A monster is a sort of unnatural, monstrous creature, whose physical appearance frightens and whose destructive powers threaten the whole social or religious system of the modern world. The monster’s distinguishing features are its abnormality, which renders it an abominable and the most terrible creation of man. Its abnormal physical growth impels men to wars, its abnormal sexual traits impels men to marring and ruining women, its abnormal intelligence makes it the friend and companion of the lowest class of men. All these characteristics and attributes of a monster compel mankind to fear it and to seek to destroy it. A monster is, like a serpent of ancient days, an imaginary creation of the brain.
The word monster comes from the Greek word monster, meaning “a new-born animal created by a god”; it may be derived from the same root as the verb megas (iacare) meaning “to make.” A certain number of imaginary creatures appear in myths and literature, generally considered as the spirits of monsters: the dwarf, the minelayer, the succubus, the werewolf and, perhaps, the djinn. The word minotaurs in Greek mythology signifies “wild-dried fudge.” A further derivation of the word minotaurs is a dwarf-like race of persons living in the Himalayan regions. A mythic character may also be a magical being, like an angel or archangel. It is a fact that in many primitive religions monsters are dreaded.
The concept of a monster varies with different phases of history, but all creatures considered as monsters by one culture are necessarily dreaded and avoided by other peoples. A monster may be regarded as a dangerous creature. It may attack villages and hamper the normal life of people. Certain animals and plants are held in higher esteem than others, and the possession of a monster may result in punishment by hanging or drowning.
The ancient Egyptians and pre-historic people did not have clear ideas about the relationship between monsters and real beings. Monster-worship was a later development, probably brought into being by hunters and scavengers who looked for monster hides. The existence of monsters pre-dates mankind by hundreds of thousands of years.
A monster may be imaginary or real. A vampire or leprechaun does not drink coffee, tea, chocolate or any other caffeinated beverage. A dragon, monster or ghost may drink red wine, but not green juice, carrot juice or apple cider vinegar. The drink that monster drinks may have nothing whatsoever to do with what he or she looks like. A monster may be made up of elements that do not exist in our world.
Monster drinks and dietary supplements are an exciting new way to reinforce good health, enhance a romantic date, or just to make someone feel good about being a part of something exotic. The only precaution is to look carefully at the ingredients. If you are drinking a monster energy drink or taking a dietary supplement, you should consult a physician first.
