Exploring the Supernatural Nature of Michael Myers, the Boogeyman and Force of Evil in Halloween
In the richly layered universe of Halloween, Michael Myers is a character who transcends the boundaries of the mundane. A being of pure evil and calculated violence, he is often referred to as a boogeyman – a figure who exists to instill fear and create havoc. This article delves into the nature of Michael Myers, examining him through the lens of cultural archetypes, the psychological realm, and supernatural elements to understand his enduring impact.
The Nature of Michael Myers as a Boogeyman
The term boogeyman is often used to describe a spectral, phantom-like figure whose purpose is to frighten children into behaving properly. In the context of the Halloween franchise, Michael Myers embodies this very essence. Introduced as a powerful and psychotic killer, his presence in Haddonfield transforms it into a veneer of pure evil. Each iteration of the film series redefines his nature, delving into the deeper layers of his character to reveal a more intricate and supernatural being.
Archetypes and the Unexplainable
Joseph Campbell, a renowned mythologist, described archetypes as dynamic patterns of behavior or thought that are inherited from past generations. These archetypes shape human culture and personal experiences. In Halloween, Michael Myers represents a chthonic entity – a primordial force that is both terrifying and irresistible, challenging the boundaries of human understanding.
Joseph Campbell's idea of archetypes is rooted in the theory of rationalist metaphysics. Specifically, the second discipline of rationalist metaphysics, rejected by Kant, is Rational Cosmology. This field deals with the nature and constitution of the "world" as a sum-total of all appearances, objects, and events in space and time. Myers’ character defies this rational understanding. He is not just a human being with mental problems, but a manifestation of a deeper, almost metaphysical evil.
The Supernatural Residue of Myers
Michael Myers is more than just a serial killer; he is a personification of fate itself. This can be seen in his portrayal as an omnipresent and omnipotent force within Haddonfield on Halloween. His essence is beyond comprehension, and his existence challenges all logic and rationality. His very presence in the film serves as a reminder that there are forces in the world that cannot be explained or contained by human science or psychiatry.
The Boogeyman in the Context of Haddonfield
Within the context of Haddonfield, Michael Myers is not just a monster but an embodiment of the town’s purest form of evil. This is reflected in the celebration of Samhain, a festival dedicated to their sun god, Muck Olla, who is also referred to as the boogeyman. The festival is a plea to Muck Olla to appease the evil that lingers in Haddonfield, highlighting the town's deep-seated connection to darkness and the supernatural.
The Archetypal Boogeyman and Beyond
The boogeyman, as a figure, is not fixed but is defined by the fear it inspires. Michael Myers, too, is a shadowy figure, devoid of specific appearance and embodying the fear of the unknown. In the Halloween series, he is referred to as "The Shape," a term that beautifully encapsulates his essence. It suggests that while he may have a human form, he is more of a shadow or a force that operates beyond human comprehension.
Michael Myers as an Archetypal Force
Described by characters as "as old as the universe or very nearly" and "the only psychopaths to kill you nicely," Michael Myers is a force of pure and simple evil. He is not just a murderer but a symbol of unending malevolence that persists through generations. His existence challenges the boundaries of human understanding, embodying a kind of supernatural force that is beyond the reach of science or conventional psychiatry.
The character of Michael Myers in the Halloween series is multifaceted and deeply rooted in cultural archetypes. He is a boogeyman, a force of evil, and an embodiment of the unknown. His enduring presence in popular culture is a testament to the power of myth and the human psyche's fascination with the supernatural.