Many years ago, I remember listening to a play on Radio 3 (it was probably called the Third Programme then) which told a very similar story to the Bluebeard/ family curse theme. It was apparently based on a Welsh legend, though since the languages are similar, it could have been Breton. The main character was called something like Harlevin.
A quick search in the internet suggests a connection between that name and Herluin, which also rings a bell in connection with all the Languedoc and Cathar stories, conspiracy theories and the like.
It might be worth following up.
Cheers
Dave