Summary

Daemons, a distinctive species inA Discovery of Witches, offer a unique blend of human and supernatural qualities. Their origins, steeped in classical mythology, hint at a profound connection to the divine. Inspired by the Greek concept of daemons as intermediary spirits, the daemons inA Discovery of Witchesserve asa bridge between the human and supernatural realms, adding a layer of ambiguity and intrigue to the narrative.

While they may not possess the overt magical powers of their supernatural counterparts, daemons exhibit aremarkable capacity for creativity, intelligence, and even precognition. Their talents, often expressed through the arts, politics, or other fields, showcase their distinctive nature. Much like the other species, they are involved with the Congregation, which is executedbetter in theA Discovery of Witchesshow than in the book.

A cutout of Diana Bishop in A Discovery Of Witches against a cutout of Earth and a golden background with sparkles.

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Daemons Are A Type Of Species In A Discovery Of Witches

Daemons Are One Of The Many Creatures Inhabiting Its World

Daemons inA Discovery of Witchesare not demons, as their names might suggest. The word“demon”comes from the Greek word“daimōn”, which means deity and genius. The origins of the daemon species inA Discovery of Witcheshave classical inspiration. Daemons in Greek mythology were originally lesser deities or guiding spirits. They were often seen asintermediaries between gods and humans, influencing fate, fortune, and individual destinies.

A Discovery of Witchesseems influenced by this with their daemons, which seem to be a middle ground and a source of ambiguity and intrigue for the show. In theAll Soulsseries, daemons are a unique species alongside humans, witches, and vampires, with their origins shrouded in mystery.

A composite of two promotional images features Matthew Goode and Teresa Palmer with magical objects in A Discovery Of Witches

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Known for their creativity and unconventional thinking, daemons often live ordinary lives. However, theireccentricity can sometimes be misunderstood, leading to accusations of madness. Gifted daemons, called “moonkissed,” possess the ability to see the future through premonitions. While they possess magical abilities, these powers pale in comparison to those of witches or vampires. Daemons have talents and can excel in various fields, from the arts to politics. Though rare, some daemons possess unique abilities such as telepathy or visions, but these are far from the extraordinary magic displayed by witches.

a discovery of witches

Who Are Daemons In A Discovery Of Witches?

Multiple Characters Are Counted As Daemons In A Discovery Of Witches

In theAll Soulstrilogy,daemons are preternaturally intelligent and creative. While they aren’t as powerful as vampires and witches, they have a say in the supernatural society of the books and the show. A council of nine, consisting of three representatives from each race - daemons, witches, and vampires - oversees the Congregation, the governing body for the supernatural world in theAll Soulstrilogy. Several daemons are members of the congregation.

Matthew’s best friend

Congregation member

Elizabethan poet and dramatist, best friend of Matthew Clairmont

Leo Ashizawa

Like witches, daemons are born, whereas vampires are created, and they are often born to ordinary families. Interestingly, some historical figures are included in the series including Christopher “Kit” Marlowe being a daemon inA Discovery of Witches.Since his appearance in theAll Soulsbook trilogy, he has also appeared as a vampire in Jim Jarmusch’s moody gothic movieOnly Lovers Left Alive.Connecting themes to his famous workDoctor Faustus, the first dramatization of the Faust legend,Marlowe makes a particularly great daemonconsidering Faust’s intellectual aspirations.

Daemons' Powers In A Discovery Of Witches Explained

Rather Than Possess A Shared Set Of Powers, Many Are Unique To One Another

Daemons are a distinct species with a diverse range of talents, from extraordinary artistic skills to exceptional intelligence. These abilities are not malevolent but ratherinnate characteristics of their nature. Witches cannot detect daemons by scent, unlike vampires. Some witches, though, report a disconcerting sensation when a daemon looks at them. While daemons lack the enchantment abilities of witches, many possess supernatural gifts. Some report having precognitive visions and the ability to read minds.

[Their traits] could be an allegory for ADHD.

During puberty, daemons' innate abilities become apparent, often manifesting asexceptional mental and creative talents or, unfortunately, as madness.Their innateness makes their powers less supernatural than other species in the series. In rare cases, these abilities can lead to tragic consequences. In theAll Soulstrilogy, their traits – such as being easily distracted and losing things constantly, but being highly creative and inspired – could be an allegory for ADHD. This makes the daemons inA Discovery of Witchesmuch closer to the human experience, adding nuance and neurodiversity to the show’s universe.