Night Guest Tintin: The Origins of a Demonic Character in the Folklore and Archaeological Materials of Ecuador

Abstract

Purpose of this research is the analysis of archaeological, ethnographical data devoted, first of all, to the demonic personage Tintin, typical for manteña-huancavilca beliefs in the coastal zone, and to the image of bat, and bat-like creatures in modern provincial folklore of Ecuadorian Indians.Results. A review was conducted of a wide range of archaeological materials (sculptures, images on pottery, seals, ceramic masks and whistles) known from the pre-Hispanic cultures that existed on the territories of modern Ecuador, Colombia, Peru and Mesoamerica. The article clearly demonstrates that Tintin is the reflection of the long-term mythological tradition which connects bats with the Underworld, shaman’s practices, rituals and fertility.Conclusion. Tintin is one of the multiple anthropo-zoomorphic characters connected with the Pre-Columbian mythological systems of ancient cultures in South America. The peculiarities of bats biological behavior (nocturnal activity, living in caves and specific sound production) are the reason why they are associated with the dark side of the Universe. from the other hand, help to keep the demonic image of Tintin in colonial period and today.