How Colonization Changed the Aswang | Reclaiming Philippine Folklore

What is an aswang, and why does it still frighten people across the Philippines? In this episode, Karl looks at Philippine mythology through its most notorious creature. He covers the many types of aswang, the misconceptions around them, and how centuries of colonization changed the way Filipinos understand their own folklore.Karl explains how myths shape communal fears, hold communities together, and form cultural identity. He shows how diverse ethnolinguistic traditions are across the archipelago, and he explores how scholars and practitioners are working to reconstruct pre-colonial beliefs. He also considers how movies, TV, and pop culture have reshaped the aswang, and why it matters to approach indigenous myths and practices with respect.📌 Chapters00:00 Introduction to Philippine Mythology and the Aswang03:49 Cultural and Societal Fear of the Aswang09:00 Types and Characteristics of Aswang Creatures15:11 Historical Influence of Colonization on Folklore19:58 Folklore as a Tool for Community and Identity26:09 Reconstructing Pre-Colonial Beliefs and Traditions29:58 Media, Popular Culture, and the Perception of Myth34:53 Respecting and Reconnecting with Indigenous MythsIf you enjoyed this conversation, like, subscribe, and share your own aswang stories in the comments. Which region’s version did you grow up hearing?#Aswang #PhilippineMythology #FilipinoFolklore #PreColonialPhilippines #FilipinoCulture #Manananggal #PhilippineHistory #decolonize Contact Karl Gaverza@phspirits - both Facebook and Instagramphspirits@gmail.com

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