Amazon.com
This is a book that was recommended to me, and I have to admit that it is one of the best scholarly texts on the history of European Pagan religions. Jones and Pennick trace the evolution of Pagan religions in Greece and Rome, the religions of the Celts, Paganism in Germany and the Balkans, and the current Pagan revival. Filled with concise information and illustrations which add to the content rather than distracting from it, I'm sure I'll be referring to this book again in the future.
Book Description
A History of Pagan Europe is the definitive study of the indigenous religions of Europe and their practices, beliefs and customs. Establishing Paganism as a persistent force in European history with a profound influence on modern thinking, Prudence Jones and Nigel Pennick divide Europe into five broad cultural areas and traces the expression and development of Pagan religion in each of them from earliest times to present day. From the serpent goddesses of ancient Crete to modern nature worship and the restoration of the indigenous religions of Eastern Europe, this wide-ranging book offers an often provocative new perspective of European history.
Customer Reviews:
Thorough.......2007-03-02
This is a very comprehnsive review of what is known historically of Paganism in pre-Christian and Christian Europe. Although a great deal is known about Classical Paganism, the book is more evenly balanced with just as much, perhaps more, focus (given the relative paucity of facts) on old Northern European Paganism. Although the authors are, as it happens, pagans, it is a very thoroughly researched and scholarly book, without modern myth and vastly extrapolated speculation that one finds in some spiritually-based books posing as factual scholarly works. And yet the authors are not afraid to do a little reasonable (in my view) speculation about transformed relics of pagan ritual and beliefs surviving in folk culture. This is a good book for scholars who are looking for a broad survey of (mostly) historical European Paganism with some speculation about survivals in folk customs, and an excellent book for Neopagans who are looking for factual and scholarly works about old and ancient European Paganism and survivals in folk customs, which would be of interest to the Pagan and/or Wiccan. The book does not focus on the Neolithic.
An Illuminating Book.......2006-02-11
Jones & Pennick (J&P) present a well-documented text that provides substantial history for pagan culture, society, and religion. Their work does not challenge or argue with faith traditions. Their task is simply to offer available information about Europe's original socio-religious culture. (J&P speak only briefly to Asian and Middle Eastern influences.) Their point is to inform, not convert.
J&P begin by defining "paganism" as the original rural society and religious culture from the islands of the eastern Mediterranean (about 3000 BC). (The authors correctly point out that only after Christianity's 4th century legalization did "pagan" become synonymous with- and negatively connoted to- "non Christian".) Their narrative incorporates Greek, Roman, and Nordic influences in paganism's long history. Much of this story speaks to Christianity's medieval suppression (especially through the 5th and 11th centuries) of pagan rites and worship. By the end of the book J&P document paganism's modern emergence across the globe.
The book also proffers interesting arguments for pagan origins of various Christian characteristics and practices (i.e. Church's royal purple dating from the Etruscan -1500 BC- priestly color (p. 32), Christianity's 5th century assigning Christmas to Dec. 25th- the Mithric Day of the Unconquered Sun (p. 76), and the canonization of St. Bridget from the popular Scots/Celtic goddess Brighde (p. 101). Additionally, J&P tell of newly Christianized medieval kings' destruction of pagan culture and religion across the continent and paganism's continual resurgence through history.
The 200 page (hardback) is a quick read, especially for those unfamiliar with paganism. The book (containing 11 chapters) also includes a plethora of photographs (several in each chapter), maps, drawings, and an extensive 10 page bibliography.
This book is recommended to those hoping to understand paganism, students of religion, European historians, curious Christians, and clergy of all faiths. You will find this book illuminating.
awesome overview.......2005-10-27
This ADF approved text proved to be very enjoyable. Not only was it more educational than it's slim 220 pages would lead you to believe, it was also well written and not at all dry. This book is perfect for anyone wanting a broad spectrum treatment of pagan europe as well as having descriptive chapters on the Greeks, Romans, Celts, Germanic, Baltic, Russian and Baltic.
There was a certain sort of comfort reading this book as well. For one, we are shown how much paganism persisted even into modern times. As a modern day pagan, I often feel like a salmon swimming upstream against the current, but the book shows how paganism didn't just fall over like a leaf to the wind to the forces of Christianity. It fought back, persisted and even resurged over and over again. The current resurgance of paganism in modern times then seems like it is just part of the wave, rather than an isolated uprising.
Also, I found curious to note that much of ADF's focus on the Kindred would seem to be found here. The authors note again and again the pagan worship of ancestors, spirits and gods, just as we modern Druids in the order do. Additional mentions of the World Tree as well as a plethora of cauldrons and wells, further illustrates the firm grounding of our path in the past, not made up in its entirety.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable book, actually, proving that history does not have to be boring. It's presented in an interesting fashion and it's (deceptively) short length hides the wealth of knowledge to be gained here.
A good summary of the history of Paganism in Europe.......2005-03-25
This is a survey about the history of Paganism in Europe since Roman times.
There's some material about the traditional Goddesses, Gods, and worship in various parts of Europe. And there's material about what happened to Pagan customs when the Christians took over. Some, such as maypoles and caroling, appear to have survived.
I got the feeling from reading the book that Pagans were simply too tolerant to do well in the fight against the Christians. The Christians weren't tolerant at all, and so they tended to win battles against the Pagans. Of course, having a worse product to sell, the Christians had to fight to have any chance.
There were decisive defeats for the Pagans in the Roman Empire in the fifth century, including the brutal murder of Hypatia. And then, in 782 AD came a severe blow to Paganism in Western Europe: Charlemagne murdered 4500 Pagans who preferred death to conversion. Within three centuries, Scandinavia converted to Christianity, and that basically left Lithuania as the lone Pagan holdout in Europe. Pagans fled to Lithuania, but eventually the Christians took over there as well.
What did the triumph of Christianity mean? Well, I think it meant that people gave up the worship of the Goddesses and Gods in favor of a foreign atheistic religion, namely Christianity. It meant abandoning local and private worship in favor of an autocratic religious tyranny. I think the book glosses over the loss of freedom involved in giving up Paganism.
The book then recounts Pagan reaffirmation in Europe. There isn't much to that. A few Lithuanians stayed loyal to their old traditions into the eighteenth century. And some Gypsies arrived in Europe, but in keeping with Christian tradition, they were dealt with severely.
What is happening in Europe today? Is Paganism making a comeback? Given that people are different and fickle, there are obvious reasons to choose among many Gods and Goddesses. In addition, Christianity has never been morally or theologically sound. In an age where Christianity is being replaced by modern humanism, are Pagans being tolerated? Is it safe for them to come out of the broom closet?
Well, yes, Pagans are finally being tolerated. As the book says, the two biggest reasons for Europeans wanting to become Pagans today are to adopt a less chauvinistic religion than Christianity and to adopt a religion that takes a pro-ecology stand. I think these are fine reasons as well.
Jones and Pennick mention that Iceland, which shamefully converted to Christianity in 1000 AD, officially recognized Asatru (worship of the Aesir) as a religion in 1973. But the book does not say why this happened. The reason is that Iceland, as has been traditional in Scandinavia, has a Church tax. There is a State Church. But such a tax is inherently unfair to anyone who might not want to be a Lutheran. And so Norse Paganism was given some rights as an official minority religion. The issue was really about taxes, not about religion.
Overall, this is a readable and reasonable work. I recommend it.
A skippy survey.......2004-03-14
This is an interesting survey describing the various pagan religions; the process of their merger/supplantation by Christianity, their perseverance as "folk religion" and even their modern re-emergence. Nothing really heavy, but nice scholarship buttressed by a nice bibliography. On the bad side, it seemed a bit too much of a sell job for "goddess" worship and the section of Hungarian aboriginal religion was weak and, I believe, mildly inaccurate. Since Hungarians believe they spring from the Sumerians, there may have been more interesting connections. Nevertheless, the authors do a lot in a compact space.
Amazon.com
Popular demand for this clear-sighted compendium of information about the rebirth of Pagan religions hasn't waned since its initial publication in 1979. Distinguished by the journalism of National Public Radio columnist Margot Adler, Drawing Down the Moon explains this diverse and burgeoning religion's philosophies and activities while dispelling stereotypes that have long been associated with it. Most people don't realize that pagan simply refers to pre-Christian polytheistic nature religions, such as the various Native American creeds, Japanese Shinto, Celtic Druid, and Western European Wicca. Originally, the word pagan meant "country dweller" and was a derogatory term in Rome in the third century A.D., not unlike calling someone a hick today. If you find yourself feeling queasy when you hear the words witch or pagan, a healthy dose of reeducation via Drawing Down the Moon could be the cure. --P. Randall Cohan
Book Description
Now fully revised—the classic study of Neo-Paganism
Almost thirty years since its original publication, Drawing Down the Moon continues to be the only detailed history of the burgeoning but still widely misunderstood Neo-Pagan subculture. Margot Adler attended ritual gatherings and interviewed a diverse, colorful gallery of people across the United States, people who find inspiration in ancient deities, nature, myth, even science fiction. In this new edition featuring an updated resource guide of newsletters, journals, books, groups, and festivals, Margot Adler takes a fascinating and honest look at the religious experiences, beliefs, and lifestyles of modern America's Pagan groups.
Customer Reviews:
Still the best.......2007-08-13
Margot Adler's Drawing Down the Moon is still the best coverage of the contemporary Western pagan community in America. With substantial revisions and additions, Adler has surveyed the changes that have occurred since the original publication and its subsequent revision. Always written in a clear, lucid and easily digestible style, this work remains a pleasure to read.
A Must read..........2007-07-13
I felt a sense of accomplishment when I finished this book. Yes, some of the material was dated or rather dry, but it is so full of important information that it's one book that every Wiccan should read. These book really explains the diffrent traditions and sects, and gives an honest look at our history. I loved the updated section at the end that listed pagan publications and organizations. This isn't a book for the total newbie, but it can definilty be appreciated from the novice to the high priestess.
A must-read for anyone new to Paganism!.......2007-05-23
Adler has updated this book throughout the years to keep up with developments in the American Pagan community. Her latest update was in 2006, so be sure to read the most current as much has changed since it was first published.
Drawing Down the Moon is objective and informative. Adler gives us "the big picture" in this book. She does a great job explaining the differences between the traditions and introduces us to the most influential people involved in this movement. I recommend anyone considering a Pagan path read this book...and the sooner the better since doing so will help one decide which direction to go in.
An Important Examination of a Worldview.......2007-02-12
First let me explain something that might be, or maybe not be, depending on various factors I guess, a surprise. I am a Christian who has had a background in paganism. I was a practitioner of paganism (solitary paganism) for several years before coming to Christ. I come to this book and I recommend this book not because I agree with the theology that is expressed by the Pagan/Wiccan/etc movement, but because I believe that being informed is better than being ignorant. Let me explain. When trying to tell people of my background, I usually find that people tend to jump into Hollywood/Stephen Kingesque views toward witchcraft/paganism/etc. They think of the woman with a wart on her nose living off in the woods. That, or they think of some chap wearing a hockey mask running around chasing teens. When actually Wiccans and Pagans et cetera are lawyers, nurses, teachers, police officers, soldiers, to name a few. These are people with families, with jobs, who pay taxes, who deal with mortgage payments, who have good days and who inevitably have bad days. Thus the reason why I like this book so much, it offers a realistic (at least in my humble opinion) view of who pagans/etc are and what the pagan movement is about. It isn't the best book, simply because when dealing with such an eclectic movement as paganism is, one source is not always "the" source. Still, this book helps people to understand what background I have and, as I express my coming to Christ, what I may agree (still) and what I may disagree with the pagan movement of my background adult years (from around 89-2002 give or take ). Of course I disagree with the main (generalized, again because there's so many various views and expressions of pagan faith) theological output of paganism, nor am I one of those chaps who says "it's all the same," still I have respect for those though I differ in belief with them. For me, when I explain my life, I believe in having a clear and presenting a clear and in-depth understanding of worldviews, in this case paganism. If you wish to have a generalized introduction to the movements within paganism (from Solitary Wicca to Feminist Goddess Worship Paganism) this is the book. Adler has an intrinsic explanation of the movements, of the reasons behind said movements, of what is done, of what ISN'T done (by pagans). Her views are her own views, of course, we all have views, but still Adler goes deep into explaining and examining. Thus when an open-minded Christian who wishes to know the realistic worldview that I had before becoming to Christ, this is the book I strive to point to.
Not a light read but informative.......2007-01-19
It's considered part of the standard literature in the study of Wicca.
Amazon.com
Quo Vadis for our times! Well, not exactly. It's been awhile since anyone tackled the Roman Empire as entertainingly as Gillespie has done in this book, a nearly-straight historical novel which should please readers of fantasy, too. Germanic Auriane is a combination of the noble, natural savage, and the heroine marked from birth for great deeds. Roman Marcus Julianus is the personification of the highest civilized, republican Roman values. Both are typical and atypical of their societies, fighting for what each believes to be just. Their individual struggles with the clashing Roman and Teutonic cultures are carried out in the Northern forests and in the salons and arena of Rome. Strongly- drawn characters, a setting both familiar and exotic (we all know something of imperial Rome, but very few of us are well-informed about it), a whiff of New-Age ancient mysticism, and a subdued but important romance subplot drive the sweeping novel of Auriane's growth and maturity and Rome's decadence.
Book Description
On the day of her birth, Auriane received a mysterious amulet from a priestess-and a doubleedged prophecy of doom and glory. The daughter of a Germanic tribal chieftain, Auriane witnessed unspeakable horrors committed against her people by ruthless invaders. And when tragedy tore her family apart, she took the oath of a warrior, and vowed revenge. Tales of her brilliant swath of conquest carried as far as Rome, to the renowned statesman Marcus Julianus-who felt his destiny intertwined with Auriane's, and wore about his neck an identical amulet
Customer Reviews:
A Fascinating Book.......2007-10-04
This is a big book by any standards, 800 pages and is the result of years of research and study by the author into the culture, and history of Rome and the Germanic tribes. I found it fascinating, exciting and thought provoking. In fact everything that a good book should be.
The year is AD 83 and the Emperor Domitian has crossed the Rhine with four legions, approximately 24,000 men and they have not marched that far for the exercise. The German tribes have tried to maintain their independence for as long as they can, but against such might their resistance is futile. Thus begins this mammoth book that takes us from the heartlands of the Rhine back to the decadence and temptations of ancient Rome.
A young woman Auriane, daughter of a chieftain who was to become the most revered prophetess of the tribes is captured and taken to Rome as a slave. There her life is changed completely and everything that she stands for is brushed away like so much rubbish. But having known her destiny from being a child Auriane is not about to bow to the yoke of Rome without a fight . . .
A sumptuous tale with few stops for breath.......2007-09-12
There is much I could say about "The Light Bearer" which has already been said, but as I don't review all the books in McCullough's Masters of Rome series (of which I've ready each book), I don't feel I can properly do justice to the greatness of this sweeping epic, which unlike McCullough's work, spans not just from Rome, but from a not well known Germanic tribe called the Chattians.
Gillespie does an amazing job of keeping Rome and Germania separate in writing details, with an inevitable connection between the two. Much is equally known about both the Chattians and the Romans as if written by two authors with the same writing style.
Some high points I point out are the very subtle rise of Domitianus's deranged paranoia and Caligulan/Neronian style reign, though the foreshadowing was a bit too obvious for my tastes.
Other interesting bits are the use and apparent source of commonly known modern things among the Chattians, such as the Goddess of the underworld, Hel, and the Eastre celebration, involving children dressed as rabbits and the hiding of colored eggs.
Because the flaws are so few and insignificant in the face of the greater elements, I think it's easier to point them out:
The writing is very sumptuous, but often at times it can get too dense and bogged down in details. This occurs mostly the first time Auriane enters the Colisseum.
Also, the sex. I've become used to ancient historical novels writing sex scenes very metaphorically and obtusely, without using direct wording. Gillespie appears to take it to such an extreme, with the vividly flowery writing between Marcus and Auriane's lovemaking that it becomes like a dense poem jackknifing from the wonders of nature and life and the gods in an obtuse manner, you nearly forget that the two characters are having sex. So over the top is the writing, that the way Gillespie describes it, you'd think Auriane was having blinding orgasms at just Marcus's touch on her arm or chest.
With the state of Rome at this point, and the main character being a foreigner and enemy to Rome, it's inevitable that a bias against Rome would be drawn, but the male character of Marcus Arrius Julianus is so much the outcast that there is little distinction between how Auriane and Marcus view the Roman world despite their differences. Auriane views Rome as savage and barbaric, and a plague on Fria's realm, whereas Marcus views it in somewhat the same fashion, but figures it's all he has, so he may as well love it.
Aside from Julianus and some of the senators friendly to him, you'd think Rome was a festering pot of corruption, barbarity, and bloodlust the epitome of the Roman view of the barbarians, while the Chattians are viewed as pure, natural, children of the earth that can do no wrong and are victimized by everyone from Rome to their neighboring tribes. Any opposition to Baldemar, Auriane's father and chieftain of the Chattians, is viewed as petty greed and personal problems on the part of the dissenter.
Some forgiveable offenses include loose ends, which may be tied up in the sequel "Lady of the Light", or the as of yet unnamed second sequel, including both Marcus and Auriane having amulets of earth from their childhood, duplicates of one another, and Auriane's seeming mystical foresight.
All these flaws are minimal, in my view, and not much to drag the otherwise epic tale down a full star in rating.
There is one issue with both Auriane and Marcus Julianus which may detract some readers, though is apparently done in such a way that broad interpretation can explain it away as easily as it couldn't: Gillespie may be guilty of "Mary-Sue"ing with Auriane and Marcus Julianus. Both seem to be greater than their surroundings, meant for greater things not yet known to either, and with little to no flaws beyond what their separate societies have naturally imbued in them (stubborn traditionalism in Auriane, cynic realism in Marcus), and beautiful physiques. From a certain point of view, many of their actions or words appear to be Mary Sue-ish reflections of the author's own point of view (determined by the narrative) or of a sense of moral or social well-being beyond that of someone from ancient times.
Or this could simply be the tired ramblings of a fussy reader.
Either way, the over 1000 page epic was a great read, and a highly insightful view into how the Germanic tribes of the early Roman Empire, and the early Roman Empire itself may have been.
I loved it! Suspenseful, passionate, breathtaking imagery.......2007-05-18
The Lightbearer is truly an amazing read. Once I began it, I couldn't pull myself away from the spell of Auriane, woman warrior, fighting for the survival of her embattled Germanic tribe against the all powerful Roman army. The characters are so richly drawn, I had an immediate sense of our shared humanity, despite the remoteness of their times. I was captivated by the vivid descriptions of these two worlds, sometimes hauntingly beautiful, sometimes disturbingly barbarous, always artfully rendered through Gillespie's exquisite prose. This is definitely a page turner filled with passion, struggle, heroism, and intriguing myth. With this carefully crafted tale Gillespie enters the arena of master storyteller.
A Book to Savor.......2007-05-18
Every possible element of good writing comes alive in this book. Gillespie recreates a lost time with such powerful detail we can feel we're living there with her characters. Those characters are larger than life, just as they should be in an historical novel of epic scope. Who would want to read about Robin Hood if he couldn't shoot an arrow straight?
But best of all is the plot. I don't *think* I read books for plot, but without a plot, no book really succeeds. It's like the skeleton of a human. You don't want to look at someone's hipbones directly, but without them, there are no graceful dancers. Gillespie's plot is as intricate as a 3,000 piece jigsaw puzzle and that's what drew me in and got me so involved with the characters that I was disappointed to see the book end -- and it's not a short book, either.
A Really Bad Soap Opera.......2007-05-17
As a student of ancient art, archaeology, and history, this book was on my "to read" list for a long time. Sadly, I was unable to get past the first 100 pages and I tried, I really did. I have never NOT finished a book. This book is awful and tries to hard, screaming "amateur." I guess I should have judged this one by the cover...
The storyline is rambling and full of tacky feminism/mysticism. The diologue is overdone with an absurd amount of metaphors and similies (bordering on laughable). The characters have no depth, despite insight into their thoughts at every possible moment. Everyone is so dramatic and over-the-top. I felt no emotional attachement and didn't care what happened to any of them. I also took issue with the over-simplified and stereotyped "good, harmonious tribes of the north" v.s the "evil, war-mongering Romans."
However, it must be said that Gillespie did a lot of research to present historic facts in order to re-create the time period. It's just too bad the novel reads like a really bad soap opera script.
Book Description
Peter Kreeft believes that Blaise Pascal is the first post-medieval apologist. No writer in history, claims Kreeft, is a more effective Christian apologist and evangelist to today's uprooted, confused, secularized pagans (inside and outside the Church) than Pascal. He was a brilliant man--a great scientist who did major work in physics and mathematics, as well as an inventor--whom Kreeft thinks was three centuries ahead of his time. His apologetics found in his Pensées are ideal for the modern, sophisticated skeptic.
Kreeft has selected the parts of Pascal's Pensées which best respond to the needs of modern man, and offers his own comments on applying Pascal's wisdom to today's problems. Addressed to modern skeptics and unbelievers, as well as to modern Christians for apologetics and self-examination, Pascal and Kreeft combine to provide a powerful witness to Christian truth.
Customer Reviews:
Good........2007-07-27
I am giving only four stars not five because I needed it for a class, and it came later than I expected. Other than that, the book arrived in the condition that I expected. I highly recommend the book for those who want to learn to defend their faith against modern critics and skeptics of Christianity. I also highly recommend the reading for sketpics and critics. Read once quick, then re-read in a critical manner.
Christianity for MOdern Pagans.......2007-07-13
The book was upside down. If the class had not already started I would have returned it. It is usable but one does not expect to pay for a book that is incorrectly bound without prior approval. I am dissatisfied with this order.
Among the Best of Apologists.......2007-05-07
It is always a relief to read a very good book of apologists because there are so many ordinary ones. Pascal reads as fresh as when he originally wrote the pensees, and Kreefts adds immeasurably to the understanding and appreciation of Pascal's words. In terms of the quality of this work, I have got as much out of it as C S Lewis or Philip Yancey albiet Pascal is more sophisticated in many ways.
A pleasure to read.......2006-04-10
Mr. Kreeft does it again in this book about Pascal's 'Pensses'. He picks up Pascal's best or most important 'pensees' and gives us his view of them. He does not intend to explain or interpret them, since they are to be interpreted individually by each of us, but he expands them, he adds to them what a modern reader -living in a neo-pagan world- would have come to his mind.
Mr. Kreeft is a masterful teacher. For those who are afraid of delving into the original authors like Pascal, Thomas Aquinas, etc. we have Mr. Kreeft to introduce us to them.
And for the Christian person this book is almost mandatory, it is the fresh air that we need to keep fighting in this ever more pagan world.
Let's not get carried away with Kreeft.......2006-01-11
I have used this book in my college classes for several years. The reason why is that Kreeft knows how to get the students going. He is, and sounds like, a crotchety old Catholic. He is very opinionated - which is good (and bad). If you like that, then you will love his book on apologetics. But this does get him in trouble several times when he states somewhat imperiously that "Pascal REALLY means this..." (or that). He does this contra Pascal himself who is obviously being subtle. But a good teacher lets the students decide, and often they decide against Kreeft. The other major problem with Kreeft is that in spite of his (imperious?) pronouncement in the beginning of the book that he only included the truly worthy Pensees he nevertheless managed to leave out some of my big favorites. In spite of these somewhat minor criticisms this book is still a classic commentary and can be a terrific way to get in on Pascal.
Average customer rating:
- Modern Pagans
- I like this..
- Fascinating "slice of Pagan life"
- Modern Pagans: For Pagans and Non-Pagans
- Pagan or not-check it out!
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Modern Pagans: an Investigation of Contemporary Ritual (Re/Search)
V. Vale , and
John Sulak
Manufacturer: Re/Search Publications
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ASIN: 1889307106 |
Book Description
This is the most uncensored, comprehensive guide to Pagans around the world today. Dozens of interviews cover a wide range of Pagan practices, from witchcraft, Northern tradition, santeria, shamanism, Druids, Goddess worshippers and more. The book covers important topics such as child raising, living arrangements, sexuality (lots of that), music, and bereavement (death), as well as the more spiritual side of Paganism. The political engagement here is widespread, embracing anti-capitalist and anti-globalist activism, environmental action, and the like. The emphasis is on taking personal responsibility for one's life—essentially, anarchism boiled down to its roots. Many empowering and uplifting stories about non-ordinary people: Starhawk, Genesis P-Orridge, Diane di Prima, and others are featured, as well as comprehensive bibliographies and filmographies that allow the reader to delve deeper into the subject.
Customer Reviews:
Modern Pagans.......2007-07-23
"Modern Pagans" is an insightful look at the Neo-Pagan subculture, a diverse group of lifestyles, aesthetics, and spiritual practices. According to the introduction Paganism is the perfect spirituality for "feminists, environmentalist, futurists, artists, surrealists-all who dream for social change, live for creativity not the profit motive, and hate dogma and authoritarianism. In Paganism, humor is sacred; diversity welcomed; hierarchy depreciated; activism encouraged; the body is honored, and Mother Earth and every entity revered."
"Modern Pagans" consists of intimate interviews of 50 Neo-Pagan leaders including Starhawk, Margot Adler, Isaac Bonewits, Thorn Coyle, Oberon Zell Ravenheart, and Patricia Monaghan. These leaders discuss such varied topics as history, myth, theology, sexuality, politics, and ritual from a Neo-Pagan perspective. Interviewees featured span such diverse traditions as Witchcraft, Druidism, Santeria, Asatru, Radical Faerie, Church of All Worlds, Shamanism, Techno-Paganism, Feri, Gardnerianism, and Reclaiming.
Perhaps the best part about "Modern Pagans" is that the reader can survey a number of Neo-Pagan traditions directly from practioners. The reader is able to glimpse into numerous Neo-Pagan paradigms and get a deep understanding of how and why Paganism is practiced today. V. Vale has selected exceptional scholars that are both knowledgeable and warm to convey an accurate depiction of 21st century Pagan practices. It is the perfect book for anyone interested in contemporary Paganism and is essential for anyone starting out on the Pagan path. Highly recommended!
Rating: 5 out of 5 magick wands!
*courtesy of [...]*
I like this.........2005-10-16
This is good..Genesis P. Orridge as you've never seen him with rare photots..Intimate photos of most of the subjects of this book are included.."Bobcat" is included, the best Druid ever..Anna and Drew Korn, Margot Adler the legend, Starhawk and Madrone are in here, an extensive bibliography of all the authors works after their interviews (and the recording artists, etc.) is in here, like an Indigo Girls recording, fine..Genesis P_Orridge is so interesting..I learned so much about the Druids from this..Starhawk really shows who she is, and we get to see many cute pictures of the young and beautiful Margot Adler..Who's so articulate..Issac Bonewitts is in here, talking about himself as you don't get to hear him do so much..Cool hippie photos of him. A funeral preparer is interviewed, a lot of environmental rights activists, Z'ell Oberon and Morningstar are interviewed, as well as photos and interviews with their polyamorous family, and body artists are interviewed, and cool are the photos of them! Love, Vanes
Fascinating "slice of Pagan life".......2003-04-06
I'd seen this book on the shelves of a local book store for quite some time before finally buying it. It came out around the same time I began exploring Paganism as a spiritual path. Since I already casually knew a couple of people the book interviews (Carol Queen & Joi Wolfwomyn) before reading this book, it was interesting for me to read what they had to say about this spiritual path. I also found out about Madrone's workshops as a result of this book. As I read more of the interviews, I found myself agreeing with some but not necessarily everything I read. Which is fine, not everything I read I will agree with, just as not everything I say others will agree with. And while this book is an excellent cross-section of those following this path, not every path is represented. Still it does provide some good viewpoints and food for thought.
The book also features a lot of other books and web sites to read for those looking for further information. There are also other side bars featuring items like a feature about the "history of Gardnerian wicca," a sample ritual, and numerous pictures. To someone either considering exploring or following this path, this book provides a glimpse into what some but not all Pagans do in their day to day lives and what this path means to them personally.
Modern Pagans: For Pagans and Non-Pagans.......2003-01-13
Modern Pagans is an excellent collection of interviews with a diverse group of pagans. It is a great book for both pagans interested in learning more about their own spiritual group and non-pagans interested in paganism. It includes a nice mix of history and background and current information. The people interviewed are very articulate and knowledgable. I was also very impressed by the diversity of the interviewees; not only are "normal" pagans represented, but there are also interviews with former Catholic priests and military pagans. Especially impressive are the interviews with Starhawk and Margot Adler. I definitely recommend this book for anyone, of any experience level, interested in learning more about the current state of paganism.
Pagan or not-check it out!.......2002-01-29
I'm what you'd call a "potential Pagan." I have an awareness of and respect for Paganism, but no formal education. So I was very curious when I picked up a copy of the new RE/Search book, Modern Pagans, wondering if it would be either an watered down "Witchcraft 101," or, conversely, an inaccessible, heavy-handed tome on archaic theories and rituals. I was pleasantly surprised to find it to be neither.
In this book, Paganism is defined as any polytheistic religion, so beliefs not usually considered Pagan exist comfortably here. The authors have managed to present an intelligent, comprehensive overview of numerous theologies laced with poignant commentaries and anecdotes from almost 50 practicing Pagans. The stories and paths each of these people tell and follow are as varied and unique as the ways they've managed to incorporate their beliefs into everyday life. Topics range from pagan parenting to polyamory (maintaining loving sexual relationships with more than one primary partner). With their frank discussions of sex parties, the Great Rite, and sacred prostitution some of these pagans may cause raised eyebrows in the more sheltered reader. Counterbalancing these, however, are, among other interviews, the introspective thoughts of Matthew Fox, former Catholic priest, excommunicated by Rome for his "feminist theology" and for associating too closely with Pagans.
My favorite interview was with Joi Wolfwomyn, a Pagan and mother. Drawing on the isolation and "otherness" she felt as a bi-racial adopted child in a conservative Christian family, and the time spent in a mental institution as an adolescent, she tells how transcended her painful past.
With an extensive glossary and recommended reading/resource list in the back (in addition to the ones scattered throughout the book), Modern Pagans is a priceless addition to any well-read theologian's collection, and a fascinating, approachable introduction to Paganism for the novice. Every page provided new information, every interview a fresh perspective.
Book Description
Earth, Air, Fire, and Water - not only are these elements the building blocks of the universe, but also potent keys to heightened self-understanding. The Way of Four helps you determine which of the four elements are prominent and which are lacking in your world using a variety of custom-made quizzes. It includes a multitude of methods to incorporate and balance the elements in your environment, wardrobe, and even your perfume. This is a fun and valuable sourcebook for anyone seeking balance and beauty in a hectic world.
Customer Reviews:
Perfect once again !.......2006-12-05
Deborah Lipp once again writes a book we can all learn from. From a newbie to a elder of the craft. I highly recommend this book.
A Must for the Serious Student or Teacher.......2006-10-26
Useful and enlightening even if you only read it, and more valuable still when used as a guide for study and reflection. I highly recommend it for students and teachers of religious forms of witchcraft, as an aid to magical study and to self-knowledge and improvement.
Recommended for Non-pagans as well........2006-04-13
At first I was reluctant to get this book because of the quizzes, but they are really the best part of the book. They are quite accurate and they piqued my Non-pagan friends' interest in the book! I am happy that Llewellyn is publishing books from authors like Ms. Lipp.
Understanding the Elements for Themselves and Within.......2006-03-27
After reading this book I feel that I have a much firmer grasp on the concepts related to each element and their balance with each other. I thoroughly enjoyed the quizzes throughout to better understand how the elements are coming through me and my lifestyle. I found that to be most enlightening. The book was very well written, and has wonderful exercises for bringing any of the elements into your life more, as well as attuning with any of the elements.
Interesting but..........2006-03-05
I don't like the generalisations of take this quiz (I don't like quizzes in Mags), the results mean you are Air&Water ect... While I try to live with Elemental intergrity to some extent I can not have a book of spirituality that doesn;t contain any links to God and Goddess or deeply exploring the Why of you do what you do, the infomation is good and correct, and I guess I learned alot but to me solutions like if you need more air in your life listen to this music is not what I look for. I thimk it is good sourse of infomation if you find it hard to understand the elements. For beginners or those redecorating, also it didn't discuss issues about the Elements locations ect... which is very important to us living in the Southern Hemisphere, and although I wouldn't expect to find that in a general book I would in an Elemental Book.
Book Description
In this pathbreaking volume, Ross Shepard Kraemer provides the first comprehensive look at women's religions in Greco-Roman antiquity. She vividly recreates the religious lives of early Christian, Jewish, and pagan women, with many fascinating examples: Greek women's devotion to goddesses, rites of Roman matrons, Jewish women in rabbinic and diaspora communities, Christian women's struggles to exercise authority and autonomy, and women's roles as leaders in the full spectrum of Greco-Roman religions. In every case, Kraemer reveals the connections between the social constraints under which women lived, and their religious beliefs and practices. The relationship among female autonomy, sexuality, and religion emerges as a persistent theme. Analyzing the monastic Jewish Therapeutae and various Christian communities, Kraemer demonstrates the paradoxical liberation which women achieved by rejection of sexuality, the body, and the female. In the epilogue, Kraemer pursues the disturbing implications such findings have for contemporary women. Based on an astonishing variety of primary sources, Her Share of the Blessings is an insightful work that goes beyond the limitations of previous scholarship to provide a more accurate portrait of women in the Greco-Roman world.
Amazon.com
Tapping into Celtic, Roman, Egyptian, and other cultural traditions, Nigel Pennick explores the individual significance of almost every day of the year. Pennick reveals some of the mechanics, such as moon phases and equinoxes, underlying many important holidays, and he breaks the year into seasons, months, and even hours, offering a peek into the importance of even the smaller divisions of the year. --Brian Patterson
Book Description
• A daybook containing information about rituals and celebrations that have for centuries been associated with the changing seasons of the year.
• Includes charts of equinoxes and solstices, moveable holy days, and monthly lunar phases updated through the year 2010
• First edition sold more than 30,000 copies
Pagan rites and festivals are at the root of many traditional holidays in the Western world. Embracing a sensitivity we have lost, the Pagan traditions emphasize mystical spirituality, reverence for the feminine principle, and the links between people and the earth. This unique daybook contains a treasury of information about rituals and celebrations that have for centuries been associated with the changing seasons of the year. Included are the observances of the ancient Greek, Roman, Celtic, Anglo-Saxon, and Norse traditions, as well as Wiccan traditions and the worship of the Goddess.
In The Pagan Book of Days the author provides details on auspicious and inauspicious days, holy days of ancient gods and goddesses, and the eight stations of the year (the solstices, equinoxes, and cross-quarter days). He also includes lunar and solar charts indicating dates of major Pagan celebrations from the year 2000 through the first decade of the millennium. Illustrations throughout depict images from the classical and northern European traditions. The Pagan Book of Days is an enlightening way to incorporate these ancient cultural and spiritual practices and awarenesses into your daily life.
Customer Reviews:
Non Fiction.......2007-09-03
This is not as new-agey as it sounds, really. It is more of a straight up calendar type book. It goes through and does mention a whole lot of festivals and rituals and associations for the various days of the yearl.
You will get a lot of surprises about what was worshipped when, or was worthy of a festival or celebration.
A must have for all practitioners........2007-01-01
The comprehensive listing of Pagan events for the year is a must have for all practitioner libraries. All paths covered in effecient detail. I highly recommend it for everyone.
Wonderful Monthly Information .......2006-03-08
This book is chuck full of information for each month and encompasses many different Pagan cultures. A wonderful resource for the curious, newsletters, calendars, event planning and for teaching/lectures. I highly recommend this book for personal and group libraries.
A little disappointing.......2005-08-16
On the down side there are quite a few missing entries for days. On the upside there is some very interesting information on the tides of the day and other calendars. I would give this 3 1/2 stars.
A great mix for the beginner.......2004-07-04
Speaking as a beginner to wicca myself, i often get mixed up with moon days and calender days because often these things are in different books. happily, the pagan book of days solves a big chunk of that problem. it's all here -- everything a beginner and possibly a full time wiccian would need to keep track of the different festivals and sacred days that happen throughout the year. i could only wish the descriptions of each days were a little longer, but as some beginners (like me) have a short attention span and just want the facts, then thats pretty much for the best I'd say.
I'd also love to give a personal kudo's to the author, Nigel, for giving a short but sweet explanation on the moon phases, as well as the tides of day. all and all, a great resource for the novice who wants it all in one place and doesn't want to delve too deeply but wants a good overview of them all. (p.s: it's fluff free. enjoy)
Book Description
Pagan Homeschooling is the first book to address the needs of pagan and other metaphysical families that are actively homeschooling, considering this option, or simply desiring to integrate a greater degree of spirituality into their children's educations.
This is a hands-on manual, packed with resources, checklists, questionnaires, exercises, spells, arts and crafts, experiments, rituals, and much more.
* decide if home education is right for your family
* discover your child's unique learning styles
* hear how and why other pagan home educators are teaching their children at home
* find out how working parents are creating ways to successfully homeschool
* learn to supplement a child's public or private school education and incorporate spirituality in holistic ways
* develop the ability to be a great networker
* learn with the elements and festivals
* explore your psychic and magickal abilities
Customer Reviews:
Good book.......2007-08-14
I really liked this one. A nice easy book on introing Paganism into your homeschooling life. Good ideas. I really like the chapter on Teaching the elements and also the chapter on teaching with festivals.
Heather mama of 5
Wonderful!.......2007-07-18
I absolutely love this book and I'm kicking myself for waiting this long to get it! LOL It is chock full of resources that will take my weeks, if not months to look at. While a few of them I have seen before, by and far the majority I'd never even heard of and I can't wait to check them out. I also like the excercises and rituals she sprinkles throughout the book. An awesome must have book for any Pagan family, especially if you wish to incorporate your spirituality into your curriculum. Ionly wish there were illustrations, LOL One other book I reccomend is A Witch's Primer
The Woman Is Full Of It..........2006-05-22
ideas that is. :) I read this book before I even had the wonderful pleasure of meeting and getting to know Kristin. I loved that it was filled with ideas not only for the pagan homeschooler but also for anyone who wanted to teach their children from a more natural/nature based approach.
This book became even more wonderful to me after getting to know Kristin because it's like it came alive for me and my family. Seeing Kristin and Karl and watching how they just live their lives is a wonderful example of how well her thoughts and ideas work.
I consider this woman, her son, and her teachings a wonderful blessing and addition to mine and my childrens' lives. Her books are well worth the read.
Talk about a niche product!.......2006-03-26
To quote Mr Dobbs from below: "Looking back at my experience in public school, I can remember very few things that I learned."
Well, Mr Dobbs, that is a perfect example of why some of us choose to homeschool. Some of us actually want our kids to learn something! Thank you for clarifying that point for us. LOL
As for this book - talk about a niche product! I haven't seen another book like this one. The world of homeschooling is saturated with conservative Christian literature - not that there's anything wrong with that! But finally there is a homeschooling book for people with different belief systems.
Excellent Ideas!.......2005-09-19
This book is truly a great jumping off point for any Pagan parent who is trying to figure out ways to add, or teach Paganism to their children. Ms. Madden has given the homeschooling community a real gem that has been helpful to my family and countless others that I know.
As for Mr. Dobb's remarks concerning this book, he has every right in the world not to like it. However my issue with his remarks lie in the repeated phase "Pagan Movement".
I am sorry, but I have never thought, nor heard of Paganism as being a "movement" and I think stating such for those that are not Pagan, but wonder what it's all about, is very misleading.
It is NOT a movement, but a belief system. I don't hear Xtians refer to Christianity as a "Movement". I think your words lower the validity of Paganism, especially since it (or its basis) predates Christianity.
There are several homeschooling groups in our area that are secular in nature, and welcome those from any religious background, so that all children, including my own, are exposed to others. You might want to look into that yourself Mr. Dobbs.
With that said, Pagan Homeschooling is a wonderful source that can be used by anyone. It is easily versatile, and allows readers to pull from it what they choose without wasting any contents. Books such as this are few and far between, and I am very thankful it! Ms. Madden has taken the time to write about something so important for the Pagan home educator.
Thank you Kristen, where ever you are!
Customer Reviews:
An Amazing work of Investigation !.......2003-10-07
The missing chapter of The Bible is found. The unique way of going to the Kingdom Come is decoded 2000 years after.
The hidden truth of the Entheogen world among our Myths is revelated.
An Extraordinary complement of information for people who is searching the other Realm... far behyond our physical world.
The role of entheogens in the origins of Christian rites.......2001-05-07
As we cross the threshold into the twenty-first century, we always hope that every new theory be considered on its own merits and not met by a wall of prejudices constructed from previous comparisons. This is the spirit we will need to show when reading this work of investigation whose contents must leave the reader anything but indifferent. With The Apples of Apollo: Pagan and Christian Mysteries of the Eucharist, Carl A.P. Ruck, Blaise Daniel Staples and Clark Heinrich have investigated the great myth of human civilization; using the tools of comparative analysis, much as a team of archaeologists would excavate the remains of a buried site, they have exposed a hidden truth, mending step by step, argument by argument the scaffolding of what is probably one of the most ancient archetypes of humanity: the knowledge, use and worship of the sacred mushroom: Amanita muscaria, searching its presence in the genesis and development of diverse myths, both Greek and Judeochristian, and establishing a chain of relationships between them.
Whoever approaches these pages must accept the challenge of drinking new wine from an old wineskin, and then he will not only discover a novel viewpoint on archaic themes, but also a whole new method of interpretation, fruitful in its essence and fruitful in its form. It may be that the reader will not be able to divest himself of the inevitable prejudices in which we have all been indoctrinated and will succumb to the temptation to reject the proposals and evidence presented here before even examining it, but this would be an inexcusable error: the authors have worked in accordance with the strictest standards of scholarship and offer in support of their re-examination of their subject an impressive array of data from every source available and innumerable textual citations from the primary material. This documentation, presented as footnotes on the page in conjunction with their case, allows the reader to refer to the original expression of particular points while simultaneously considering the new interpretations being given. Thus, the reader himself is given the capability of judging as he progresses through the argument the true meaning of the materia prima, according to his own particular world view.
The Apples of Apollo also confirms that the character of early Christianity as a mystery religion cannot be understood as being merely marginal to the other mystery religions of the ancient world. Without any question of a doubt, the most controversial chapter of The Apples of Apollo is Chapter Five, Jesus, the Drug Man, in essence the pivotal point of the entire work. In this chapter the reader will be confronted with a Christ linked to the use of entheogens, a Christ who is the dispenser of "enlightenment" through the mushroom; this may sound amazing, but the institution of the eucharist now consists literally in the ingestion of a substance that alters consciousness, albeit a weak one -- wine. But more disturbing than the inefficacy of the wine as a key to divine revelation, is that the Church finds the idea of eating God preferible to eating the plant of God, which is, by definition, also that very same God, like the bush which burned in the Sinai with an incombustible fire before Moses. The secret of those flames is but one of many revealed within these pages.
So let's escape from prejudice. Let's abandon the fear of reconsidering our dogmas from a new perspective. Let us feel once again the fascination of the unknown, recover the distinctly human aspiration for the quest, even at the risk of the pain it might cause us. Let us dare . . . Let's open the pages of The Apples of Apollo, journey through them, discover their proposals and who knows: it could be that, after all, the truth lies therein.
José Alfredo González Celdrán
Good but with a caveat.......2001-02-20
This is another great addition to your entheogen bookshelf, tracing the source for the underground eucharistic fountain that watered so many "mystic" schools.
On the matter of Alchemy, the authors make the statement that no one has ever made transmutation to gold. Perhaps they should review Jacques Sadoul's Alchemists and Gold for good references.
The reason they doubt this is because of their procrustean mindset, just as the Jungians insist on viewing all alchemical writings as being psychological only; these authors fall into the common mistake, imho, of seeing in alchemy a veil for initiatic cults. I have Clark Heinrich's good book, Stange Fruit, and it is very spotty on alchemy. The one excellent illustration he shows from Splendor Solis, of the rebis (hermaphrodite) holding what seems clearly to be Amanita, must be counterpoised against all the other illustrations in the same work, of such classical themes as the Peacock. All of these other pictures show stages of the alchemical process ina glass flask. It is amazing how little he has found considering the thousands of alchemical works,
Take a universally admired alchemical writer such as Eireneus Philalethes. His works have page after page of detailed instructions for a physical laboratory process, and virtually nothing that can be directly construed to relate to entheogens. It is so easy for the entheogen crowd to gloss over the vast majority of alchemical works, which don't support their position at all, unless they contort the books into obscure mystical wanderings. And it makes no sense for the alchemists to heap so much misleading dung on top of a grain of "secret teaching" about entheogens. Why would some authors write book after book, virtually untouching the subject of plant teachers? A mere sentence here or there does not reveal that alchemy is solely about an underground eucharistic stream carried forward.
What is generally missed is that an important shift took place 2500 years ago, with the precession of the Age; the rational mind of the race began to develop, with analytical mind suppressing the subconscious group mind that the race had lived in tribally before. This eventually led to the rise of technology. Prior to this we don't find any typical alchemical writings. The old shamans had no skills with distillation apparatus, since they didn't exist. Their herbal simples were decoctions, compounds, ointments.
The unique thing that happened is that individuals,who were still initiates into the Axis Mundi world view of Nature (whether thru natural talent,or through entheogens), were able to analyse what they saw in their visions, and now apply technology. They realized they were one with Nature, but they also saw its principles and how the essential radiance (polar opposites) could be separated out and developed, by pitting them against each other within the confines of a glass egg. Thus the Philosophers' Stone is the ultimate entheogen perhaps, for man is Nature knowing Itself, and the alchemical work is therefore Nature developing Itself thru Art into a higher manifestation. Only the vision was possible before in the archaic world.
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