Character research

As my short film revolves around the character of the Grim Reaper, my teacher thought it would be best if I actually did some more research into the character and his origins.

So what I learnt was that the personification of Death first appeared during the 14th century, and was first named in 1847. He frequently appeared in paintings at the height of the bubonic plague, a skeletal figure with a scythe, sometimes wearing a black cloak.

However after this, he began to appear in cultures all across the world. India, Poland and North America. Other personifications of Death have also appeared over human history, however with different appearances, names and characteristics, such as in Celtic religion and the middle east. Sometimes he delivered death, sometimes he was only a guide. In some cultures Death was even a female.

After this the character of Death became so well known that he's appeared in nearly every form of media. He's in books, comics, games, televison shows and films. For inspiration, I have no lack of sources.

Reflective Comment: Knowing the origin of my character and seeing how all of the different cultures of the world view him is very helpful. I can take different pieces from different depictions of him to create a unique yet familiar character that will hopefully be rememberable as well.