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Giant Ants

The document discusses various urban myths such as stories about giant rats in New York City and spider bites that lay eggs in human skin. It also examines why certain myths like the vanishing hitchhiker are popular and the real reasons behind aspects of popular culture like Santa's red suit.

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11 views2 pages

Giant Ants

The document discusses various urban myths such as stories about giant rats in New York City and spider bites that lay eggs in human skin. It also examines why certain myths like the vanishing hitchhiker are popular and the real reasons behind aspects of popular culture like Santa's red suit.

Uploaded by

108811
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Giant Rats and Sinister Spiders: Urban Myths

1. What is an urban myth?


An Urban myth is modern-day folk stories which are passed off as true.

2. What are the characteristics of urban myths?


They often have a supernatural element, and they can thrive on the basis that they cannot be
explained.

3. According to the urban myth, how many rats are there per person in New York City?
5 to 1

4. What is the sequence of events in the spider bite urban myth? Make a list of five stages in

the story.

1. A women gets bit by a spider on the cheek

2. The woman wakes up and puts a cream on it and tried to ignore it but it kept itching.

3. The bite became larger and the lady goes to the doctor

4. The doctor lances up the bite and finds spider eggs in her cheek

5. Later on the story is debunked and is proved no such has happened or can happen

5. Why is the spider bite story popular?

This urban legend is popular because it plays on a popular fear – arachnophobia.

6. In The Vanishing Hitchhiker, who is the passenger revealed to be?


The hitchhiker was a ghost.

7. Why is food a common target for urban myths?

We all need food to eat – it’s essential to life.

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Giant Rats and Sinister Spiders: Urban Myths

8. What is a chain letter?


The threatening letters used to be delivered by post, but the advent of the digital age means
they are now sent via email or messaging apps. Often, they can be accompanied by a meme or
picture, and they can play on the emotions of the recipient, telling the person that they don’t care
about cancer, or war, if they don’t forward on the message.
9. What might be the real reason why Santa wears red?

It’s possible that the colour is actually taken from the hue of bishops’ robes

10. What should people do when they hear a strange or unusual story?
Always remain sceptical and critical of any stories you hear. Research them carefully, and
don’t be taken in by tall tales

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