From the Celts to the Vikings

To understand the folklore and myth of the last millennium and beyond, we must examine the old beliefs of the pre-Christian era. This book guides the reader through the history and myths of Germanic and Celtic tribes, exploring how these beliefs have shaped folklore throughout time. This book will consider, with examples, various types of beliefs both within and outside formal religion, especially since folk beliefs held positions of their own alongside official religion but were just as much a part of people’s lives as any official faith. Today, we are often presented with the idea that daily life is separated from the religious sphere. For example, we visit Church on Sundays and then return to our daily routine. By contrast, regarding folklore and religious life in the past, lines were far more porous. People needed to appease various beings and protect themselves from malignant magic. Common credence included beliefs of beings such as the fairies, who came in many sizes and shapes and whose conjured magic could harm and/or help depending on your actions. So, please step inside the world of North European history, mystery and myth to discover something old yet new, which I hope will inform or entertain you.