Faceless stranger reveals true form at startling moment

A motif · Sight and sound · Thompson F511.0.1, Marvels

4 figures carry it.

Nearby in Thompson's index

Motifs this bestiary also holds from F511.0 and below. The codes are the index's; the names and counts are ours.

F511.0.1 Headless body 4 figures
F511.0.1 Floating detached head with organs 1 figure
F511.0.2 Oversized head disproportionate to body 5 figures

Carried by

At first glance, these beings appear as ordinary humans, often taking the form of a familiar face or figure. However, upon closer inspection or at a moment of their choosing, they reveal their true nature: a completely smooth, featureless face devoid of eyes, nose, mouth, or any distinguishing characteristics.

Melusine

spies on her through a hole bored in the door and sees her serpent form while she bathes

Lamia

serpent-women who beguile young men before revealing their monstrous nature

Mujina

It might approach a lone traveler on a dark road, appearing as a friendly stranger, only to suddenly reveal its true nature at the most startling moment.