Creation of a Wendigo
According to the legends Wendigo's were created when someone participated in cannibalism or was possessed by a evil spirit known by the same name but sometimes spelled as Windigo instead. In some less popular versions of the legend simply being excessively greedy could result in transforming into one. In all cases the resulting was the same less than human creature that would then stalk the forests until someone killed it.
Purpose of the myth
The story would serve as a powerful deterrent against cannibalism if a group of native americans ended up without enough food to survive a harsh winter. This was especially true as the monsters were said to be eternally hungry living every moment as if starving for the rest of eternity or until killed. It also served as a warning against being overly greedy and a reminder of the importance of cooperation with others.
Modern Influences
Wendigo sightings were most popular in the early twentieth century when many settlers reported seeing them in and around communities often just before a death would occur.While rare wendigo sightings have continued into the modern day and there are even a few people who are self proclaimed "wendigo hunters." Additionally there is a rare medical condition referred to as Wendigo Psychosis in which the afflicted person has a strong craving for human meat even if other foods are available. The condition is extremely rare and believed to be a culture bond syndrome. The myth is also extremely popular in the media with references to them in many television shows and games such as Charmed, Grimm, Supernatural, The X-files, Hannibal, and Warcraft.