science fiction alien invasions generally use one of two plot methods. When aliens do not attack the planet directly, they discreetly invade by taking on human disguises.[7] This common plot device manifests itself in books and films like Invasion of the Body Snatchers.[7]
The film Men in Black and its sequel Men in Black II deal with numerous aliens who take on human disguises in order to live and travel on Earth without causing disturbance.[8][9]
Notes edit
References edit
- Cornwell, Tim (6 July 1997). "There's no business like UFO business". The Independent. Retrieved 30 October 2009.
- Hall, Jamie (2003). Half Human, Half Animal: Tales of Werewolves and Related Creatures. Bloomington, Indiana: AuthorHouse. ISBN 1-4107-5809-5.
- Hamel, Frank (1969). Human Animals: Werewolves & Other Transformations. New Hyde Park (Village), New York: University Books. ISBN 0-7661-6700-3.
- Hearn, Lafcadio (2005). Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan. Project Gutenberg.
- Howe, Desson (5 July 1997). "'Men in Black': Alien Nation". The Washington Post. Retrieved 30 October 2009.
- Holden, Stephen (31 May 1996). "Is It Getting Hot in Here, Or Is It an Alien Invasion?". The New York Times. New York City. Retrieved 30 October 2009.
- Nozaki, Kiyoshi (1961). Kitsuné — Japan's Fox of Mystery, Romance, and Humor. Tokyo: The Hokuseidô Press.
- The Philosophical Dictionary. G. H. Evans. 1830. Retrieved 29 October 2009.
- Tyler, Royall (1987). Japanese Tales. New York City: Pantheon Books. ISBN 0-394-75656-8.