In Albanian folklore, a vampire can only be destroyed by which creature?

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Prepare for UCF ANT3026 Mummies, Zombies, and Vampires: Anthropology of the Undead Exam 2. Practice with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and detailed explanations. Excel in your test!

In Albanian folklore, vampires, known as "vampir," have specific traits and weaknesses tied closely to the cultural and environmental context. The belief that a vampire can only be destroyed by a white wolf stems from the symbolic representation of the wolf in many mythologies as a powerful and fierce creature that embodies the spirit of the wild. The white wolf, in particular, is often viewed as a purveyor of purity or virtue, standing in stark contrast to the dark, malevolent nature of the vampire.

This connection highlights the cultural narratives surrounding the supernatural, where specific animals are imbued with powers to counteract evil forces. The white wolf's role in the folklore emphasizes themes of duality—light versus darkness and good versus evil—central to many tales of the undead.

In this context, the other choices do not align with traditional beliefs about how to combat vampires in Albanian folklore. The red herring is metaphorical and does not have roots in vampire lore, while silver stakes, although commonly associated with vampire lore in Western traditions, are not specific to Albanian beliefs. Similarly, while wolves are significant, the grey wolf does not carry the same symbolic weight as the white wolf in relation to defeating vampires.