Mythology and Folklore:
* The Seven Sisters: In Greek mythology, the Pleiades (Seven Sisters) are linked to the moon and its phases. As werewolves are often connected to the moon, this celestial connection could be interpreted as tying the number 7 to these creatures.
* Seven Years of Bad Luck: Some cultures associate the number 7 with misfortune, which could be linked to the destructive nature of werewolves.
* The Seventh Son: In some folklore, the seventh son of a seventh son is believed to have special abilities or be destined for a particular fate. This could be connected to the idea of a werewolf being born with a powerful curse.
Literary and Cinematic Influences:
* The Wolf Pack: In many stories, werewolves are portrayed in packs of seven, leading to the number being associated with their strength and ferocity. This is a common theme in modern media, further solidifying the connection.
* Full Moon: The full moon, which occurs roughly every 7 days, is a significant aspect of werewolf lore. This connection to the lunar cycle could influence the association of the number 7 with werewolves.
Symbolic Interpretation:
* Transformation: The number 7 can symbolize transformation and change, aligning with the concept of a werewolf shifting between human and wolf form.
* Completeness and Perfection: The number 7 is often seen as a complete or perfect number, which could be interpreted as representing the werewolf's full potential or the intensity of their curse.
Ultimately, the association between the number 7 and werewolves is not explicitly defined or rooted in one specific source. It is likely a combination of various cultural, mythological, and literary influences that have solidified this connection over time.