What is a key characteristic of revenants in folklore?

A key characteristic of revenants in folklore is that they are often a form of punishment. These entities, which can return from the dead, are typically tied to themes of vengeance, unfinished business, or moral transgressions. They are frequently depicted as spirits or entities that have not found peace due to unresolved issues in their past lives, which often manifests as a need to confront the living or influence them negatively. This punishment aspect reflects deeper cultural beliefs about justice and the consequences of one’s actions in life, emphasizing the idea that wronged souls might return to rectify the injustices they faced.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the predominant characteristics of revenants in folklore. While some supernatural beings may bring good luck or assist in agriculture, these traits are not typically associated with revenants. Instead, revenants are primarily focused on the unsettled nature of their existence, serving as reminders of the past and the need for retribution or resolution. The concept of raising the dead is more closely associated with necromancy or zombies rather than revenants, further distinguishing their unique role within folklore.