Bakeneko
From Japanese myths, Bakeneko is a cat that has lived long enough to become magical. It can shape-shift into a human and seeks revenge for any wrongs it suffered.
At a glance
- Tradition
- Japanese folklore
- Trait family
- The Firebirds
Near this figure
Traits
Read from the figure's description, which a model wrote. Open "why" for the sentence a trait came from.
Form
- Shapeshifts human animal
why
Once they attain this mystical status, Bakeneko gain the power to shape-shift, often taking on human form to blend in with society or to carry out their intentions undetected.
Offensive powers
- Vengeful pursuit
why
They are known to seek retribution against those who have wronged them or other cats, displaying a complex understanding of morality and a desire for karmic balance.
- Possession
why
Some tales also describe them as having the power to curse humans, create illusions, or possess people.
Utility powers
- Shapeshifting
why
Once they attain this mystical status, Bakeneko gain the power to shape-shift, often taking on human form to blend in with society or to carry out their intentions undetected.
- Resurrection
why
These may include the ability to speak human languages, walk on their hind legs, manipulate objects with their paws as if they were hands, and even raise the dead by jumping over corpses.
- Speech
why
These may include the ability to speak human languages, walk on their hind legs, manipulate objects with their paws as if they were hands, and even raise the dead by jumping over corpses.
Roles
Judged from the works' own entries, not from the description. Carries: the figure holds the role. Meets: the role is in its stories, held by something it meets.
- Trickster carries both readings
1 citation
- Theresa Bane, Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore, s.v. "Bakeneko."