Uncovering the Evils of Lovecraftian Mythology: Cthulhu’s Creepiest Creations

Although H.P. Lovecraft was an accomplished author known for his chilling horror and sci-fi stories, he’s also the man responsible for creating a number of fictional entities in his writings, ranging from lesser beings such as the Great Old Ones to otherworldly gods like Cthulhu and Nyogtha. These monsters – collectively referred to as Lovecraftian creatures or simply “Cthulhu Mythos” due to their frequent appearances in Lovecraft’s works – have since become a staple of modern horror fiction, with many authors choosing to build upon or expand upon these original concepts. Whether you’ve read one of HP Lovecraft’s original stories or not, you probably know something about his Cthulhu monster and its otherworldly brethren. In this article, we’ll be covering everything there is to know about the Cthulhu monster and its weirdest creations; so keep reading to learn more!

What is the Cthulhu Mythos?

The Cthulhu Mythos refers to the various fictional entities and stories that involve H.P. Lovecraft’s characters and settings. The term “Cthulhu Mythos” was coined by August Derleth in his 1943 essay “The Cthulhu Mythos”, which was later republished in H.P. Lovecraft: A Biographical Sketch and Sombre Portrait, showing just how widespread this subgenre has become over the years. Most notably, the Cthulhu Mythos refers to the Great Old Ones and their offspring, who are described as god-like beings that have ruled the universe in the past and are expected to do so again. These creatures are often depicted as massive in size, with Cthulhu being the most frequently mentioned one. Since the Cthulhu Mythos draws from the writings of H.P. Lovecraft, it’s worth noting that not all of his stories are included in the Mythos. While most of his short stories and novellas are part of the Mythos, many of his larger works (such as At the Mountains of Madness) are not included.

Cthulhu: The Father of All Evil

Cthulhu is perhaps the most recognizable entity in the Cthulhu Mythos, and the one that is most frequently mentioned. Described as a massive, green-skinned octopus-like creature whose very gaze can drive someone insane, Cthulhu is often portrayed as the ruler of the underwater realm of R’lyeh, along with his “brothers”, who are also worshipped as gods by various humanoid species. In Lovecraft’s stories, Cthulhu is referred to as the “Great Cthulhu”, “High-Priest Cthulhu”, or the “Blind Idiot God”, with his worshippers often referring to him as “the great green god”.

Shoggoths

Shoggoths are strange, amorphous creatures created by the Elder Gods millions of years ago. While most of the Cthulhu Mythos creatures are inherently evil, shoggoths are neutral in nature; although they are compelled to serve their creators, they are capable of independent thought and can revolt against them. Shoggoths are usually described as dark green, fibrous beings that possess rudimentary facial features and a single, enormous eye. They are also capable of assuming any shape or form, making them incredibly useful for the Elder Gods. Shoggoths are occasionally mentioned in Lovecraft’s stories, but they’re primarily referenced in At the Mountains of Madness, where they’re depicted as being wild and feral.

Dark Young

Dark Young are one of the more interesting creations in the Cthulhu Mythos, as they have no ties to any of the Great Old Ones and are more like a unique creature unto themselves. They are described as being enormous, green-skinned beings with multiple eyes and tentacle appendages that have the ability to travel between dimensions. They are most commonly found in the forests of Earth, where they feed on the blood of animals and act as servents to the Great Old Ones (more on them later). Dark Young are often mentioned in “The Dunwich Horror”, where one is said to have been growing in a hidden location near the town of Dunwich, Massachusetts for centuries. They’re also referenced in At the Mountains of Madness, where they’re depicted as being wild and feral.

Ghasts and Night-Gaunts

Ghasts and Night-Gaunts are two creatures that are mentioned only briefly in Lovecraft’s writings, but have been featured in other stories that are part of the Cthulhu Mythos. These creatures are sometimes depicted as being related to one another, but they have wildly different appearances and natures. Whereas ghasts are massive, tentacle-covered beings that roar like an animal and feast on humans, night-gaunts are smaller and are often depicted as having bat-like wings and blood-soaked claws. Both creatures are said to be frequent companions of the Great Old Ones, and are often summoned by them to serve as mounts.

Summary

Cthulhu is an enormous, green-skinned octopus-like creature that is the ruler of R’lyeh. Shoggoths are strange, amorphous creatures that are creations of the Elder Gods. Dark Young are one of the more interesting creations in the Cthulhu Mythos, as they have no ties to any of the Great Old Ones. Ghasts and Night-Gaunts are two creatures that are mentioned only briefly in Lovecraft’s writings, but have been featured in other stories that are part of the Cthulhu Mythos. Hopefully, this article has provided you with a better understanding of the Cthulhu Mythos. With all of the different creatures and entities to keep track of, it can admittedly be quite overwhelming. But if you keep an open mind, the Mythos can be a fascinating and exciting adventure!

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