The Art of Urban Legends 

Urban legends are the modern version of folklore stories, which are unusual and often humorous. These stories primarily revolve around themes or characters and may include paranormal events. 

“In my opinion, the urban legends reveal the things society fears. Urban legends vary by how society interprets them, specifically the values and fears,” states Deerfield Beach High School freshman Allison Matute Moncada.

Some key characteristics are that they are believable and have details that make them seem plausible. They can also appear repeatedly in history and have cultural roots, being inspired by actual events. Most urban legends evoke fear and uneasiness, involving supernatural situations. Myths may include morals or lessons for the reader to learn and be more cautious.

Urban legends have a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece, with tales like that of Icarus and Daedalus and the story of Romeo and Juliet, a tragic tale of forbidden love. Urban legends have taken on eerie forms, including the Skinwalkers, shapeshifting creatures from Native American folklore believed to possess the ability to transform into various animals. Bigfoot, the elusive ape-like creature rumored to roam the forests of North America, has become a symbol of cryptozoology. Area 51, a highly classified U.S. Air Force facility in Nevada, has been the subject of countless conspiracy theories and speculation regarding extraterrestrial life and advanced technology.

“Urban legends continue to survive because they spread to multiple people quickly, especially with modern technology. Urban legends can thrive a lot easier than they used to.” Allison added.

Urban legends can be categorized into many different genres. These folklore stories include crime, medicine, the internet, and the paranormal. When it comes to crime, stories can be fictional or based on a true story, yet exaggerated. Medical folklore revolves around ailments, remedies, and treatments. Paranormal legends, however, involve supernatural figures and events. They lack evidence but have groups of believers. They become an important part of culture and even childhood.

Written by Micah Noel | Graphic Designed by Micah Noel

Published September 4, 2025 | ePathfinder | Perspectives