Name Meaning
Nue (鵺) is the name of a legendary yokai composed of multiple animal parts and feared for bringing illness and nightmares.
- Nué = A mythical chimera-like creature
Origin
- Described in the famous epic Heike Monogatari.
- Said to have haunted the Emperor by flying overhead and inducing sickness and dread.
- Eventually shot down by the warrior Minamoto no Yorimasa.
Appearance
- Head of a monkey
- Body of a tanuki (raccoon dog)
- Limbs of a tiger
- Tail of a snake
- Voice said to be a horrifying bird-like cry
Behavior & Myths
- Causes nightmares and mysterious illnesses.
- Known to hide in dark clouds and fly at night.
- Considered an omen of calamity.
Symbolism
- Symbolizes fear of the unknown and uncontrollable forces.
- Associated with misfortune and political turmoil in ancient texts.
- Sometimes invoked in literature to portray chaos or monstrosity.
