'sometimes the legends are uncanny just because they are so enigmatic'
At first glance it seems to not really saying much, but when you delve deeper into what it is saying and apply it to the text, it can be seen to have a great level of meaning.
The quote itself is basically saying that the reason the 'legends' are so mysterious is solely because of their strange nature. One of the most important aspects of this quote to pick up on when thinking of how it relates to the text, is the idea that it is 'just' the fact that they are enigmatic that makes them uncanny, when there are far more factors that help to build up their uncanny presentation. For example, what makes the lady uncanny in this text is the contrast of character that is used. For example, the solider is in contrast to the character of the countess due to his focus and representation of reason (which can be seen in his lack of belief in the supernatural, therefore he does not shiver in fear when he enters the countess's lair). This is in contrast to the character of the Countess who is a supernatural being herself, and is able to continue her levels of power through the presentation of her as a higher supernatural power. This helps to add to the 'uncanny' style of the character as the levels of mystery are amplified by the contrast of character, therefore proving that it is not simply the fact that they are enigmatic that makes them uncanny.
It is also important to consider that the fact that she is enigmatic is what draws into the victims to her, these focuses on the theme of being draw to what is dangerous, despite knowing the damage it could cause to follow and seek out these danger. This could be interpreted to be a question as to if the levels of mystery is what is attractive to the men that are ensnared within her grasp, thus questioning if we are doomed to danger if we seek out what is most mysterious to us. However, the solider (who represents reason) is the only victim who survives, so this could be an attempt to show that to survive what is most mysterious and alluring to us we must approach it with a sense of reason in order to succeed. This idea can be linked to the quote as it comments on the positives that this 'uncanny' nature brings, and how its influences can be harnessed for positive outcomes.
Overall, although the quote does not say much, there are many points that can be developed from or supported by it to help develop and evaluate the viewpoint.
