It’s debated in the world of anthropology whether or not two cultures with no way to know about one another can come up with the same ideas. Egyptians and Mayan weren’t aware of the other’s civilization, but pyramids were central to both cultures.
One aspect that seems to transcend all cultures is the idea of ghosts. They are all spirits who are unable to cross over into a peaceful afterlife. And with that comes the artwork that reflects it.
The Japanese depiction of ghosts and ghouls are particularly frightening — and beautiful.
