Early Empires and Myths (0–500 CE)

As the Roman Empire expanded and Christianity became a dominant force, structured religions grew increasingly intolerant of supernatural beliefs. Folklore about witches, daemons, and spirits persisted among the lower classes but was dismissed or demonized by ruling powers. Supernatural beings, hunted and vilified, retreated fully into secrecy by this time, influencing human events only from the shadows. Myths were increasingly viewed as allegories rather than literal truths, marking the beginning of a long-hidden existence for the supernatural.