National Devils Day

Mischievous person holding a pitchfork, dressed in red and black, fire and brimstone background.. — National devils day illustration

Grab your pitchforks and put on your horns, because it's National Devils Day! Prepare for an infernal celebration filled with mischief and a whole lot of devilish fun.

When is Devils Day?

It's national devils day on the 11th April.

The Origins of National Devils Day

Every year on April 11th, we pay tribute to the legendary tricksters, the devilish beings that have captivated human imagination for centuries. National Devils Day is a day dedicated to all things mischievous, mysterious, and maybe a little bit naughty. Whether you believe in their existence or not, there's no denying the impact devils and demons have had on popular culture and folklore.

Internet History

Back in 2016, the internet was ablaze with mentions of National Devils Day. People from all walks of life shared their favorite devilish tales, from encounters with mischievous imps to legendary battles between angels and demons. The date, April 11th, was chosen as a nod to the numerical association with the binary representation of 666, a number often associated with the devil himself.

The Devil's Advocate

While some may view devils as purely evil creatures, others argue there's a bit of devilry in all of us. National Devils Day encourages us to embrace our mischievous side, to have a little fun and maybe even play a harmless prank or two. It's a day to let loose and let your inner imp run wild.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of the devil varies greatly across different cultures? In some mythologies, such as in Christian belief, he is depicted as the ultimate evil. However, in other traditions, such as ancient Norse mythology, the entities associated with darkness and trickery are seen as more mischievous and unpredictable rather than purely evil. So if you ever find yourself face-to-face with a devil, remember, their intentions might not be as malicious as you think!

History behind the term 'Devils'

1300s

Origin in Medieval Europe

The term 'devils' originated in the 1300s in Medieval Europe. During this time, the concept of devils and demons was deeply rooted in Christian theology and folklore. Devils were believed to be supernatural beings that emerged from the depths of hell and were associated with evil and temptation. They were often depicted as grotesque, horned creatures with wings, symbolizing their wickedness and malevolence.

1667

John Milton's 'Paradise Lost'

One significant milestone in the history of the term 'devils' was the publication of John Milton's epic poem 'Paradise Lost' in 1667. Milton's portrayal of devils in the poem, particularly the character of Satan, had a profound impact on popular culture and solidified the image of devils as complex, charismatic figures with tragic qualities. This nuanced portrayal of devils sparked further interest and fascination with the concept.

1830s

Devil Costume Tradition

In the 1830s, the tradition of wearing devil costumes during certain festivals and celebrations began to emerge. This tradition was influenced by both the Medieval European folklore surrounding devils and the concept of evil spirits in various cultural practices. Wearing devil costumes became popular during events like Halloween and carnival celebrations, adding a playful and theatrical element to the perception of devils.

1889

The Creation of 'The Devil's Dictionary'

In 1889, American writer Ambrose Bierce published 'The Devil's Dictionary,' a satirical dictionary that humorously redefined various words and concepts. Bierce's work included witty and often cynical definitions of terms related to devils, playing on the cultural association of devils with deception and wickedness. 'The Devil's Dictionary' became a literary classic and further contributed to the enduring fascination with the term 'devils.'

20th Century

Pop Culture and Symbolism

Throughout the 20th century, the term 'devils' continued to be a prominent fixture in popular culture. It was frequently used in literature, films, and various forms of entertainment as a symbol of rebellion, temptation, and the dark side of human nature. The portrayal of devils evolved, with depictions ranging from terrifying and malevolent creatures to charming and seductive figures, reflecting society's changing attitudes and interpretations of the term.