The purpose of a ghoul varies depending on cultural and folkloric traditions. In general, a ghoul is a creature or supernatural being often associated with graveyards, burial grounds, or places of the dead. Here are a few common purposes or characteristics attributed to ghouls in folklore and mythology:
1. Consumption of the Dead: In many traditions, ghouls are believed to feed on human corpses or the flesh of the deceased. They are often depicted as scavengers or creatures that lurk in graveyards, preying upon the dead.
2. Malevolence and Mischief: Ghouls are sometimes associated with malicious intent and are believed to cause harm or bring misfortune to humans. They may be depicted as tricksters or malevolent spirits that enjoy tormenting the living.
3. Transformation: In certain legends, ghouls have the ability to shape-shift or disguise themselves as humans, luring unsuspecting victims to their doom. This transformative aspect adds an element of deception and danger to their nature.
4. Symbolic Representations: Ghouls can serve as symbolic representations of death, decay, and the macabre. They often embody fears and anxieties associated with mortality and the afterlife.
It's important to note that the concept and portrayal of ghouls can vary across different cultures and mythologies. In popular culture, ghouls are frequently depicted in various forms, including literature, movies, and video games, where their purposes and characteristics may be expanded or adapted to fit the specific narrative or artistic interpretation.