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.

Discuss the impact of the beast's attacks on the local community.

What were the final outcomes of the hunting efforts against the beast?

What were some of the characteristics described by witnesses of the beast?

What theories exist regarding the possibility of the beast being a werewolf?