Vanapagan

Lore

Vanapagan is a giant whom legends often classify as an unclean force. These legends suggest that these giants build hills and lakes, scatter stones and rocks. They usually live in caves, lakes, or underground; rarely is it said that they come from the underworld itself.

Other sources claim that Vanapagans engage in various crafts: blacksmithing, shoemaking, and other trades. They plow the land, hold weddings and christenings, and often invite people to their celebrations, rewarding them with gifts—for example, glowing coals that, when handled properly, turn into pieces of gold.

In stories, Vanapagans often appear foolish and naive, allowing clever people to easily deceive them. A well-known character is Kaval-Ants, who served Vanapagan and constantly outsmarted him. For instance, a fisherman might scare Vanapagan by declaring he'd net the entire lake, and the frightened giant would buy him off with gold.

Despite their sinister image, Vanapagans often get along well with people. Villagers attend their festivals, where lavish feasts are always laid out. However, at such events, it's forbidden to make the sign of the cross or recite Christian prayers; otherwise, the host might turn the food into manure.

Vanapagans compete in stone throwing and other feats. They build enormous bridges across lakes and seas, but their works usually remain unfinished. According to legends, the soul of a person who crosses such a bridge ends up with the devil.

Vanapagan is more foolish than evil. He possesses great physical strength and modest talents, but he fears the sunrise—as daylight can turn him to stone. He also dreads wolves and thunderstorms. Vanapagan lacks the greedy cunning and animosity toward people that characterize the classic image of the devil, although sometimes their portrayals overlap. Vanapagan