When traveling through realms of German mythology and folklore, it's wise to avoid these deadly hitchhikers. The Aufhocker (pl Aufhöcker) is an ambush attacker, waiting in dismal places, dreary graveyards, dark shadows and the cloak of night to leap upon unsuspecting victims.
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Once it jumps on a person's back the Aufhocker is impossible to dislodge without magical or mystical intervention. It becomes heavier with every step, until the victim is crushed to death beneath its weight.
Sometimes, a passerby is lucky. The Aufhocker wants to go to a certain location, and jumps off when the victim takes it there. Some Aufhöcker seek their place of burial so they can rest in peace. Others, especially in the Rhineland-Palatinate regions of Germany, are werewolves under a curse due to suicide or violent death, who might release the victim if brought to a churchyard.
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A magic spell can also free the victim from the grip of the Aufhocker. A visit to a witch might be in order. An elderly, stooped, female witch can trick the weighty spirit, as some Aufhöcker attack little old ladies. Either the witch can provide the victim with a spell, charm or potion, or the Aufhocker jumps on her back, thinking her helpless, and gets a surprise when she banishes it from the mortal realm.
Aufhöcker are often shape-shifters with demonic connections, numbered among the Germanic Undead as they're neither alive nor dead. They might appear as dogs, other people or pig demons. If they become Aufhöcker due to past misdeeds, they may seek redemption. This type of Aufhocker is known to ambush thieves, who must give return the loot or perish.
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Another way to remove this unwanted hitchhiker is with the bright light of day. Aufhöcker despise sunlight and prefer to attack on overcast days, or at night. Even in daylight, however, a person must be especially careful walking through cemeteries, as these are favorite places for Aufhöcker to lurk.
The Aufhocker relates to unhappy emotions and conditions of fear, depression, anxiety and despair. It can cause negative feelings, or be attracted by them. Clinical depression and fatigue may feel like being caught in the grip of the Aufhocker and unable to take one more step.
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