Morgens | Water Spirits of Brittany

In Breton folklore, Morgens (also known as Mari-Morgans) are elusive water spirits or mermaids who dwell in the sea and fresh waters of Brittany. 

Key Characteristics

• Identity: They are often depicted as beautiful women with human forms or as mermaids who are fish-like from the waist down.
• The Legend of Dahut: A prominent Morgen is Dahut, the princess of the legendary sunken city of Ys. After a flood destroyed her city, she was claimed by the sea and transformed into a Morgen.
• Dangers: Similar to the sirens of ancient myth, Morgens are sometimes portrayed as dangerous beings who lure sailors to their deaths.
• Magical Abilities: They are linked to other powerful water figures like the Lady of the Lake (Viviane) and Morgan le Fay, who is often described as an "empress of the wilderness" and "governor of the waves" in related Arthurian texts. 

Other Water Spirits in Brittany

• Korrigans: While primarily forest-dwelling fairy folk, some inhabit fountains and springs, appearing at twilight or under moonlight.
• Night-washers (Eur tunnerez noz): Evil spirits found by streams at night who wash the linen of those destined to die.
• Melusine: A fresh-water spirit of wells and rivers, often depicted with a serpent or fish tail.

These spirits are part of a rich tapestry of Breton legends that also includes figures like the Ankou (a grim-reaper like figure) and the night-washers (evil spirits who wash the linen of the dead).