Product Description
High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Religion in England is about the development of religion in England from the earliest times to the present day. Currently, the largest religion in the country is Christianity, with the Church of England the official state church holding a special constitutional position. After Christianity, religions with the most adherents are Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, Buddhism, the Bahá'í Faith, Rastafarianism and Neopaganism. There are also organisations which promote irreligion, atheist humanism, and secularism. ... Read more

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Discover the untamed paganism of the Vikings and the Germanic tribes prior to the complete Christianization of Europe

• Explores the different forms of magic practiced by these tribes, including runic magic, necromancy (death magic), soul-travel, and shape-shifting

• Examines their rites of passage and initiation rituals and their most important gods, such as Odin, Loki, and Thor

• Looks at barbarian magic in historical accounts, church and assembly records, and mythology as well as an eyewitness report from a 10th-century Muslim diplomat

• Reveals the use and abuse of this tradition’s myths and magic by the Nazis

Before the conversion of Europe to Christianity in the Middle Ages, Germanic tribes roamed the continent, plundering villages and waging battles to seek the favor of Odin, their god of war, ecstasy, and magic. Centuries later, predatory Viking raiders from Scandinavia carried on similar traditions. These wild “barbarians” had a system of social classes and familial clans with complex spiritual customs, from rites of passage for birth, death, and adulthood to black magic practices and shamanic ecstatic states, such as the infamous “berserker’s rage.”

Chronicling the original pagan tradition of free and wild Europe--and the use and abuse of its myths and magic by the Nazis--Hans-Peter Hasenfratz offers a concise history of the Germanic tribes of Europe and their spiritual, magical, and occult beliefs. Looking at historical accounts, church and assembly records, mythology, and folktales from Germany, Russia, Scandinavia, and Iceland as well as an eyewitness report of Viking customs and rituals from a 10th-century Muslim diplomat, Hasenfratz explores the different forms of magic--including charms, runic magic, necromancy, love magic, soul-travel, and shamanic shape-shifting--practiced by the Teutonic tribes and examines their interactions with and eventual adaptation to Christianity. Providing in-depth information on their social class and clan structure, rites of passage, and their most important gods and goddesses, such as Odin, Loki, Thor, and Freyja, Hasenfratz reveals how it is only through understanding our magical barbarian roots that we can see the remnants of their language, culture, and dynamic spirit that have carried through to modern times.  ... Read more

Product Description
The god most prominently set forth in early Irish missionary records is Crom, Cromm Cruach or Cenn Crûach, the bleeding head; or Cromm Cruaich, the Crooked or Bent One of the Mound. The Mother of the Irish gods,--the Bona Dea of Romans--appears to have been the Morrigan, to whom the white-horned bull was sacred. She was the Great Queen. The Female Principle was adored by the old Irish in various forms. As the Black Virgin, she is the dark mould, or matter, from whose virgin material all things proceed. She is the Ana-Perema, of the Phœnicians, and the queen of women. She may be the Brid, Bride or Bridget, goddess of wisdom, but daughter of the Druid Dubhthach. Samhan, literally servant, is derived from Sam, the sun; so, samh-an, like the sun. As the Irish Pluto, he is guardian of the Dead. As such, he would receive the prayers for souls on Hallow Eve... ... Read more

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The Story of the Tuatha De Danaan and of the Fianna of Ireland

Danu is a goddess, but she is not mentioned very often in the Celtic pantheon. It is odd that a whole race of people are named after a goddess who plays little in their mythos. You also can not consider the Goddess Danu as a Mother Goddess because the Irish Celtic people did not have this concept.

It is also important to note that the Celtic people considered their deities as another life form, no more 'higher' or 'better' than themselves or their families. The words 'god' and 'goddess' therefore have a whole different meaning to them as it does to us. They were not worshipped in the same sense as we use the word. They respected and admired them not because they were divine but rather because they could do things that humans could not.

The Tuatha De Danann were also not considered immortal, they lived by the same physical laws as the Celts which included death. This is something that is very different, while nearly every other culture viewed their deities as superior and immortal the Irish Celts did not and must be kept in mind while studing them.

If we look at 'Tuatha De Danann' it is usually translated as The People of the Goddess Danu. Tuatha is People in the sense of a whole race. The Celtic people associated their gods and goddesses with various skills and abilities. A very big association with Danu is craftsmanship. Often in the legends the deity's name is interchangable with his or her skill, and by that we could come up with...

Tuatha De Danann as 'The People of Craftsmanship' or 'The Artistic People'. Which gives a better discription of them. The Tuatha De Danann were ordinary folk of the world, and it was used to define country people or common folk, like us, from the gentry of that day.

The root of Tuatha also means North. In the Irish Celtic mythos north is considered to be the source of all power. The Tuatha De Danann came from the North, here in the north they studied all the arts. The common people, the whole race, studied all the magical and powerful arts in the northern islands of the world.

For more titles like this, type “dreamz" into the search field or go to http://dreamz-work.com
... Read more

Product Description
Welcome to the world of the Celts, a world of magic, shape changing, sorcery and divination, of heroism, strange rites and rituals. A world where legend mixed with fact, where the physical world and Otherworld blended together. By combining sources from Celtic mythology, archaeology and eye witness accounts from people of the time, we can build up an accurate picture of life all those years ago. This book presents a fascinating picture of Celtic religion, featuring places of worship, deities, the importance and significance of trees and animals, the use of bones, cults of the head and of the dead, burial practices and kingship. Marion Pearce is well known for her extensive articles on Celtic history and culture published in numerous magazines both in the UK and abroad. Illustrated by Simon Rouse. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The Best Book on Pre-Christian European Religion I've Read!
...And I've read many! This book is well worth the wait. Unlike other books written on this subject (I will not name names--), Pearce writes a factual, informative book that is also interesting and easy to read. This book contains an abundance of great information, all compacted into short chapters. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to know about REAL pre-Christian belief systems and practices. This book is well worth the wait! ... Read more

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THE ISLES OF THE MANY GODS : An A-Z of the Pagan Gods & Goddesses worshipped in Ancient Britain during the first Millenium CE through to the Middle AgesBy David Rankine & Sorita D'EsteThe British Isles have long been seen as a place of mystery& magic.For many thousands of years successive wavesof invaders each brought their own gods & goddesses withthem, often assimilating the beliefs of the tribes they conquered.The Celtic races merged with the indigenous people, theywere conquered by the Romans, who brought with them deitiesfrom all over the Roman Empire (including Greece & Egypt).After them came the Saxons & other Germanic tribes, furtheradding to the rich tapestry that forms part of our spiritual heritage today.The Isles of the Many Gods brings together, for the first time, information on the worship of these deities in Britain, in aneasy to use A-Z.It includes both the native & immigrant gods& goddesses, from well known gods like Apollo, Brigit,Freya, Herne, Isis, Mars & Woden to lesser known ones like Abandinus, Arianrhod, Genii Cucullati, Midir, Vitiris & the Wheel God. There are more than 240 entries providing informationregarding the evidence of their worship in England, Wales, Scotland,Ireland & the Isle of Man.Drawing from archaeology, architecture, art, artefacts, currency, place-names & literaturethereby providing an excellent reference work for thoseinterested in the spiritual beliefs of our ancestors. About the AuthorsSorita D'Este and David Rankine are internationally recognized for their research and writing on mythology, spirituality and magickal practices of both ancient and modern times.They have collaborated on a number of projects in the past, including "The Guises of the Morrigan" and "Circle of Fire".Between them they have authored more than a dozen books, sometimes working with other authors with expertise in a particular area.In addition to books, Sorita and David have also contributed many articles to magazines, journals and websites over the years.Notably they were major contributors to the very successful D'Agostini "Enhancing Your Mind Body Spirit" partwork. They live and work in Wales (UK). For more information visit: www.avalonia.co.uk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very Good Research and Material
David Rankine and Sorita D'Este did a great researching job for this A to Z index of the many Gods and Goddesses that have been part of the culture and spirituality of the British Isles.

I have to give them big kudos for the quality of research and documentation that is included in this book.The bibliography is probably the largest I've ever seen in association with a pagan book, and it is not mostly referencing other pagan authors.Rather, this is a scholarly work, and if you have ever done any historical research on the British Isles, you will recognize some of these names.

Secondly, the explanation of the work is one of the best introductions I've ever read.Not only do we find out what the book is about, but Rankine and D'Este explain what they did, why they chose the Gods/Goddesses they chose, historical reference for their choices and a some background material that is a must have for the use of this book.

I like the layout of the book, from the front Table of Contents, to the well thought out Index, to the layout of the information on each of the Gods and Goddesses.This makes this a great reference book for anyone looking at the God and Goddesses of the British Isles.

I keep using the "British Isles" reference, because the book does not confine itself to any particular culture or island in that area.The Gods and Goddesses were introduced and evolved based on the cross cultures in that area over a period of time.The book covers all the Deities of the area, and while I did notice some obscure Deities that I did not expect, there were some I didn't recognize and reading through all the material was an education.

If your pantheon includes any of the Gods or Goddesses associated with the geographic area, this book will shed light on origins, lines of progression and some basic information on some of the lesser known Deities.The bibliography alone is worth the price of the book for further reference.Serious followers of the Ancient British traditions will find this book priceless and beginners will find the information will cover just about anything they want to know or research further.

And excellent reference book, a solid scholarly text and a marvelous research job by two people who took the time and effort to make a book worth having.Boudica

Everything you need in one book!
Wow, what a fantastic book!
I'm one of those people who, when doing research, hates to be surrounded by tons of different books searching through pages of useless info to find that 1 page that holds the information I'm looking for.
David and Sorita have done all the hard work for you here, a book that contains information on the Gods and Goddesses that were worshiped in Britain. Over 240 entries, this is a fantastic reference book.
Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
Imagine the forest. As darkness falls, the somber beeches disappear in misty twilight and shadows seem to gather under their branches. Far away, the blackbird's call tells of the coming of the night. The birds cease their singing, silence descends, soon the beasts of the night will make their appearance. Between tangled roots, hidden by nettles and brambles, the earth seems to ripple. A few humps of earth seem to emerge from the ground. They are the last traces of burial mounds, of mounds, which were tall and high 2500 years ago. Many of them have disappeared, hidden by tangled roots of beech and oak, ploughed flat by careless farmers, others again show caved-in tops where grave robbers have looted the central chamber. The locals shun these hills. There are tales that strange fires can be seen glowing on the mounds, and that on spooky nights, great armed warriors arise from their resting places. Then the doors to the deep are thrown open and unwary travelers have to beware of being invited into the halls of the dead and unborn. Here the kings of the deep feast and celebrate, time passes differently and strange treasures may be found. Who knows the nights when the gates are open?Who carries the primrose, the wish-flower, the strange blossom that opens the doors to the hollow hills? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Cauldron of the Gods: A manual of Celtic Magick
I agree this is a good book but I do have one problem. I hate to be picky but given the cost of books these days (especially this one), I will point out any bad, or flat out non-existent, editing. Though there are not too many, there a few typos and yes, even a few can ruin a good book.

I know decent editing these days is clearly a bygone idea of the past. That needs to change. It not only underscores how bad publishing companies have gotten but again, it makes the author look really bad. Those who self publish need to be extra careful themselves or risk losing customers. It is not easy making a living at writing books as it is.

Nice collection of history and good ideas if you can look past the usual bad editing on someone's part. Publishing companies and self-publishers can do better. After all, we paid for it. ... Read more

Product Description
Serious students of Druidism and Paganism, as well as Celtic historians, are sure to include Barddas in their libraries. Barddas contains the only extant description of Bardo-Druidic Celtic philosophy. It is a metaphysical and spiritual description of beliefs handed down by word of mouth by Druidic initiates from before the Roman occupation of the British Isles.

Culled from 16th-century notes and compiled into book form, Barddas reveals a belief system with a wide range of influences, including Judeo-Christian and ancient Roman. Yet there are beliefs and views expressed within that appear to be unique to Celtic thought and oddly similar to Eastern traditions.

On its publication in the 19th century, Barddas stirred controversy. Some critics claimed that it was completely made up or based on forgeries. Others defended it by pointing out similarities to other surviving Celtic documents with clear provenance.

Photo-offset from the first-printing, this edition of Barddas includes the original Welsh on verso pages with English translation running on the recto pages. John Matthews, popular writer about all things Celtic, provides an introduction outlining the history and contemporary importance of Barddas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Yeah IolO..
Go Iolo! Hey this is a work of beautiful prose in beautiful language..Can you say beautiful prose and thoughts of the Druids and noble beautiful beliefs written in a noble language? Hey..Get your heads out, and read this, there arent many Druid texts out there, let's not fight so much about who wrote this, but love the text for it's wisdom and rich traditions, and the beauty of language, and the teaching of language, or the english translation goes side by side with the other(gaelic?..The Druid beliefs is whats so beautiful..) text in places.

Well worth serious reading
Weiser deserve credit for making this reprint of the 'Barddas' available. A word of warning: unless you can read Welsh (and archaic Welsh, at that), it is unwise to scoff at the Barddas. Iolo Morganwg (Williams)had his foibles - yes, but that is no reason to discredit his work. It has been alleged that 'Iolo' fabricated much of the material found in the Barddas, but the National College Library in Wales(Aberystwyth) is full of such material. I did a preliminary survey of it - back in 1972, and was staggered by the amount available, as rich and mysterious, in its own way, as anything retrieved from far-flung caves in Tun-huang, or the sands of Egypt. Both in style and content, much found in the Barddas will be found stated - all over again, in Welsh sources untouched by Iolo Morganwg. Condescendingly, John Matthews introduction to the Weiser reprint, states that Iolo's ideas were 'clearly a product of laudanum inspired dreams' (p. xviii), even while conceding that it might contain some 'nuggets' of ancient wisdom. etc. So far as the Laudanum habit goes, it might be pointed out that it was then legal and fairly widespread among the gentry. Such matters are rarely invoked to criticise Coleridge, De Quincy, Conan-Doyle etc. W.Y. Evans-Wentz - no less, a Rhodes scholar, renowned for his work on the 'Tibetan Book of the Dead' - also happened to know Britain well. In his Celtic researches (cf. The Fairy Faith in Celtic Countries) - W.Y. Evans-Wentz deemed the Barddas to be a genuine and valuable source.

Pure fiction passed off as fact
It has been well documented that Iolo forged his "authentic manuscripts".He made up rituals and history and took other religious practices and re-worked them and claimed them to be authentically Druidic.

I have no problem with change and the ability to create, but I find it abhorrant to do so and then claim it as historical fact. ... Read more

Product Description
This book contains fifty songs that celebrate the Goddess, magic, love, and adventure. Each song includes chord charts, key signatures, melody lines, and is accompanied by a story, tale or piece of Pagan lore set down in Hugin's elegant calligraphy. Includes a compact disc.Amazon.com Review
A book that contains as much learning as fun is a rare gem,and Hugin's book is a treasure you will certainly want to add to yourcollection. Part storybook and part songbook, A Bard's Book ofPagan Songs takes you on an adventure through the Mabinogion (acollection of Welsh tales of heroism and romance), celebrates thewheel of the year, and affirms the significance of the paganheritage. These songs make an excellent accompaniment to festivalcelebrations, and they are a fun way to learn some of the importantaspects of paganism. Hugin tells the story behind each song, followedby words and music so that playing them is as easy as picking up yourguitar. The included CD gives a feel for how some of the songs couldbe played and showcases Hugin's considerable talent, which has earnedhim the title of bard. Be careful when you listen: Hugin's exuberanceis contagious, and you may find yourself singing along or even dancinga jig. --Brian Patterson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Toe Tapping fun
Singers / Bards / Pagans take note this book is great. The songs will have you singing along and tapping your toes. The text is great. There is in deapth information about many of the songs both personal and historical. For students of early history in the British Isles especialy those with an understaning or an interest in the Mabinogian this is a wonderfull resource. Hugin is able to re-tell many of the stories in the Bardic tradition allowing easy understanding of the many twists and turns inherant to the tales.

Turn off the TV, tune up the guitar, have a great night.

60's bard
Ok, it's my fault. I didn't look at the back cover before buying. I trusted the title and other reviews. However, if your idea of bard/pagan is Pete Seeger and Country Joe McDonald, then this is the book for you. It's 60's Smothers Brothers/Clancy Brothers stuff - fine, except that's not what I was expecting. And, it's been done a million times before...hmmm...is this why this book is out of print? (And gee, couldn't they have at least performed a couple tunes in a different key?)

Great!
This is a wonderful book! You learn so much, not to mention its fun! My only critism is the font "A Bard's Book of Pagan Songs: Stories and Music from the Celtic World" was printed in, its kinda hard to read. Makes your eyes hurt after a bit. But, other than that, I had no problems whatsoever with this book. I reccommend it to all pagans and anyone who wants to learn more about Celtic paganism's history.

Fun and interesting
This is definitely a "topic specific" book, but if it's the topic you're looking for then you're in for a treat.

The author proceeds each musical score with a brief story about which the song is based. It's not cluttered with a lot of personal yarns. Very enjoyable. The CD is a great bonus!

Suitable for after-rite Entertainment
It was wonderful to hear the tales structured and set to music much like stories must have been presented in pre-literate times.The music even sounds like the old folk-song modes.Good CD to play while feasting after ritual and then good songs to play while the mead and ale are passed! ... Read more

Product Description
In this down-to-earth, inspiring guide, Philip Carr-Gomm offers a name for this Path that draws on the common beliefs and practices of both Druidry and Wicca. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

THE WORST
I ordered this book and a month later the book still had not arrived I emailed them about 5 times and they only responded once they said it was lost in the mail but I read other reviews and they said that for many of them too. THE WORST EXPERIENCE I HAVE EVER HAD THROUGH AMAZON. I wouldnt order from this person again even if they had the last copy of a book!

Druidry, Witchcraft, and the Ovate
There are many within Druidry in general and the OBOD in particular who came from Wicca. Many of these folks have said that Druidry seemed to be a natural progression in their education and direction as pertains to the magic and religion of the Celtic peoples. But why?

The Ovates were the witches, if you will, of the Celtic peoples. The word Ovate comes from the Irish word Fáith which means Seer or one who has the Second Sight i.e. the ability to communicate with the dead and even the power of prophesy. These folks were also known as Piseog (witch) who practiced Piseogacht or witchcraft. The Piseog/Fáith was a local healer, wise or cunning person, and philosopher.

They were a blessing to those who were suffering and a terror to those who were their enemy. Through dispensing herbs to relieve common symptoms they could be very powerful healers. They were also able to speak with those who have passed beyond, relieving the stress of those left behind both for their hopes of better things and their own hopes for a continuation of life. The Piseog/Fáith therefore studied most especially the process of death and dying, and generally things unseen. Considering the above I can see why Wiccans seek to understand the practice of Witchcraft of the ancient Celtic peoples and in turn their religion which we call Druidry.

We can never know what ancient Druidry was really like because we do not know how it related within its ancient social contexts. We can know some particulars but never the full picture and so anyone thinking otherwise is just deluding themselves. However...

Druidry is seeing a come back, albeit a modern one, because people like Ross Nichols. These folks dared to be druids when it wasn't popular or convenient. People aught to thank them instead of vilify them. My question is what have you done that is as good or better? (People always hate mirrors turned on them) Druidry today, has become an acceptible spiritual path in the eyes of many Britians including its aristocracy because of the uprightness of heart and rectitude of conduct of the folks leading it.

I do not think Philip intended to create a seperate path but to show that within Druidry the path of Witchcraft/Seership is already present. Wiccans coming into Druidry do not have to leave what they learned and loved behind but can practice that which speaks to them and continue along a Druidic path.

Considering all the above I must give this book 5 stars.

There is NO such thing as "druidcraft"!
Fellow readers...be warned: Ther are few TRUE druids around...This author, like Ross Nichols and I. Bonewits are Not druids. These people are at the forefront of a pathetic movement they call "Neo-Druidism"......Nonsense! Although Wicca has taken much from druidism....They are Not the same...You Can NOT be both!...They created this sad subject, only to put themselves at the top of it. These are the same fools who prance around stonehenge in white robes(believing the druids built it!)...Letting photographers "take their picture". (like any true druid would even consider such public demonstrations!!)
Stay Away from this foolishness!!!

Its Been Done...
If you've read "In the Grove of the Druids" by Philip Carr-Gomm and Ronald Hutton, then you probably know of the established links between Ross Nichols and Gerald Gardner, the fathers of modern Druidry and Witchcraft respectively. In that book, two very respected authors reveal to the world that the modern incarnation of Wicca is, in fact, a combination of the two separate religious and magical styles: Druidry and Witchcraft. So, if Druidry and Witchcraft have already been combined to form modern Wicca, why combine the systems again? If you wish to combine the systems of Druidry and Witchcraft without reading through tome after tome of Celtic Wiccan fluff, read about the two separate systems and combine them yourself. This book is just a watered-down time-saver.

A good basic book
An interesting basic book, but I wish there was more to it. I really enjoyed it, but it didn't have a lot of information to follow up on. Would recommend for an interesting read and for anyone checking into the possibilities of Druidcraft. ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
Modern Druidry is a spiritual path that is close to nature. The wheel of the year is followed by druids and each group and individual has their own ways of doing this. It is a varied and intensely interesting path practiced by many people world wide. Many organizations exists such as the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids, The Ancient Order of Druids in America, Ar nDraiocht Fein, The Henge of Keltria, The Order of the Mithril Star, and many more. "Under an Expanse of Oaks, A Druid's Journey" is a book about one Druid's path and the many lessons learned along that path. It contains various explanations and exercises to help the reader experience Druidry for themselves; because Druidry is certainly an experiential journey that one truly needs to live to learn from. David P. Smith (Duir) has dedicated his life since the age of 18 to the study of Druidry in all its forms and follows the deities of the Celtic Pantheon. He also teaches at the Grey School of Wizardry online (http://www.greyschool.com ), and runs a Druidry and related studies website at http://www.oaklight.org . He lives in Rhode Island with his family and enjoys traveling to sacred places throughout the US and the world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Everyone's journey
"Under An Expanse of Oaks: A Druid's Journey" by Rev. David P. Smith is a fantastic and concise introduction to Druidry.Rev. Smith takes us on an exploration of Druid beliefs, sacred sites,and sacred plants of the Druids.

I've read Bonewit's book on Druids, and I could not tell you if I liked it or not. I didn't have that problem with Rev. Smith's book. I liked it. I liked it a lot.

While the book is a diminutive 126 pages, it is packed with tons of info. I think that one of the most impressive parts of the book was the appendix. The appendix contains an impressive list of the mailing addresses of various Druidic orders. It also has a nice bibliography and suggested reading list.

I was really impressed with Smith's thoughts on Cyber Druidry or perhaps we should call it "E-Druidry.""Authors and teachers from all paths can be reached through this medium as well and can be an endless source of wisdom."

All in all, I found it to be an excellent book. I give it 4 1/2 stars.

I received this complimentary book from Rev. David Smithfor review purposes.

In serious need of an editor/proofreader
This book has the potential to be a decent beginning resource, with some excellent and very helpful information in it. Unfortunately, it reads like a first draft, which is why I am only giving it 3 stars. I read the Kindle edition, so I can only hope the print edition is not this badly prepared. It is literally peppered with mistakes in grammar, word confusion (e.g., effect vs. affect, bough vs. bow), extraneous words that make no sense in context, missing words, sentences run together without punctuation, misspellings, etc. All this is very distracting to someone with a good command of the language, and has to be confusing for anyone reading it as a second language. I really would expect a Druid to be more meticulous about the details.

The information in about the first third of the book is generally suitable for a beginner on any spiritual path. I found the entries on the Celtic gods and goddesses, working with the elements and the visualization-meditations useful, even inspired in spots. Tree and plant lore is well done in terms of content, as far as it went.The comments on the nature of enlightenment and explanation of the concept of Awen were thought-provoking. The bibliography is pretty thorough and even online resources are offered. Those parts saved this messy little tome from a 1 star rating.

Excellent book on Druidry!
This is an excellent book on Druidry by a Practicing Druid Priest. It covers the basics you need to find your own path along the traditions of the Druids and answers many questions for those curious and want to learn more. It even has enough substance to satisfy those who are not new to the ideas presented. Bravo to Duir for his work here, and I hope to see much more of his work in the future. --Matt ... Read more

Product Description
In "Stations of the Sun" and "The Triumph of the Moon", Ronald Hutton established himself as a leading authority on the historian of Paganism. His wealth of unusual knowledge, complemented by a deep and sympathetic understanding of past and present beliefs that are often dismissed as strange or marginal, and an ability to write lucidly and wittily, gives his work a unique flavour. The essays which make up "Witches, Druids and King Arthur" cover elegantly and entertainingly a wide range of beliefs, myths and practices. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A serious collection of essays on often misunderstood topics
These collected essays examine mainly pagans past and present. The title may be pitching an historian's scholarship more widely. For Hutton, the leading expounder of the discontinuity between modern and ancient paganism, such a wider audience may welcome his work.

The essays are uneven in length and scope, and at times some drag. I found my attention wandering on and off, but I admit far less interest in magic than witches, say, and more in Druids than the Renaissance, for example. But all chapters make thoughtful points, and Hutton phrases his judgments with tact and care. He delves into controversial subjects and dismantles falsity. The title and cover may evoke an occult or stereotyped overview of these subjects, but these are advanced essays, geared for the educated reader. Perhaps those less knowledgeable may finish these thoughtful pages with a greater respect for an historian's approach to mythmaking.

"How Myths are Made" takes on the British Isles. Kilts, atrocity tales from the English Civil War, native Irish resistance, or "traditional" Welsh dress, among many examples, can be shown to be fabricated rather than verifiable products from long ago. I found some of his discussion on Irish republicanism, the topic closest to my own studies, to be at times overstated and simplified. But he does resurrect a broad range of delightful anecdotes to elaborate his contentions. As in: the faithful hound-legend of Beddgelert, how the Russians were supposed to have been coming to English ports early in WWI, Margaret Mead's islanders, Melville's "Typee," or how 120years seems to be the maximum length one can "trust" any orally transmitted memory.

The next two essays explore Arthurian lore, first how recent academia treats the historicity of Arthur, and then how Glastonbury became a New Age center full of dubious dabblers. The fourth one looks at length into "the New Old Paganism" and seeks to find how monotheism began to supplant polytheism among non-Christians in later antiquity. "Paganism in the Lost Centuries" examines strands of ancient belief that may have become enshrined, so to speak, in the Christian-dominated culture. These two are both densely written studies. For more on this field, by an author whom Hutton barely touches upon, see Pierre Chuvin's "Chronicles of the Last Pagans." (Also reviewed by me on Amazon US recently.)

"A Modest Look at Ritual Nudity" tries to find if this practice, contrary to Hutton's earlier thinking that only Wiccans practiced it regularly as worship, and not any ancient cult, may have existed way back. The evidence of course may be suspect as often we only have detractors to track for such charges. Yet Hutton shows here as throughout his scholarship an appealing open-mindedness to sift through masses of difficult sources on touchy subjects to find what seems most likely true.

For Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, Hutton returns to their familiar stories to find more pagan foundations than many Christian apologists do for their mythologies. Hutton argues that in the tension between their faith and their love of pagan tales and multiple gods, the two Inklings gained the power that marks their best work. Especially for Tolkien, Hutton reminds us that except for an "accident of publication" (231), the Middle Earth we know would have been preceded by the origin and creation myths of the gods later assembled after his death into "The Silmarillion," and if that work had been put out first, we'd likely read differently the rather understated mindset and populated mythos within "The Lord of the Rings."

In retrospect given two works on the ancient and modern Druids, published later this decade, Hutton's "The New Druidry" appears to be a warm-up for these books. He notes how 200 years of a "dream of syncretic universalism" for pagans in the wake of Romanticism appears to be waning. We see emerging in its place a more localized, land-based practice as becoming grounded by those reclaiming and reinventing "the old native religions." (249)

My favorite essay, "Living with Witchcraft," serves as a coda for his most famous study, "The Triumph of the Moon" (1999). This was the first serious history of modern British neopaganism. Hutton contrasts the patient reception it gained among current witches and pagans-- even as it revised their own origin myths often-- vs. the fears, contempt, and ridicule indulged in by many of his academic colleagues when they learned he studied witches and witchcraft. Even with tenure, he felt his career often at risk when engaging in sensitive research into what's a misunderstood, denigrated, and/or too overdramatized yet very under-explored topic.

Hutton reminds us, for some need so, of how past scholars fumbled their investigations into witchcraft. He shows how professors have toyed with their informants from the pagan community, and how cautiously he then had to tread to keep the confidences he established. His ethics and probity speak well for his difficulties, as he relates in compelling detail how controversial witches remain for the British audience. When learned clerics and esteemed dons scoff at the legitimacy of such research, one can only suppose how everyday folks regard witches and neo-pagans among them. Hutton represents the first sustained attempt to teach the public and the professoriate about the truth of modern witchcraft and its reasons for the same respect accorded other religious practices by today's neighbors.

By the way, the "nine million" supposedly executed in "Burning Times" for their "Old Religion" are shown an extrapolation of a 1793 figure of "9,442,994" from a unnamed local historian in the first chapter. (30) In this final section, Hutton shows how "Triumph of the Moon" sought a more sober revision of inflated discussion of witches past and present. (He estimates 40-50,000 probably died for witchcraft in Europe during Christian hegemony. [31])

essential
I don't have the time for a detailed review, but Hutton is simply brilliant. He's a bit of a Columbo detective and never stops digging to get as close to the truth as possible. Eventually he does have to admit that sometimes we cannot proclaim the truth despite what particular historical adherents wish. In a nutshell, for anyone wanting a richer understanding of the historical evidence of this subject, this book with its marvellous research is essential. For the most part, it is accessible to non-academic readers as well! Bravo!

Another great book from an honored scholar
This book is another compelling, if challenging entry from honored pagan scholar Ronald Hutton.Professor Hutton has brought us previous scholar tomes including The Triumph of the Moon, a history of modern paganisem in Britain, and the historical survey, The Pagan Religions of the British Isles, and Stations of the Sun, a history of the ritual year in Britain.

As anyone who have read Hutton before will know the Professor's published work aims for the general reading audience, though without doubt an educated one.However, the challenges of reading Hutton are worth it, and it is no less so than in this reviewed work.

The books only flaw, in my opinion, is the fact that this is not a continous work at all, but a collection of essays that the writer feels are related to each other.This is most true, though a couple, essays on ritual nudity and on the pagan elements in the writings of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein, are interesting though they don't seem to fit within the general theme indicated by the title.The rest of the fascinating essays cover: How Myths are Made, Arthur and the Academics, Glastonbury: Alternative Histories, and histories of medieval and modern paganism.

In the end, this is a book not to be missed.The discussion is lively and the information is profound.I heartily recommend this book.

Irrelevant twaddle presented as scholarship.
This volume of Hutton's scholarship on pagan topics appears to be a collection of essays that were written over several years and have been assembled into a book format with little or no thought to common ground.Hutton displays his very pronounced literary centric view of history, anything that wasn't written, or the writing didn't survive, didn't happen.For example, in the chapter on "Paganism in the lost centuries, Hutton goes on and on about some irrelevant Middle Eastern city which may or may not have sheltered pagans among other religions.While that might be of interest to some Middle Eastern medievalist scholars, it has absolutely nothing to do with the history of western paganism.In his "Modest look at Ritual Nudity," Hutton accurately points out that Wicca is very unique in its use of nudity, and astutely understands that Wiccan nudity helps to separate the serious religious seeker from the casual wannabe.However, Hutton goes on and on with more irrelevant twaddle about ancient Greek art and Roman nudity.Overall it displays what Hutton admits to be his "religion," scholarship based on writing as the sacred.It is perhaps a good book for those who share Hutton's "religious" views about the sacredness of the written word, and the corresponding lack value of anything not written.I rate it a 3 because he has some interesting things to say, but seems to lack real understanding of his topic.

Hit and Myth
Collections of essays by major historians can be a mixed bag.Ronald Hutton's new collection is one of the better ones.This is a collection of nine essays where Hutton tries to shed light on the murky world of magic and myth.The book begins with an essay on how myths were made, and then follows withtwo essays on King Arthur and Glastonbury.The next two essays deal with the problem of modern paganism and its connection to ancient paganism.The first deals with ancient paganism and the second deals with its convoluted path to the present day.Then we have a chapter on the existence of ritual nudity, one on Christianity in C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, one on modern druids and a final chapter on Hutton's experience writing his previous book on modern witchcraft.

What is the result of this interesting concoction?Let's start off with some problems.The essay on druidism is somewhat dry and is largely about complicated internal squabbles among modern druids.The opening chapter starts off by pointing out how modern Celtic nationalism is based on myths.We learn about the story (first told by Hugh Trevor-Roper, to whom the book is dedicated) of how the kilt was not the ancestral uniform of the Highlanders but was designed by an English businessman in Scotland in the 1700s who wanted more convenient clothing.Much of the origins of Welsh and Cornish nationalism come from romantic English sympathizers.But the discussion of Irish nationalism is disappointing.Who, after all, is Hutton trying to refute in pointing out that many nationalists have English, Norman and Protestant origins? Everyone in Ireland knows that Wolfe Tone and Parnell were Protestants.It is Unionism, not Republicanism, that defines Irish nationalism as no more than a whining Catholic sectarianism.And Hutton's deflation of the "myth" of Drogheda, based mostly on one contentious recent monograph, ignores the hundreds of thousands who died in the course of Cromwell's supression of the Irish rebellion.Finally there is a certain undue sympathy towards the mystics and magicians he is covering.In his deflation of the remarkable claims about Glastonbury Abbey, that Arthur's bones are buried there and that it is where Joseph of Arimathea came to England, he goes out of his way to suggest that they could conceivably be true.At one point he refers to modern paganism as an "entirely valid religion" that, notwithstanding its claims to the contrary, dates no earlier than the first decades of the twentieth century.That is all very liberal and tolerant, but one wonders what an "invalid religion" would be like.

Having said that however, much of the rest of the book is interesting and useful.To turn back to the opening chapters on myths, not only do we learn of the origins of the quite false statistic that nine million people were killed in the witch trials, we also learn of the limits of oral history.Contrary to what many people have thought, oral traditions become dramatically less accurate after a century or so.Hutton goes on to describe how he tried to use oral traditions to supplement his earlier histories of the English civil war and was maddeningly unsuccessful.Sir Henry Ireton supposedly defends the honor of a daughter he did not have, Oliver Cromwell dies a non-existent violent death, Charles II's fate is confused with his father's, major events go by with some areas completely forgetting them, while others "remember" non-existent romantic trivia.Meanwhile the Cornish, who in the 16th century rebelled against the rise of Protestantism, now remember themselves as Protestant heroes.We also learn the most recent research on King Arthur.The earliest reference to him comes in the early ninth century.In the seventies there was a surge of archaeological research which supposedly proved Arthur's existence.Hutton shows that it proved nothing of the sort, but is cautious about the idea that Arthur never existed.We also learn how Tolkein'sand Lewis' fantasies deviate from Christianity.In the two chapters on late paganism we learn about the traditions of late paganism and how they were transferred to the modern day.There is much talk about neoplatonism and the mysterious Sabians and the Arabian city of Harran, but Hutton is clear in showing that there was no direct continuous tradition from either source.When some of this neoplatonism surfaced in the twelfth and fifteenth centuries, they were mostly used by intellectuals who wished to use classical insights to strengthen Christianity.Hutton reminds us that the old distinction between religion (supplication to a God) and magic (invoking divine power for one's own ends) is still possible and still alive.Although modern pagans use ideas from neoplatonic and Egyptian magic, Hutton notes the contrast between modern optimism and late classical pessimism, the abstinence of the past with the sexuality of today, as well as the modern Pagan appeal to the people and the strictly minority and mysterious nature of the late paganism they invoke.There are many strange areas of the past that have been ignored by historians and are now dangerously infested with cranks.Ronald Hutton is a fine guide to these obscure areas. ... Read more

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Enjoy a journey through 2010 with The Gorgeous Women of the Moon, packed with articles and information on the moon and the role it has played and still plays in women's lives. This full colour Moon Diary is brought to life with beautiful images featuring poetry and art from the Gorgeous Women themselves. ... Read more

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30th Anniversary Edition. New Introduction and Notes.This thought-provoking book suggests that certain basic images found in traditional songs, and certain musical phrases linked inseparably with them, were once common to Celtic-and indeed, pre-Celtic-forms of worship, and were only later absorbed in Christian ritual. To support his theory R.J. Stewart analyses in depth five well-known folksongs-all of them collected originally in the West Country-and examines the 'hidden' meaning of their words in relation to pagan myth and ritual; while in a section on 'Musical Considerations' he demonstrates how plainsong, the basis of formal music, developed from folk-music roots. By comparing these songs with other examples and by drawing upon mythology, classical parallels, early church records, oral lore and poetical intuition to illustrate his argument, the author shows clearly that the key to folksong tradition is the primitive consciousness from which it arose. ... Read more

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By far the most interesting of the peoples that formerly inhabited Ireland were the Tuaths, or Tuatha de Danaans, or Dananns. There is much mystery about them in Irish traditions. They were men, gods, or fairies. They came, of course, from the East, calling in at Greece on the way, so as to increase their stock of magic and wisdom. Some trace them to the tribes of Dan, and note Dedan in Ezek. xxv. 13. In their invasion of Ireland, Tuaths had to deal with the dark aborigines, known as the Firbolgs, and are said to have slain 100,000 at the battle of Magh-Tuireadh Conga. Driven off the island by their foes, they travelled in the East, returning from their exile as finished magicians and genuine Druids... ... Read more

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No more touching or inspiring belief was there among the ancient Irish, than in the hope of another life beyond the grave. Nature restored the dead forest of winter to the wealth of foliage in spring, why should not the breathless form of man once more find joy in life? The soul of the Maori, it was said, took its flight to the Reinga, the northernmost promontory of New Zealand. The dying Egyptian beheld with the eye of faith his spirit following the setting sun. The Irish looked forward to the West as the place to which his ethereal nature would take its flight. The roar of the Atlantic was music to a son of Erin's ears, for it was but the echo of the voices of his forefather and departed loved ones, in the western Land of the Blest... ... Read more

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More than ever, people are tapping into their spirituality through the use of ritual. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Interesting Look at Druidry and Druid Rituals
One previous reviewer of this book opined that this is not a book about "textbook rituals." And that is likely true. It is more a book that examines the reasons for having all the various Celtic festival rituals and the traditions surrounding them, along with the framework for having Druid rituals to begin with than it is as a book that "tells you how to hold your ritual." The book at times will be a challenging read if you read it with the assumption it will tell you how to do a Celtic ritual. Yes Orr offers suggestions on holding various holiday rituals, but they are guidelines to go by, not an actual "ritual template."

From the book's beginning, Orr takes time to explain in her words what a ritual is and spends the next several chapters discussing topics like Druidry itself, the language of it, setting, tools and offerings, etc. Towards the book's end, she devotes chapters to the rituals themselves, be it an "everyday ritual," a "holiday ritual," or other assorted ones. She also writes about rituals she has attended, the settings of them, the preparation, what went on and so forth. These examples emphasize points she is trying to make in various parts of the book.

This is a book well worth reading for anyone studying the Celtic path. It's disappointing to note this book is apparently now out of print.

Don't buy it for the rituals.
For a book called "Ritual" the least compelling part of the book were the rituals.While I thought the book was overlong and perhaps a bit too poetic for my taste, what I liked about it was that it made me think about the rituals I was putting together.I was disappointed that Orr's rituals were not very interesting but she did give me a lot to think about, especially in the beginning chapters.I would suggest reading the first few chapters and then stopping before the rituals (which tends to be the opposite thing to do for most magic books!). Not a must-buy but is worth a read.

A Refreshing and Personal Look at Ritual and Druidry
Emma's works are like a conversation with a good friend, and "Ritual" is no exception.While it is by no means a textbook or in-depth look at Druidry itself, it examines the personal benefits of simple ritual practice - of taking a break in your ordinary life - but with a strong yet underlying druidic theme.I have found it to be a welcome break from the many books that focus mainly on druid lore.This is a simple book that draws us closer to an every-day druid practice that is not in the least intimidating or bogged down with too much information or history... there are plenty of other books for info and history. The focus here is clearly on very simple and personal rituals, encouraging creativity, a sense of peace, andcommunion with the world around us.Extremely helpful and encouraging - one of my favorites.

ZZZzzzz zZZZZzzzzZZzzzz
Boring... A story.This book isn't about Rituals, It's about "The art of rituals".Don't make the mistake of buying this book as a good source for learning rituals.

Enjoyable and Inspiring
I didn't think twice about ordering this book.Spirits of the Sacred Grove was one of the most moving works I've read.Ritual lacks some of the personal touch that Spirits had, though.I'm sure most of this stems from the different purposes for the two books.

I certainly reccommend this to anyone who is interested in learning more about the practice of modern druidry.As one would expect from the title, this book is very focused on the creation of rituals--for all situations in life.Orr is very good at not setting down a textbook style, this-is-how-to-act-and-what-to-say manual.Her emphasis is always on personal creativity, and allowing the ritual to come from within you.I certainly found some inspiration and many good ideas.I was also glad to see Orr's insistance that rituals need not be planned or held at specific moments. She gives special emphasis to the simple things we do on an everyday basis, that may not immediately seem to be "rituals", but are in fact important moments of recognition, thanksgiving or prayer. However, I would warn those who have read Spirits of the Sacred Grove not to expect the same level of poetry and beauty that Orr was able to convey through that book.And for those who have not read Spirits, by all means, do so. ... Read more

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"The Green Man invites us to rejoin him in the ongoing dance of the seasons, to celebrate the strength of greenness and its ability to transform our lives into something richer and sweeter."He's known as Green Jack, Puck, the Green Knight, Pan, Robin Hood, and the Jolly Green Giant, and likely many more names lost in the mists of time. The Green Man is an ancient symbol of nature and fertility and wildness, whose leafy image can be seen today on buildings and in artwork from various cultures all over the world. This gift box is a wonderful introduction to the Green Man and all that he represents. With 25 full-color images from throughout the ages and across cultures, the book traces the many strands of the legend - from the first agrarian people of the ancient world to our own time when the Green Man has become an unofficial icon for the environmental movement.A uniquely crafted plaque depicting the Green Man in his benign guise completes the package. The plaque was specially designed for this kit and will provide a whimsical touch of nature in the garden, on the patio, or in any room in the house. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The Green Man Spirit of Nature
This is a small book with fewer pictures than most of my Green Man and Wood Spirit books.It offers a short history of the Green Man, and plates with colorful appeal. And it comes with a real Green Man sclupture for your home or garden. This is a small book, but the sclupture was worth the price of the book.

Great combination of book and mask
The book contains an excellent overview of "Greenman" legends and examples from multiple historical periods, from the past, through the present.
The mask is a marvelous, thoroughly detailed and carefully painted sample of a "Greenman" face.
A delightful combination of literature and sculpture.

Holds the history of the Green Man
John Matthews' Green Man: Spirit Of Nature is a difficult set to easily categorize: it's a gift book which blends a 64-page book with a crafted plaque depicting the Green Man figure - also known as Pan and Robin Hood. The book holds the history of the Green Man, myths and legends that surround the figure, and over twenty images of the Green Man taken across cultures over time.

A lovely presentation
When I first saw this book offered in the Red Wheel/Weiser catalogue, I was so glad to see a book on the Green Man and I requested it for review immediately.I didn't realize this was a gift set, and it came as a very delightful surprise.

The box contained a small photo book and a Green Man sculptured plaque.The plaque was on top, a dark rich green, handsome face nestled in the sculpted leaves.Very nicely produced, he would look great anywhere you happen to want to hang him up.This is a very nice addition to this presentation.

But the book, which is small in appearance, is packed with Green Man trivia and photos of various depictions of the Green Man. Mr. Matthews knows his stuff when it comes to the many myths and traditions associated with the Green Man. I was impressed with the research done by Mr. Matthews in finding the many places where there are some impressive Green Man representations.Pictures of carvings, building ornaments, paintings, even furniture featuring the image of the Green Man are included here.There is also a meditation and suggestions for honoring the Green Man in various environments in your life.The quality printing and gloss paper make this book a small treasure on its own.

For those of you who find the Green Man as special as I do, this book is a wonderful resource on the lore, history and mystery that the Green Man holds.The plaque will also find a place in your home or garden or office, and will please you as much as the book will.This would make a great gift for that special person who reveres the Green Man as much as you do.

Evoking the Spirit of Nature
This is a wonderful little gift set that contains a sculpted plaque of the Green Man and a colorful and detailed hard cover book about the Green Man in history, legend, myth and in modern times.The artistry used in creating the plaque is excellent and the deep dark green face of this god of the Green World is happily wild and makes a wonderful addition to a home where Nature is respected and loved.
The book, though small, contains an abundance of information and photographs and images from art of the Green Man in his various guises. John Matthews, one of the leading authorities on the subject of the Green Man treats us to a good sampling of the attributes of this Spirit of Nature as he describes his influence in the art and spirituality of several cultures from around the world. He traces the Green Man from his early roots among ancient agrarian peoples to his fame as a decorative device upon countless cathedrals and other buildings throughout the world. The book also tells of the resurgance of The Green Man's popularity in modern times and his role in the protection of the threatened green world. There is a lovely "walking meditation" included in the book and many suggestions on how to incorporate the Green Man into your own spiritual life. In the back of the book is a list of locations throughout the world where the Green Man can be spotted.
My favorite part of the book is the lovely selection of photographs of the various interpretations of the Green Man. This is a perfect gift set for anyone interested in the Green Man or in Ecology.Gardeners will love it.People embarking on new beginnings will be blessed by it. Old friends of the Green Man will welcome it and people who are meeting him for the first time will be treated to a wonderful introduction.I recommend it. ... Read more