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Coventry University historian reveals true stories behind werewolves, demons and Frankenstein's monster in new documentary
Monsters: The Truth Behind the Myths will explore mythical creatures such as werewolves and demons
University news / Creative and Cultural Industries
Friday 23 October 2026
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A Coventry University historian will lift the lid on the real stories behind mythical creatures including werewolves and demons on a new National Geographic documentary.
Dr Darren R. Reid has added his expert voice to Monsters: The Truth Behind the Myths which unpacks the origins of some of the most terrifying legends told for centuries.
The next episode – being shown this weekend – will see Dr Reid help tell the real-life stories of people who claimed to be werewolves or were executed after being accused of turning into the creature.
They include the 16th century trial of Peter Stumpp who confessed under torture to transforming into a werewolf with the Devil's help. Stumpp's shocking case fuelled fears across Europe and helped shape the werewolf legend for centuries to come.
Dr Reid, an Assistant Professor and Course Director of History, will also feature in further episodes exploring demons and Frankenstein's monster.
Werewolves and demons speak to some of our darkest fears and desires – the worry that just next door, just across the water or hidden in the woods there is a force we cannot understand.
Understanding why we tell stories about monsters tells us so much about ourselves – our hopes, dreams and, of course, fears.
Dr Darren R. Reid, Assistant Professor and Course Director of History
The next episode of Monsters: The Truth Behind the Myths will air on National Geographic on Sunday, 25 October, at 9pm.
Find out more about studying history at Coventry Univesity.
