Discover the meaning behind the myths that still shape our world.

Breaking a Mirror Brings Seven Years of Bad Luck

Why Broken Mirrors Are Linked to Misfortune in Folklore

Details

Breaking a mirror is believed to result in seven years of misfortune. This superstition remains deeply ingrained in Western culture, causing anxiety when mirrors shatter accidentally.

Historical Context

The ancient Romans believed mirrors reflected not just physical appearance but a person’s soul or essence. Breaking a mirror was considered serious because it symbolized damaging the soul. Since Romans believed life renewed every seven years (with the body supposedly regenerating completely), they concluded that mirror-related misfortune would last for this same cycle.

Modern Relevance

While most people don’t truly believe breaking mirrors causes bad luck, the superstition persists in modern consciousness. A 2019 YouGov survey found that approximately 14% of Americans still feel some anxiety when breaking a mirror, demonstrating how superstitions can outlast their original cultural contexts.

Sources

  • Roud, S. (2006). The Penguin Guide to the Superstitions of Britain and Ireland. Penguin Books.
  • Dundes, A. (1981). “Wet and Dry, the Evil Eye.” Journal of American Folklore, 94(371), 9–25.

Quick Facts

Historical Period

Linked to soul damage

Practice Type

Originates from Roman beliefs

Classification

14% still feel anxious

Related Superstitions

Related Articles

Scroll to Top