Rabbits Are Creatures of the Underworld According to Ancient Fears

FUZZY TAILS, WIDE EYES, LONG and distinguishable ears, and an ever-twitching nose—the rabbit seems fairly unassuming at first glance. Yet ancient beliefs about the Leporidae family refer to the creature as something crafty, otherworldly, and a bit spooky.

It turns out rabbits provoke an ancient fear, one that has rippled in civilizations across the globe, from ancient Egyptians to Celtic peoples. For many, it’s okay, maybe even wise, to be afraid of bunnies.