Vampires have been portrayed in popular culture for centuries as mysterious and frightening creatures. But what are some things that real vampires would actually dislike or want to avoid? Here are 7 things that vampires hate:
Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight is undoubtedly one of the biggest weaknesses for vampires. Direct sunlight can severely burn and eventually kill them. This is why vampires are traditionally depicted as only coming out at night and staying in dark, enclosed spaces during the day.
Garlic
Many vampire legends state that garlic repels vampires. It’s thought that the strong scent of garlic overwhelms a vampire’s heightened senses. Garlic may also remind vampires of death and decay. Either way, vampires are believed to have an aversion to garlic in all its forms.
Crosses and Holy Symbols
Religious symbols like crosses, crucifixes, and holy water are said to repel vampires due to their evil and unholy nature. Vampires are creatures associated with devilish forces, so sacred objects can weaken them. Touching holy items may even burn vampire flesh.
Mirrors
Vampires allegedly cannot stand to look at their own reflection. Some reasons given are that mirrors show a vampire’s true evil nature or soulless being. Other lore suggests mirrors reflect sunlight that can harm vampires or that they are unable to see themselves since they don’t technically have a soul.
Wooden Stakes
A wooden stake through the heart is one of the most common ways to kill a vampire. Vampires understandably fear and try to avoid wooden stakes at all costs. Other commonly used items to defeat vampires include wooden arrows and daggers.
Silver
Silver is traditionally viewed as a pure metal with holy powers. Weapons made of silver, like bullets or blades, can therefore be especially deadly to vampires. Touching silver may burn their skin as well. Vampires steer clear of silver to protect themselves.
Wild Roses and Thorns
Some folklore states that wild roses, especially ones growing on holy ground near churches, can be fatal to vampires. Falling into a bush of wild roses may even kill them instantly. The thorns are thought to possibly represent crosses. In any case, vampires do their best to avoid these flowers.
Running Water
According to some legends, vampires cannot cross running water like rivers or streams. It’s possible this is because running water symbolizes baptism and the washing away of sins. The purifying nature of flowing water may weaken or repel vampires.
Conclusion
While fictional vampires have their weaknesses, a true fear of sunlight, garlic, and holy symbols would seemingly make living any kind of normal existence nearly impossible. However, these mythical vulnerabilities give us ways to fight back against powerful creatures of the night in the stories we love. The legend of vampires reflects humanity’s desire to ward off evil forces through the power of light, faith, and purity.