Friday the 13th frightens many people, and if myths are proven true, they have good reason.

Christ was crucified on a Friday. One reason thirteen is believed to be unlucky is because there were 13 people—Christ and his 12 disciples—at the Last Supper. The combination produces one fear of Friday the 13th.

In the 18th century, a hangman’s wages was 13 half-pence, according to Funk and Wagnall’s Standard Dictionary of Folklore, Mythology and Legends.

“It’s one of those things that we are involved in,” said NIU English Professor William Johnson. “Friday the 13th is a century-old superstition that people just believe.”

Friday the 13th is traditionally referred to as the “Day of Illfortune,” according to Funk and Wagnall’s.

The dictionary also stated the United States and England hanged criminals on Fridays, Eve offered the apple to Adam on a Friday and devils and witches met at the Sabbath on Friday nights.

People believe Friday the 13th is unlucky because “if someone knows of a bad thing that happens to one person, the negative is magnified,” said Karen Stoiber, NIU assistant psychology professor.

“People tend not to look at the positive,” Stoiber said. “We’re not rational.”

NIU students are split on the legend.

“I’m not superstitious in any way,” said sophomore Amy Julian. “It’s all meaningless.”

Junior John Marshall said, “I don’t believe in it because I’m not a superstitious dude. It’s just the thrill.”

However, some take the day seriously. “I believe in Friday the 13th because I’m Irish,” said Maggy Harling, a senior. “I don’t go near a black cat unless I’m in my car and about to run it over.”