The Value of Spooky Stories in Historical sites- why we should tell them?
Are you a history buff, or interested in supernatural stories? Then going to ruins or old historical sites and contemplating the presence of ghosts, and djinns would definitely be a fun activity for you. While scholarly works in history, are hell bent on facts, (and they should be), these narratives should also be told. Here are a few reasons why!
Add layers to the story- Sometimes, studying the size, height and length of the monument, with only facts such as who built it and why can be very dry. Understanding how a site is spooky and associated with ghosts, adds a certain fun to the story. It also adds an understanding of how the site might be old and ruined but still significant today.
Popular history- Many times, factual positivist histories can be very elitist. People have different perceptions about structures and it is important to take them into account. There is a dilemma amongst scholars of history about whether we should consider them or dismiss them. They might not be facts but supernatural elements about ruins is definitely popular and believed by many people. Adding them to the narratives of history, makes the subject more inclusive. We now add more perspectives. We may not believe them, but definitely should add them, as they are believed by people. This is important therefore.
Exciting – Let’s be honest, these stories make a monument more exciting and enjoyable to visit. One is immediately drawn to these sites, and enchanted by these tales. Walking into eerie monuments and ruins, makes it easier to believe it so. It definitely adds a perspective to our story. Knowing them is also fun to share with friends, and sometimes even scare them as a prank while going. Be careful though, believing them might make them appear and that would actually be scary!
Examples – Many stories exist today. While some places like the various cities of Delhi, is written about by William Dalrymple in his brilliant book, City of Djinns, where he discusses the myth of Djinns, others continue to remain as oral histories. They would encompass Siraj Ud Daulah’s ghost at Hazardduwari palace in Murshidabad, The ghost of Lady Metcalfe in the National library, Djinns at Khooni Darwaza, the ghost of Anne Boleyn at the Tower of London, all these are popular stories. Historical sites are incomplete without these remnants of popular memory.
