What are rats called in folklore? - briefly
In folk traditions rats are frequently labeled the plague‑bringer or a cunning trickster, sometimes called the Rat‑Man or Rat‑Lord. These titles emphasize their links to disease, theft and cleverness.
What are rats called in folklore? - in detail
Rats appear in mythic narratives under a variety of appellations that reflect their perceived characteristics and cultural functions. In many European traditions they are identified as «the pestilence bearer», a label linked to disease and famine. Celtic folklore often describes the creature as «the black messenger», emphasizing its nocturnal movements and role as an omen. Slavic tales refer to the animal as «the trickster of the underworld», attributing cunning and a connection to hidden realms.
Asian folklore assigns distinct names reflecting moral symbolism. Chinese mythology names the rat «the first of the zodiac», highlighting its status as the inaugural sign in the lunar calendar and its association with wit and survival. Japanese legends call the creature «the fire‑spirit rat», connecting it to hearth protection and the ability to avert misfortune through sacrifice.
In African oral traditions the rodent is called «the night‑shadow», a term that underscores its stealth and its function as a warning of impending danger. Among Indigenous peoples of North America, the rat—or more commonly the muskrat—is known as «the water‑keeper», a figure that safeguards waterways and teaches respect for natural resources.
These designations share common themes: disease transmission, cunning intelligence, omen‑bearing, and guardianship of essential elements. The diversity of names illustrates how societies universally recognize rats as potent symbols, yet adapt their meanings to fit specific cultural narratives.