In Celtic (especially Britanny) folklore , a Korrigan is a elf-like spirit.
Aka : Corrigans, Korils, Poulpikans, Teuz, Kornikaned
Nature
Etymology
Korr means dwarf and ig is a diminutive whereas the suffix an is an hypocoristic.
Description
Korrigans have beautiful hair and red flashing eyes. Sometimes depicted with two horns, the feet of a goat and claws like a cat. These little men are able to inflate to a huge size and shapeshift.
Origin
Brittany, Cornwall.
Family
There are several Korrigan species. Kornikaned dwelled in forests, Kornikaned on moors, Korils in swamps and Teuz prefer human houses whose inmates are human.
Element
Earth
Powers/Weaknesses
Despite their small size, they are stronger than 2 men. They can predict the future, change shape, and move at lightning speed. Like sirens and mermaids, they sing and comb their long hair, and they haunt fountains and waters.
They have the power of making men fall in love with them, but they then kill the ones who do. In many popular tales, they are eager to deceive the imprudent mortals who see them dancing or looking after a treasure, and fond of stealing human children, substituting them with changelings. On the night of 31st October (All Souls' Night), they are said to be lurking near dolmens, waiting for victims.
Places
Under Karnach and Plendren (French Britanny) and the cliffs along the Britanny shore.
Behaviour
Shapeshifters, thieves and villains, they rob humans and children and cast storms. Enjoy dancing all night around faerie circles and dolmen. They hate priests, churches, and especially the Virgin Mary.
Beliefs
They are sometimes described as important princesses or druidesses who were opposed to Christianity when the Apostles came to convert Brittany.