Familiars in mythology, legends and history

Animals have always played a special role in human life, becoming not only companions but also guides to the world of spirits, magic and religion. One of the most interesting aspects of this interaction are familiars - mystical animals, which in different cultures are associated with magic and the occult.

Origin of the concept of familiars

The word ‘familiar’ comes from the Latin ‘familiarius’, which means ‘domestic’ or ‘intimate’. In medieval Europe, familiars were associated with sorcerers and witches, who believed that these animals could serve as servants, assistants and even messengers from the otherworld. Familiars could take many forms, from familiar pets such as cats and dogs to rare and marvellous creatures such as snakes, sparrows and even fantastical creatures.

Familiars in different cultures

In many cultures, familiars personified a helper spirit that could grant magical powers to their master. They were present in various cultures and areas including Sumer, ancient civilisations of the Middle East and Babylon. They are mentioned in many sources of classical literature such as the works of Shakespeare, Pogorelsky and Gogol. Familiars were often depicted in engravings and drawings of the time. Thus, familiars have a rich history and cultural heritage in the traditions of the indigenous peoples of North America there is the concept of a totem, an animal spirit that protects and guides a person in his or her life. In this context, familiars can be seen as similar to totems, representing certain qualities and powers.

In the Slavs, cats and dogs were the most common familiars, while in medieval Europe familiars were often associated with crows and wolves. One of the most famous forms of familiars is the black cat, which was considered a symbol of witchcraft and secret knowledge. It was believed that familiars could take on human form to interact with the world. Some sources indicate that familiars may have had special skills such as fortune telling or mind reading. In this sense, familiars became a symbol of power and wisdom that mages could use to achieve their goals.

Influence on art and literature

Familiars left a bright trace in art and literature. They have become the heroes of numerous works, from folklore to modern novels and films. In such works, familiars are often portrayed as faithful companions of their masters, capable of amazing deeds and magical transformations.

To some extent, even the owls in Harry Potter can be considered as familiars - it is not without reason that each of them is affectionately attached to its master and serves as a ‘reflection’ of his character. And Honeysuckle, Hermione's cat, is a real battle buddy, guarding the girl and her friends from evil charms and enemies. From the moment he appears on the pages of the book, he immediately gets very close to the mistress, sweeps away all the boundaries and comfortably settles in her personal space. Hermione is happy about it, but Ron Weasley is desperately pissed off by the cat, as he tries to grab his ‘rat’, which actually turns out to be a converted traitor-mage, which the cat feels perfectly well, unlike Weasley.

In the same way, ‘d;mons’ - the companions of the heroes of the book The Golden Compass - appear as Familiars. Here Familiars are parts of people: materialisations of their souls. To separate such an animal from its master is one of the greatest atrocities one can commit. It is worse than cutting off a hand, a leg or even a head.The connection between a familiar and its master is usually very strong, and it can be broken only by killing one of them. But even in this case, the person becomes alive only half alive. After all, it is impossible to live without a part of your soul.

An illustration of the idea of how the human is transformed into an animal unfolds before the reader. Or to put it more precisely, visualised. It is not without reason that in Pullman's world the children's familiars have no permanent form. They have not yet decided who to be, have not yet entered the force, have not passed the very threshold of initiation that allows you to say, ‘So this is what you are!’

On the one hand, it's very convenient. Just one look at the surname of the interlocutor, and you can form an idea of his mental qualities, willpower, cunning... On the other hand, it is dangerous. You have to constantly take care of your surname, to protect not only yourself, but also him in a fight, to suffer, because there is an absolute lever of influence of a man - his animal. Weakness is the reverse side of strength. Recall Nagaina and Voldemort - it was in the snake that he hid a shard of his soul. Killing Nagaina also weakened the one-who-shall-not-be-named.

One of the most touching moments in The Golden Compass is when the polar bear passes off the girl as his familiar, just so he can believe for a second: I'm just like humans. I have my own familiar - look everyone! Demonstrating a soul is much more visual than claiming to have one.

Modern perception of familiars

Today, the concept of familiars has taken on a new meaning. With the growing interest in spiritual practices, many people are beginning to see their pets as familiars again. Pet owners often feel a connection with their pets, experiencing them as more than just a favourite creature.

This perception can serve as a reminder to cherish wildlife and understand the bond that exists between humans and their ‘brothers of lesser’. It emphasises the importance of taking responsibility for animals and their welfare in our lives.

Conclusion

Familiars are more than just mythological creatures. They serve as a reminder of the deep connections between humans and nature, our responsibility for the world around us, and the importance of cherishing and respecting all creatures on this planet. In today's world, where interaction with nature is becoming increasingly remote, a return to an understanding of friendship with animals as familiars can be the basis for a more harmonious existence with the world around us.