The History Behind El Silbón: Exploring Historical and Psychological Elements to the Urban Legend

Abstract The urban legend of El Silbón has been present in Venezuelan folklore for centuries. Even though the story is predominantly regarded as a ghost story to scare children, it hides many elements from the historical context of when it started to be popularized around the country. With a beginning in Los Llanos (The Plains) of Venezuela, El Silbón reflects the effect that factors such as the Independence War and economic disparity had on the population and exemplifies the purpose of Oral Tradition of sharing communal experiences and values with the future generations.