Who is the Nun in the Movie 'The Conjuring'?

The nun in 'The Conjuring' series appears as a terrifying and memorable character. Known as Valak, she is a demonic entity that takes on the form of a woman dressed as a nun. Valak's first appearance is in 'The Conjuring 2,' which was released in 2016. Let's break down who Valak is and why she is such an important figure in the series.

Why is Valak Important?

Valak is not just any demon; she is a central figure in the story. The presence of the nun adds a layer of fear and suspense, making her scenes some of the most chilling in the series. Here are some reasons why Valak is important:

• Central Antagonist: In 'The Conjuring 2,' Valak is the main antagonist who terrorizes the Hodgson family. Her presence is felt throughout the film and drives the main story arc.
• Connecting Threads: Valak also acts as a connecting thread between different movies in 'The Conjuring' universe. She appears in other films like 'The Nun,' where her backstory is explored more deeply.
• Symbolism: The use of a nun's habit is symbolic. It represents perversion of purity and faith, making her even more frightening to the audience.

What is Valak's Backstory?

Valak is inspired by real demonology, though the film takes creative liberties. Here's a simplified version of her backstory:

• Ancient Demon: Valak is an ancient demon, known from grimoires dating back centuries. In real demonology texts, Valak is sometimes described as a child-like figure riding a two-headed dragon, a far cry from her depiction as a nun.
• The Abbey of St. Carta: In 'The Nun,' Valak's history is linked to an old abbey in Romania. The abbey was originally built by a duke who summoned Valak. The demon was defeated and trapped until being released accidentally in the 20th century.
• Lorraine Warren's Vision: The nun's form is used to haunt Lorraine Warren. Lorraine has visions of Valak, which leads to personal and haunting encounters that add emotional weight to the story.

How Does Valak Influence Other Characters?

Valak's influence spreads beyond just being a scary entity. Here are some ways she impacts the characters:

• Lorraine and Ed Warren: Valak's haunting presence directly affects Lorraine and Ed Warren, the famous paranormal investigators. Valak is involved in their personal and professional lives, making their battles against other supernatural entities even more dangerous.
• The Hodgson Family: In 'The Conjuring 2,' Valak torments the Hodgson family in their London home. The relentless hauntings create a desperate situation that only the Warrens can resolve.
• Sister Irene: In 'The Nun,' Sister Irene faces Valak in a battle to save the abbey and stop the demon from entering the world.

Valak is a crucial part of 'The Conjuring' universe. Her frightening presence, deep backstory, and significant impact on the main characters make her one of the most memorable and terrifying villains in recent horror films.