The 17th Century saw the beginnings of the establishment of ghosts and ghost mythology. The idea of the vengeful spirit returning to seek revenge dates from this period. Ghosts also began to be featured in ghost story publications.

The existence of ghosts and their ability to visit and affect the fate of the living, was an exceptionally popular idea during the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods. Their cultural influence dating from this period has never waned. 

The illustration is orginal influenced by actual 17th century woodcuts .