User:Bearsona/Human disguise

The concept of a non-human posing in human disguise is a common convention in science fiction, mythology, and religious texts. The concept of gods and angels taking on a human form occurs as far back as Ancient Egypt and Hebrew mythology.

Mythology
In pagan religions, deities very often took on the form of a human disguise for various tasks.

In the Torah, angels only appeared to men in a human disguise, and never in their true form.

In Japanese mythology, Kitsune, or legendary foxes, often take on a human disguise; most frequently taking the form of an elderly man, attractive women, or child. Kitsune can also replicate the exact appearance of a specific person. In medieval Japan, the belief that any beautiful women met alone at dusk was a Kitsune was prevalent. In some legends, Kitsune cannot fully transform, but maintain a tale or other foxlike characteristic. Some Kitsune in disguise prey on humans through sexual contact, much like the succubus.

Science fiction
Science fiction alien invasions generally use one of two plot methods. When aliens do not attack the planet directly, they discreetly invade by taking on human disguises. This common plot device manifests itself in books and films like Invasion of the Body Snatchers.

The film Men in Black and its sequel Men in Black II deal with numerous aliens who take on human disguises in order to live and travel on Earth without causing disturbance.