The superstition that a toad or frog entering a house brings bad luck is deeply rooted in historical beliefs about witchcraft and the association of these amphibians with malevolent forces. This belief, prevalent in earlier centuries, particularly the seventeenth and eighteenth, stems from a perception of toads and frogs as familiars or representatives of witches, indicating impending misfortune.
The historical background of this superstition is strongly connected to the witch trials and witchcraft beliefs common during the 17th and 18th centuries. During this period, toads and frogs were not simply seen as part of the natural environment; they were perceived as agents of ill fortune, extensions of a witch’s power and intention to cause harm. The appearance of these creatures within the confines of a home was taken as a clear signal that someone wished the occupants ill, having sought the aid of a witch to place a hex or curse upon them.
Cultural beliefs surrounding toads and frogs further cemented this superstition. These amphibians were commonly believed to be used by witches as ‘familiars,’ creatures connected to them through supernatural means. According to folklore, witches were even said to suckle these creatures from ‘witch marks,’ wart-like blemishes on their bodies. This association reinforced the image of toads and frogs as symbols of evil and witchcraft. Moreover, the belief that witches could shapeshift into animals, including frogs and toads, added another layer to the superstition, as any amphibian found within a home could potentially be a witch in disguise.
The evolution of this superstition over time reveals diverse interpretations and remedies. Dorset historian George Roberts, in an 1834 account, noted that toads found in houses were treated with considerable care and ejected without harm, reflecting a belief that these creatures warranted a degree of ‘veneration or awe’ due to their perceived connection to witchcraft. The ailments believed to be caused by these unwelcome guests ranged from muscle weakness to toothache, all attributed to the supposed spells cast upon the inhabitants.
Modern interpretations of this superstition are less uniform and largely dependent on individual beliefs and cultural background. While some may dismiss the notion entirely, others might still feel unease or concern upon finding a frog or toad inside their home. The remedies and actions prescribed in the 1800s varied greatly. Some believed that simply removing the creature beyond the boundaries of the home provided sufficient protection. Others advocated for killing the trespassing amphibian, believing that this action would defeat the human enemies behind the curse and render them powerless. Regardless of the specific response, the underlying fear reflects a lingering connection to the historical association of toads and frogs with witchcraft and bad luck.