| Cannibalism | |
| Associated franchises: | Marvel Universe Texas Chainsaw Massacre |
| Associated programs: | Defiance The X-Files |
| Associated comics: | Incredible Hulk Vol 2 |
| Related articles: | Cannibal; Wendigo |
Cannibalism is a dietary practice amongst living creatures who sustain themselves by consuming the flesh, blood or internal organs of members of its own species. The practice is generally frowned upon in most civilized societies. Those who engage in acts of cannibalism are referred to as cannibals. The practice of cannibalism is believed to have originated within ancient tribal communities in South America. The reasons behind cannibalism may vary. Some engage in it out of a sense of spiritual enlightenment, believing that by consuming the flesh of another human being, they in fact, absorb part of their spirit. This aspect of cannibalism can be found in some religious doctrines, including the Christian tradition of communion, in which the communion wafer is meant to symbolize the body of Jesus Christ. Cannibalism is a popular storytelling trope in many horror venues and has been popularized in several "grindhouse" films of the 1970s including The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Cannibal Ferox and Cannibal Apocalypse.
Wendigos are creatures of Native American folklore associated with the Algonquian tribe. They are said to be found in the territories of Canada as well as some of the northern coastal regions of the United States. Wendigos may appear as a monstrous figure, or as a spiritual entity that may possess others. Whether as a singular creature, or an invading presence, a wendigo satiates itself through acts of cannibalism.
Characters who engage in cannibalism[]
Accidental cannibalism[]
Every now and again some jokey jokester likes to fool people into eating human flesh, making them think that they are eating chicken or beef. These individuals are not intentionally engaging in cannibalism, but have participated in the practice nonetheless.
Creatures who engage in cannibalism[]
| Name | Source |
|---|---|
| Wendigos | Marvel Universe |
Appearances[]
Films[]
- Castle Freak
- Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III
- Revenge of Frankenstein, The
- Resident Evil
Television[]
- American Horror Story: The End - Outpost 3 administrators trick guests into eating stew made with Stu.
- Defiance: Of a Demon in My View
- The X-Files: The Jersey Devil
- The X-Files: Our Town
Comics[]
Notes[]
See also[]
- Appearances of cannibalism