The Face In The Mirror

If you like scary stories and urban legends, you have probably heard of at least one story out of the thousands about Bloody Mary. The Bloody Mary myth has always been one of the most popular myths in the United States and continues to be told in tons of different ways. Although each town has an entirely different version of the story of Blood Mary, like most legends, Bloody Mary has it’s roots in true facts.

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In an article from Discovery News, an online database, the explanations of what happens when Mary is summoned is discussed. The author of the article explains how, “The image of Mary will simply appear in the mirror, dripping with blood. Others say that you will see your own reflection, but blood will begin to drip from the top of the mirror, so it looks like you are covered in blood. Still others say that Mary will suddenly appear in the mirror, then lunge out and scratch your face, leaving deep bloody claw marks” (Benjamin Radford Discovery News). 

This excerpt from the article demonstrates the importance of all the different versions of Bloody Mary and how no one truly knows what really happens. It shows how in different places, there are different beliefs. Different cultures take certain myths more seriously. This helps me to believe that where we live and what we practice has a big impact on the myths and legends we believe.

Benjamin Radford then goes on to explain how, “The truth is that, after researching the subject extensively, interviewing paramedics who have seen Bloody Mary’s gory handiwork first-hand  — and also grisly autopsy results — I have a pretty good idea what happens when Bloody Mary attacks. But it’s so disturbing and horrible that my editors will not allow me to describe it” (Discovery News).

After reading about how Radford gathered his information from people who actually experienced Bloody Mary first hand, it makes him more reliable and leads me to become more curious about this legend. Although there is some reliable explanations, I don’t really think there is any real proof that the myth of Bloody Mary is true.

Throughout the fact-filled article, Benjamin Radford reiterates the fact that, “There are many versions of the story, and the details change depending on the location, culture and era of those searching for her” Discovery News).

This excerpt from the article shows how certain cultures’ beliefs impact what they think about different myths. It is important because it demonstrates the different opinions people have towards famous legends such as Bloody Mary. To me, this myth becomes more and more unbelievable as I read about it because there are so many suggestions and predictions and so-called “stories” that have no proof.

FUTURE RESEARCH

1. Has any proof of Bloody Mary been found?

2. What influenced this myth to be so popular in relation to others?

3. How can we tell what is real and what is fake about this legend?
4. What is the psychology of myths---what makes people believe them?