What was the significance of the pentagram?
In An American Werewolf in London, Jack notices a pentagram on the wall of Slaughtered Lamb. But it was never elaborated what it has to do with the werewolf and why it made everyone in the pub so silent. Who made that sign or what was it's importance? Was it to indicate voodoo or some other kind of magic involved in the werewolf mystery? Was that ever addressed in any extended media/sequels etc?
Best Answer
The pentagram, especially in the form where it is inscribed inside a circle (a pentacle), is in European folklore a symbol which repels evil spirits and demons and protects its wearers. There are a plethora of symbols and rituals which have similar purposes which can be a bit confusing for people from other cultures.
It is also an old belief (which is shared by many cultures) that once you are talking or even thinking about evil things or draw interest to something to which they belong, you are luring them to the talker because they feel that someone is talking about them, You know who I am talking about, He who must not be named, right? While the hostile reaction of the pub people is exaggerated (it's a horror movie), superstitious people will be dismissive against people who are in their view challenging fate.
Pictures about "What was the significance of the pentagram?"
What is the significance of the 5 pointed star?
The pentagram is commonly accepted as a symbol of protection and exorcism, driving away evil and other unwanted energies and entities.What does a circle with a star in the middle mean?
Paganism: The pentacle is a five-pointed star, or pentagram, contained within a circle. The five points of the star represent the four classical elements, along with a fifth element, which is typically either Spirit or Self, depending on your tradition. Sikhism: The symbol or emblem of Sikhism is known as the Khanda.What does the 6 point star mean?
The six-pointed symbol is commonly referred to as the Star of David, a reference to the Biblical king and his legendary "shield." (There are more complicated interpretations of the symbol based on the beliefs of Jewish mystics, but you can read more about those here.)How many sides does a pentagram have?
A regular pentagram can be constructed outside a regular pentagon by extending its 5 sides. Extend each side of the pentagon in such a way that they intersect each other as shown.Why The Pentacle is Iconic
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Brett Sayles, Brett Sayles, Brett Sayles, Brett Sayles