Throughout history, foxes have held a prominent place in the folklore and mythology of various cultures, embodying qualities of cunning, transformation, and mystique. In the UK, foxes have been entwined with witchcraft and superstition, frequently viewed as symbols of magic and shape-shifting. Their elusive nature and intelligence have made them subjects of fascination and fear, leading to a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the complex relationships between humans, animals, and the supernatural.
One of the earliest historical records of black foxes in Europe can be found in the works of the Roman naturalist and philosopher Pliny the Elder. In his book "Naturalis Historia," written in the 1st century AD, Pliny mentions the existence of black foxes in what is now modern-day Germany. He describes them as a rare variation of the common red fox. Pliny's observations indicate that black foxes were known and recognized during ancient times.
Furthermore, in medieval Europe, black foxes were mentioned in various folklore and literature. For example, in the medieval Icelandic saga called VatnsdælaSaga which dates back to the 13th century, there is a reference to a black fox as a rare and prized animal. These early records demonstrate that black foxes were recognized and acknowledged in Europe throughout history, albeit primarily in the context of folklore and literature.
It is important to note that these historical records may not provide detailed scientific information about the genetics or distribution of black foxes, but they indicate the awareness of their existence in European regions during different time periods.
Russian Folklore: Russian folklore features the black fox as a cunning and intelligent creature. In some tales, the black fox is depicted as a shape-shifter that can take on various forms, including that of a beautiful woman. It often serves as a test for the main characters, challenging their wits and virtue. Baron von Münchhausen is also associated with the tales of a black fox he was famed to have hunted. The silver or black fox is also depicted on the coat of arms of the city of Totma in the Vologda region, and the city of Surgut, with a film made in its honour. As well as on the coat of arms of Salekhard and is a symbol of the capital of Yamal. It represents intelligence, cunning and fortitude and is said to be dedication to the fur currency of the 14-15th centuries.
Scandinavian Folklore: Scandinavian folklore includes stories of black foxes associated with magic and transformation. It is believed that if a person catches a black fox and can hold onto it until sunrise, they will be granted a wish or gain special powers. Black foxes are also associated with the spirit world and are sometimes seen as omens or guides.
Fox in Celtic Mythology: Though not as prominent as in some other cultures, the fox in Celtic mythology is symbolic of cunning and guidance. It was often considered a guide through the mystical or unseen realms, helping humans navigate the complexities of life or the spirit world. This aligns with broader beliefs in the magical or mystical nature of animals in Celtic paganism.
British Pubs and Signage: The Black Fox public house in Hazelmere sits in a region known for its melanistic fox population. The Silver Fox public house in Taverham was named after the fur farm in the region. The village of Cowlinge unveiled its sign on 17th June 2000 as part of the village Millennium celebrations. The sign depicts several of the rural crafts and businesses that Cowlinge has had over the centuries before, including a fox to depict the silver fox farm that used to be in the village. Lastly, the Silver Fox Cafe, once frequented by the Beatles, is situated at an old silver fox farm.
British Heraldry: Lord Holland, born Henry Edward Fox in 1773, was a British politician and member of the Whig party known for his progressive views and contributions to liberal reforms in the 19th century. The "Fox heraldry" refers to the coat of arms associated with the Fox family, particularly linked to Charles James Fox, a prominent Whig leader and Lord Holland's uncle, symbolizing their noble lineage and political significance.
Political Symbolism: The Corpus Cristi College had a tradition of keeping a fox chained in an outer courtyard as a reminder of its founder. This practice might symbolize the college's heritage and its connection to Bishop Fox. Winchester College - The Wykehamical Foundations, also kept foxes, "from the middle of the seventeenth century for the best part of two hundred years."
Foxes and Superstition in the UK
The continued exploration below, delves into the myths surrounding black and silver foxes, particularly their connections to witchcraft in the UK, highlighting the intriguing symbolism and cultural significance these creatures have carried through the ages.
Some of the key associations include:
Foxes as Familiars: In English and Scottish witchcraft lore, foxes were sometimes believed to be the familiars of witches. Familiars were animals that assisted witches in their magical practices, often being linked to shape-shifting or possessing mystical abilities. The red fox, in particular, could be a cunning and sly ally, aiding witches in spying on their enemies or gathering information.
Shape-shifting and the Fox: One of the most common themes in British folklore involves witches transforming into animals, and the fox is often one of these animals. Witches were thought to take on the form of a fox to evade capture, cast spells, or carry out mischief. The fox's intelligence and ability to move unseen made it a perfect symbol for those practising magic or witchcraft.
Fox as a Trickster: The fox’s cunning nature is frequently highlighted in British and Celtic folklore. Similar to the trickster role in Native American or other global traditions, the fox in the UK represents cunning, deception, and adaptability. These qualities made the fox both feared and admired, particularly in rural areas where foxes were known for outwitting farmers or hunters.
Witch Marks and Fox Fur: In the British Isles, particularly during the witch trials, certain animals, including foxes, were linked to witchcraft through their markings. Black or unusually marked foxes, such as those with silver or white fur, were sometimes seen as portents of bad luck, curses, or witches in disguise. A silver fox, being rare and striking, may have been regarded with suspicion or awe due to its unusual appearance.
Druids and Foxes: According to the Druidic tradition, it is associated with cunning, luck, and magic. The Druids considered the black fox to be magical because it allowed them to pass over boundaries which most humans could not. Some druids wore a black fox symbol around their neck or on their clothing which was believed to make them invincible to harm and supernatural beings.
Omens of Fortune and Misfortune
In British folklore, foxes are steeped in superstition, with their appearances often interpreted as significant omens. For some communities, a fox sighting could symbolise guidance and protection, while for others, it might forewarn of bad luck.
Foxes as Omens: In various parts of England, seeing a fox—especially a black or unusual fox—was often considered an omen of coming change or trouble. In some regions, a fox running through a village was seen as a sign that a witch was nearby, particularly if it acted strangely or appeared at unusual times.
Positive Signs: In certain regions, especially those with strong connections to nature, seeing a fox—particularly at dawn or dusk—was viewed as a positive sign or a good omen. These times of day are seen as transitional periods where the boundaries between the natural and supernatural blur, leading to interpretations of fox sightings as messages from the spirit world.
Good Fortune: Additionally, some communities believed that if a fox visited a home or its surroundings, it might bring good fortune or signify an upcoming change for the better.
This duality in fox-related superstitions illustrates the complex relationship humans have with these enigmatic creatures, where a single animal can embody both positive and negative connotations depending on cultural context and circumstance.
Witchcraft and Fox Legends in the UK
In British folklore, foxes are often associated with witchcraft and omens, embodying mystery and the supernatural. However, sightings of unusual foxes, particularly black ones, have been interpreted as signs of supernatural foxes, fearsome and almost impossible to hunt.
The Black Fox of Exmoor: There are legends of a black fox haunting the moors of Exmoor. This creature was said to be untouchable and was regarded as a supernatural being rather than a natural animal. Similar to the black fox of the Narragansett myths, this British black fox was seen as an elusive and otherworldly creature, possibly linked to local witchcraft or folklore about malevolent spirits.
Seeing the Unseen: In British folklore, foxes were believed to have the power to perceive the invisible, sensing things beyond the natural world, such as spirits or witches. This ability made them deeply connected to witchcraft and magic. Foxes were often seen as mediators between the human world and the supernatural, able to detect and even interact with forces that ordinary humans could not perceive.
The Greyhound Fox: The now-extinct "greyhound fox" was a rare type fox in England, considered a mighty trophy of the hunting elite, noted for its grey coat, unusual size, and ability to hunt sheep. In folklore, this elusive creature was said to be nearly impossible to catch, evading even the fastest of hunters. Its swiftness and mysterious nature led to many hunting legends.
Summary
Foxes hold a prominent place in British folklore, consistently evoking a sense of mystery and magic. Their associations with cunning and intelligence, combined with their ties to the supernatural and witchcraft, make them compelling figures in UK myths. Often viewed as intermediaries between the natural and mystical realms, foxes represent not only the complexities of human belief but also the allure of the unknown.
Their elusive nature and intriguing behaviours have solidified their status as fascinating creatures within the rich tapestry of British legends.
