Netflix Unveils Ed Gein: The Infamous Serial Killer You Need to Know
Netflix has unveiled a new season of its true crime anthology series, “Monster,” focusing on the notorious serial killer Ed Gein. Often referred to as the Plainfield Ghoul, Gein’s criminal activities shocked rural Wisconsin in the 1950s. While he is confirmed to have murdered two women, his gruesome legacy extends beyond those cases, inspiring iconic horror films such as “Psycho” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”
Who Was Ed Gein?
Born in 1906 in Wisconsin, Gein had a troubled upbringing, marred by an abusive father and a domineering mother. His childhood experiences significantly shaped his later life, which included severe isolation and mental health struggles.
Early Life and Family Dynamics
- Gein was raised on a farm in Plainfield, Wisconsin.
- He endured physical abuse from his father, who struggled with alcoholism.
- His mother instilled extreme religious beliefs, describing women as evil temptresses.
After his mother’s death in 1945, Gein’s obsession with her memory intensified. He maintained her rooms as if she were still alive, leading to a disturbing lifestyle.
The Gruesome Discoveries
In 1957, authorities arrested Gein following the disappearance of Bernice Worden, a local hardware store owner. A search of his farm revealed horrific evidence of his crimes.
Items Found at the Scene
- Decapitated and disemboweled bodies.
- Lampshades and masks crafted from human skin.
- Bowls made from skulls.
- A “woman suit” made from corpses.
Gein’s penchant for grave robbing further contributed to the disclosure of these macabre artifacts. He was ultimately diagnosed with schizophrenia and found “not guilty by reason of insanity” in 1968. Gein spent the rest of his life in psychiatric care, passing away in 1984.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Despite his crimes, Gein’s story has fascinated the public and influenced numerous films and books. Experts suggest that the allure surrounding serial killers often stems from society’s desire to understand their motivations.
The Fascination with True Crime
Laurel Ahnert, an assistant teaching professor of communication studies, comments on the cultural obsession with true crime narratives. She states that the depiction of killers often falls into archetypes that attempt to rationalize their actions.
This trend reflects society’s struggle to comprehend the unexplainable aspects of human behavior. As the series “Monster” shows, the curiosity about these haunting figures is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Conclusion
Ed Gein’s life invites profound questions about the nature of evil. Through the lens of true crime media, we continue to grapple with understanding the complexities of such notorious figures. “Monster” serves not only as a dramatization of Gein’s life but also as an exploration of society’s obsession with the darker aspects of human nature.
