What compels an individual to stray so far from societal norms, to commit heinous acts that most of us cannot even fathom? What exists within the hidden crevices of their psyche? These questions often linger in our minds as we read, watch, or hear about these chilling characters who, alarmingly, walk among us, blending seamlessly into the tapestry of society.

This course offers a riveting journey into the macabre, debunking myths while shining a light on the dark truths. Some common misconceptions we'll unravel include:

• Serial killers being solely driven by twisted sexual desires.
• The inevitability of their killing spree, rendering them powerless against their own compulsions.
• Their universal insanity or inherent malevolence since birth.
• The early-life signs, hinting at the monstrous paths they'd tread on.
• The oversimplification of their categorization solely based on motives.

Embark on a spine-tingling exploration of twenty serial killers. While the likes of Jack the Ripper and Ted Bundy have become household names, there are others like Harold Shipman and Aileen Wuornos whose tales are equally haunting. Delve into the intricate fabric of their lives -- from their formative years to the methodologies of their gruesome acts and their eventual trysts with justice.

Beyond the mere recounting of events, this course also dissects the psychological underpinnings, the myriad factors that possibly drove these individuals to commit their chilling acts of violence. As we navigate these dark waters, a deeper understanding of human behavior, society's role, and the intricate dance of nature and nurture emerges.

Prepare to be entranced and, at times, disturbed as you journey into this course. Arm yourself not just with an inquisitive mind, but perhaps, for comfort's sake, an extra lamp by your side. As we tread this shadowy path together, remember that by understanding darkness, we're better equipped to appreciate the light. Welcome to an odyssey like no other.