I've been thinking recently, is there any record of premodern people and their thoughts or experiences with static electricity?
When I touch my car door handle and get shocked, I understand what happened. But, I can just imagine getting ready for morning farmwork and getting blasted when grabbing my plow. My feelings would range from mild confusion to downright terror.
More can always be said, but this older answer by /u/hillsonghoods should be of interest.