Mapping Out the Ripper Criminal

There are a number of myths that surround the phenomena of serial killers, thanks to their portrayal in the media, in films, on TV and in the general entertainment that we see around us daily. It is these forms of media that dictate how we perceive a serial killer to act, to dress, to interact with the wider world and live their life; often undetected.

Popular television shows such as Dexter and Bates Motel have given serial killers personalities that are relatable, and films like Silence of the Lambs have given serial killers a level of intellect that many only dream of reaching. While these portrayals are every bit as made up as the tooth fairy, there can be an air of truth about the stereotypes.

Popular Traits

Some of the most popular traits that surround the serial killer psyche are:

• That they are dysfunctional
• They are often loners; avoiding human contact
• They are only motivated by sex or power
• They are insane
• They are very clever
• The idea of being caught thrills them
• They stay within a certain comfort zone

However, just how made up are these characteristics? If we look at the Jack the Ripper map, of where his victims were killed, it is clear that he was local to the area. If we look at how he got away undetected, we can deduce that he was relatively intelligent, and the way he attacked and mutilated his victims indicates a need for power. His victims were prostitutes, left open to sex attacks; however, it does appear that the Ripper was after much more than sex.

“We Covet What We See”

Famous fictional serial killer Dr Hannibal Lector told the FBI in the film Silence of the Lambs that a killer “covets what he sees every day”, which led to Clarice Starling figuring out just who Buffalo Bill was. This concept of killers working in the towns and cities they live in is one of the myths that, more often than not, proves to be quite true.

Although the Ripper killings were never solved, the mystery of the name lives on. Find out the facts, get to know the victims, point fingers at the suspects and walk around the Jack the Ripper map; as it stands today on our number one rated Jack the Ripper Tour.

Book your place today to envisage the crime scenes and debunk the myths as you walk.

For an experience you won’t forget in a hurry, please visit our website or contact us for more information, and we hope to see you soon!