The nymph from the woods was a dangerous female-like creature that moved in the deep woods. She was incredibly beautiful and could entice men to get lost. She was alluring on the outside, but when you experienced her real monster-like appearance, it could be too late.
The water sprite was a dangerous male-like creature that could drown people by luring them and then pulling them down into the deep water. He was also able to make people dance to death by his violin playing.
According to folklore, the Shamans/Nåjderna were skillful in both black and white magic. They could stop bleeding, cure illness with herbs, but they could also send enchanted bears on their enemies.
In the past, people were very afraid of the dead. They feared that they could come back to avenge or harm the living. On the coasts people feared that dead sailors would return.
In the past, there were little people/ småfolk around all farms and woods. They were helpful and friendly to people. But if you cheated or stole from them, it could go really bad.
The wise old women were looked upon as physicians, psychologists, midwives and life coaches in past times. But priests and officials condemned their business. At worst, they were accused of witchcraft and sentenced to death.