The Effects of Myths and Superstitions

`The effects of myths and superstitions are seen throughout the story. While there is some truth to at least some of the myths, the myth itself is powerful. For example, Kate tries to visit in the village but isn't welcomed. It's only later that she learns that people are reluctant to befriend anyone associated with the castle for fear that the stories are true. Kate sees this up close when the village woman accuses Kate of taking her son only to discover that he'd actually fallen in the river. The woman realizes that Kate is nothing to be feared and gives her a necklace that will keep her safe from the beings that are believed to haunt the castle. Many pilgrims visit the holy well near the castle and throw in money that they hope will appease the gods who live there. They...