Ælfshot

Ælfshot is a term found in Old English literature and folklore, often referring to a sudden, sharp pain or illness believed to be caused by the supernatural influence of elves or other otherworldly beings. These afflictions were typically characterized by rapid onset and intense discomfort, with symptoms ranging from localized pains to more generalized sickness. The belief in ælfshot reflects a worldview where natural phenomena and human ailments could be attributed to magical or spiritual causes.

The concept of ælfshot is present in various Anglo-Saxon texts, including medical charms and poetry, where it is described as a form of magical attack or curse. Remedies and protective measures were often sought through incantations, amulets, and specific rituals designed to ward off or counteract the elven influence. The understanding of ælfshot was part of a broader system of folk medicine and spiritual beliefs that sought to explain and manage the unpredictable aspects of life and health in medieval England. While the specific causes of these ailments were attributed to supernatural forces, the symptoms likely corresponded to recognized medical conditions that were not fully understood at the time. The term itself highlights the enduring presence of folklore and belief in magic within historical societies.