Pagans

A clear, concise and detailed historical analysis of the eclectic and beautiful visual and material culture of Paganism. Who are Pagans and what do they believe? Which gods and goddesses do they revere? Do they worship nature? Do they practise divination and magic? From sacred plants imbued with supernatural powers to hand-carved amulets that repel evil, Pagans find divine value in the natural world and spiritual significance in the material universe. Presenting a spectacular collection of art and artefacts from the last 3,000 years, drawn from Hindu, Shinto, Native American, Ancient Norse, Roman, Greek and Celtic religions, Ethan Doyle White explores the rich visual and material culture of paganism. He begins by tracing the ancient origins of paganism and exploring how materials from the pre-Christian religions of Europe, North Africa, and West Asia are built into the practices of today's Pagans. Each of the book's subsequent nine chapters features illustrated text interspersed with double-page presentations of the key figures, stories and iconography relevant to each theme. As the book progresses, readers will not only come to understand the many symbols that define Pagan religions and practices, but will also discover the modern-day beliefs and philosophies of Pagans from around the world, including Wiccans, Druids, neo-Shamans and Heathens.