History of Kraken in Timeline

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Kraken

The Kraken is a legendary sea monster, possibly a giant cephalopod, said to dwell in the Norwegian Sea. The Kraken's legend might have originated from sightings of giant squids, which can grow up to 10.5 meters in length.

1917: Hafgufa translation

In 1917, an English translator of the King's Mirror opted to translate 'hafgufa' as 'kraken', linking the two mythical sea creatures.

1920: Kraken identification

In 1920, Finnur Jónsson favored identifying the kraken as an inkfish (squid/octopus) on etymological grounds, aligning with earlier descriptions and tales of giant sea monsters.

1920: Kraken origin skepticism

In 1920, Finnur Jónsson, having suggested that the Kraken was an inkfish, expressed skepticism about the idea that the kraken originated from the hafgufa.

1920: Horven name meaning

In 1920, Icelandic philologist Finnur Jónsson explained that 'horven' (another name for the monster) is an alternative form of 'harv' (harrow), suggesting that the name was inspired by the inkfish's action of seemingly plowing the sea.

1928: Cthulhu creation

In 1928, H.P. Lovecraft created the character of Cthulhu, serving as a modern depiction of the kraken, and embodying themes of horror and apocalypse.

1953: The Kraken Wakes novel

In 1953, John Wyndham's novel, "The Kraken Wakes" was published, marking a modern literary appearance of the kraken.

The Kraken Wakes
The Kraken Wakes

1981: Clash of the Titans film

In 1981, the film "Clash of the Titans" featured the Kraken, popularizing the mythical creature in cinema.

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2006: Pirates of the Caribbean film

In 2006, the kraken was featured as Davy Jones' pet in the film "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest".

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2010: Clash of the Titans remake

In 2010, a remake of the film "Clash of the Titans" was released, again featuring the Kraken.

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