In the book, the devil combines older Slavic demonological motifs with the Christian idea of Satan. He often has a human form with a hoof, claws and small horns, but can also turn into a black dog, a he-goat, a tomcat, a raven or other animals. Legends frequently involve wagers with mortals, contracts signed in blood and unfinished buildings foiled by the morning crowing of a cockerel.
Where it appears
Very widespread throughout Bohemia, Moravia and Slovakia.
What the old legends say
According to Czech legends, a cross, prayer, holy water and the sound of church bells were used against the devil. The morning crow of a cockerel also had great power. The most important rule is to sign no contract, promise no soul and not be lured into a wager or bargain.
Sources of the original atlas Tajemná místa · page 22
This legend preserves a folk tale. Its motifs do not constitute evidence of supernatural events.
