The Unidentified Monster that Terrorised 18th Century France - The Beast of Gevaudan

The Beast of Gevaudan terrorized the French province of Gevaudan from 1764 to 1767, causing widespread fear and speculation. The creature was responsible for numerous attacks, leading to various theories about its identity, including a wolf, hyena, or even a werewolf. King Louis XV intervened, sending hunters to capture the beast. Despite initial failures, a large wolf was eventually killed, believed to be the beast. However, attacks continued until a second wolf was slain. The mystery of the beast remains unsolved, with theories ranging from a pack of wolves to a serial killer using the beast as a cover.

What was one of the initial reactions of the populace to the attacks in Gevaudan?

• They organized a festival.

• They ignored the attacks.

• They celebrated the beast.

• They were overcome with fear.

Who was the first person to reportedly see the beast?

• Jacques Porter Fair

• Francois Antoine

• Marie Jean Vallet

• Jean Boulet

What was unusual about the beast's attacks?

• It only attacked animals.

• It only attacked during the night.

• It left no trace of its presence.

• It was more interested in tearing its victims apart than feeding.

What action did King Louis XV take in response to the attacks?

• He ignored the situation.

• He sent Captain Duhamel to hunt the beast.

• He declared a national holiday.

• He moved the villagers to a safer location.

What was the outcome of Captain Duhamel's efforts to capture the beast?

• He was promoted for his bravery.

• He successfully captured the beast.

• He was able to kill the beast.

• His efforts were a failure.

Who was credited with killing the large gray wolf believed to be the beast?

• Jean Chastel

• Francois Antoine

• Captain Duhamel

• Marie Jean Vallet

What evidence suggested that the beast might not have been a single animal?

• The beast was afraid of water.

• The beast was only seen by one person.

• The beast left no tracks.

• The beast was seen in multiple places at once.

What was found in the stomach of the wolf killed by Jean Chastel?

• A letter

• A map

• Human remains

• Jewelry

What theory suggests a supernatural explanation for the beast?

• It was a bear.

• It was a large dog.

• It was a werewolf.

• It was a runaway lion.

What was one of the rational explanations for the beast's identity?

• A mythical creature from folklore.

• A serial killer using the beast as a cover-up.

• A pack of wolves.

• A ghost haunting the village.