"One of the most striking aspects of the process of conversion of paganism into Christianity is the manner in which certain key religious concepts were modified, without being totally obliterated from the new religious language. Residual pagan beliefs persevered, at least for a time, notably that concerning fate. The argument concludes that only after pagan fate was transformed into the concept of god's Providence could the problem of death and salvation in relation to God's power be made fully manifest. Fate had become linked with death as a new beginning within Christian eschatology, and was thus, finally, temporalized."--BOOK JACKET.

The norns were a group of female supernatural beings closely related to ideas about fate in Old Norse tradition. Although the norns are well known, even to people who have only a superficial knowledge of Old Norse mythology, this is the first detailed discussion of them to be published amongst the literature dealing with Old Norse beliefs.

This accessible text guides novice and seasoned opera listeners alike through Richard Wagner's renowned Ring cycle. To aid in understanding this complex and often contradictory work, a modern-day prose translation of its four component operas is provided, as is an explanation of "The Nibelung's Ring's mythological background, Wagner's creative process, and the ideas conveyed throughout each component. A section reviewing its numerous musical themes and how they bind the cycle together musically is also included. Rarely seen lithographs by artist Hugo Braune illustrate the story.

Although many of us first encountered runes in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, this sacred alphabet is by no means a fabrication for books or movies. Similar to Hebrew letters in the sense that each symbol contains a meaning that transcends its original function as a letter, the runes are practical, flexible, and effective symbols with a variety of uses. From the introduction: Effective use of the runes requires both the old wisdom and the new. The student must not only consciously study the meanings ascribed to the runes by earlier scholars, but must internalize them. Today, the best-known application of rune lore is divination: chips or stones marked with the runes are drawn, cast, or laid out in patterns like tarot cards. In Taking Up the Runes, Paxson delves into the ancient historical meaning of each rune and explains their contemporary uses and meanings. We discover that the real power of runes comes from inside ourselves when we find the wisdom and power within each symbol and internalize them. Taking Up the Runes is the ultimate workbook for using the runes on a psychic, spiritual, and magical level. Learn how to make your own rune set and how to use the runes in guided meditations and song.

Lords of the Ash is the second full-sized lore book for the Fate of the Norns: Ragnarok universe. It covers the divine races of gods and giants.

A look at the extensive history of the folkcraft, its presence in the modern world, and resources to help beginners enter the world of textile artistry. This book offers a whistle-stop guide to the history of spinning and weaving. The story begins in prehistory when people first wove yarns to create clothing and blankets. The book explores how spinning and weaving have continued to be important throughout human history (or should that be herstory), in artistic, economic, and functional terms. The second part of the book brings us up to date, via interviews with modern-day spinning and weaving artisans. These textiles artists generously allowed the author a window into their studios and discussed the way they use and adapt traditional methods, techniques, and tools for the twenty-first century. Photos of their work and their working environment offer a unique view into the world of this ancient craft. Finally, if you are inspired to try your hand at this fascinating art, the book also has a resources section. It includes a valuable list of suppliers of fiber, dyes, tools, and yarn, as well as information about training courses, useful websites, and more—everything you need to get started.

The most comprehensive guide to Norse literature, historical folk lore and more. Kvilhaug peels back the layers of the Eddas, Poems and Sagas to reveal hidden truths within Maria's background in research and archaeology is visible throughout with full illustrations, timelines and beautiful translations of passages providing the key to unlocking and deciphering the hidden wisdom within. Her exploration of modern interpretations, past parables, and related cultural mythos provides a deeper layer into the mysteries of Old Norse practices.