Exploring the Cultural Roots of Werewolves in Plaid Flannel Shirts
The depiction of werewolves in plaid flannel shirts in illustrations and comics has become a beloved trope in popular culture. This phenomenon can be traced back to a combination of cultural associations, aesthetic choices, and the rugged outdoorsy image that flannel represents. This article delves into the reasons behind this unique and enduring visual choice.
Ruggedness and Masculinity
Flannel shirts are often associated with rugged, masculine characters, and this aligns well with the traditional portrayal of werewolves as strong and primal beings. This clothing choice emphasizes their connection to nature and raw power. The stereotype of a werewolf as a wild, untamed creature transforming into a monstrous being mirrors the toughness and resilience associated with flannel-wearing outdoorsmen.
Folklore and Rural Settings
Many werewolf legends and stories originate from rural or wilderness settings. Flannel shirts evoke a sense of the outdoors, fitting the narrative of a creature that transforms in the wild. This attire helps to ground the supernatural being in a relatable human context, making the story more accessible and engaging. The rustic and somewhat humble appearance of flannel adds to the relatable nature of the werewolf.
Visual Contrast and Aesthetic Appeal
The checkered pattern of flannel provides a striking visual contrast against the more monstrous features of a werewolf. This contrast makes the character more relatable and human before their transformation. It helps to humanize the werewolf, allowing readers and viewers to see a more approachable and down-to-earth character beyond their monstrous form.
Cultural References and Nostalgia
The choice of plaid flannel shirts for werewolves reflects a blend of cultural symbolism, narrative needs, and visual aesthetics that resonate with audiences. These shirts evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity, making the werewolf character more approachable. This can help balance the horror elements of the story, providing a sense of reassurance to readers and viewers who might be afraid of werewolves.
The Origins of the Trope
One possible origin for this trope can be traced back to the 1958 movie Monster on the Campus. Although the creature in that movie is not a werewolf but a professor devolved into an apelike caveman, the look is very similar. Plaid shirts are typical of woodsy outdoorsmen, such as lumberjacks and mountain men. These are wilder men who meet nature and wrestle it into submission. It is natural that such a man might tussle with werewolves and get bit.
Conclusion
The depiction of werewolves in plaid flannel shirts is not just a random choice; it is a cultural symbol that serves multiple purposes. From reinforcing the rugged and masculine image of werewolves, to evoking a sense of the outdoors and providing a striking visual contrast, this choice has become a defining visual trope in werewolf stories. Whether it is nostalgia, visual appeal, or a reflection of cultural stereotypes, the plaid flannel shirt remains an enduring and integral part of werewolf lore.