Der Schweriner Schlossgeist Petermännchen

The Schwerin Castle spirit Petermännchen is an unusual spirit in German mythology: Obotrit god, cursed Slavic prince, medieval poltergeist, or dwarf-like court jester. In any case, he is now the house spirit of Schwerin Castle. However, he does not haunt the castle alone. Petermännchen is also a wandering spirit, living in a mountain near Schwerin, moving through underground passages, having dwellings and treasure chambers in the water, and capable of flying through the air. The little man possesses great power: he makes himself invisible, observes everything, rewards good deeds, and punishes evil ones. Additionally, he has the gift of a seer and warning, announcing terrible or beautiful events. All of this is rare, if not unique, for a single legendary figure. The various ways of redemption through which the castle spirit could regain his former shape are completely wondrous. Some are funny, even foolish, while others are eerie, incomprehensible, and downright hair-raising—in the literal sense. Perhaps the redemption of this little fellow is not even desirable, as the consequences would be catastrophic for the castle, the island, and all of Schwerin. On the other hand, if he were redeemed, he would rule the land as a just sovereign. How should one respond to the spirit's pleas for redemption? This multi-part collection of legends consists of new stories and previously published tales by the authors, the latter of which have mostly been heavily revised. This book brings together those stories that depict how Petermännchen protects, rewards, punishes, and teases.