Shtriga

The Shtriga (Albanian definite form: Shtriga, indefinite form: Shtrigë) is a vampiric witch in Albanian folklore. The Shtriga is typically depicted as a female entity who feeds on the blood of infants, draining their life force.

Characteristics and Attributes:

• Appearance: The Shtriga is often described as an old, withered woman, sometimes with piercing eyes and disheveled hair. In some accounts, she possesses the ability to shapeshift, taking on the form of an insect, bird, or other small animal to more easily enter homes undetected.
• Victims: Infants are the primary targets of the Shtriga. The belief is that she saps their vitality, leading to sickness and, ultimately, death.
• Activity: The Shtriga is said to operate at night, sneaking into homes to prey on sleeping babies.
• Motivations: The motivations for the Shtriga's actions are rarely clearly defined, often attributed to inherent evil or a malevolent curse.

Protection Against the Shtriga:

Various methods are employed to protect against the Shtriga, including:

• Garlic: Hanging garlic around the home, particularly near cribs and windows, is believed to ward off the Shtriga.
• Crosses and Religious Symbols: Displaying religious symbols, such as crosses or icons, is thought to offer protection.
• Amulets: Wearing or placing amulets, often blessed by a religious figure, is another common protective measure.
• Rituals: Performing specific rituals, passed down through generations, can supposedly deter the Shtriga. These rituals often involve prayers, incantations, and the use of certain herbs.

Cultural Significance:

The Shtriga is a deeply ingrained figure in Albanian folklore, representing a primal fear of infant mortality and the unknown. Belief in the Shtriga, while diminishing in urban areas, persists in some rural communities, particularly when unexplained infant illnesses or deaths occur. The legend serves as a cautionary tale and a reminder of the perceived dangers lurking in the darkness. The Shtriga also figures in Albanian literature and art, often used as a symbol of evil and misfortune.