Germakochi

Germakochi, is a forest man who appears in the mythology of the Laz people. Ochokochi of Georgian mythology considered equivalent to Germakochi. In ancient times, Laz people would leave their villages if they feel that Germakochi is in the village.

Description

Germakochi is a tall and hairy figure who lives in the forests. It looks like something between a monkey and a human. Germakochi is a curious character and likes to interact with humans. The way to escape from Germakochi is to make a fire. Germakochi takes the fire and burns instantly. Then, he would run to Black Sea and jumps into it.[1] Figure is also similar to Kallikantzaros of Anatolian folklore.

Etymology

In Laz language, germa means "mountain" and kochi means "man". Therefore, meaning of Germakochi is "man of the mountain".[2]

References
  1. Ascherson (2015). Black Sea: The Birthplace of Civilisation and Barbarism. Random House. p. 184. ISBN 1784700916. Retrieved 20 December 2019.
  2. Özhan Öztürk. Karadeniz Ansiklopedik Sözlük. 2005. İstanbul. ss. 417-18


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