Irish Death Culture: "Merry Wake," Otherworldly Spirits, and Body Snatchers
19.99 €
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Irish Death Culture: "Merry Wake," Otherworldly Spirits, and Body Snatchers
19.99 €
Ireland gave the world not only tap dancing, jigs, and the joyous St. Patrick's Day, but also "the most terrifying holiday"—Halloween. The otherworld has long been intertwined with the real world here: the verdant island is dotted with burial grounds, local festivals preserve the legacy of ancient rituals—and, rumor has it, the mournful cry of the banshee can still be heard in some places.
This book by philologist and professional guide Ekaterina Moskovskaya reveals the often-overlooked, dark side of Irish culture. You'll read about astronomical rituals in tombs, banshee combs, and mischievous puka imps, learn how the Irish prepared for death and why their funerals were little different from weddings—and perhaps you'll also be wary of disturbing hawthorn bushes from now on...
How are dolmens different from cairns? What are the archaic origins of Samhain, and why should we respect the "white mare"? Why is the "Cave of Cats" a gateway to hell? Where do the fairies dwell, and can they enter heaven? What good is the water left over from washing the dead? Finally, why "awaken" the dead with song and dance?
This book will immerse you in this fascinating culture—both vibrant and sinister—and you'll understand why the Irish are so cheerful not only "in life" but also "in death."
This book by philologist and professional guide Ekaterina Moskovskaya reveals the often-overlooked, dark side of Irish culture. You'll read about astronomical rituals in tombs, banshee combs, and mischievous puka imps, learn how the Irish prepared for death and why their funerals were little different from weddings—and perhaps you'll also be wary of disturbing hawthorn bushes from now on...
How are dolmens different from cairns? What are the archaic origins of Samhain, and why should we respect the "white mare"? Why is the "Cave of Cats" a gateway to hell? Where do the fairies dwell, and can they enter heaven? What good is the water left over from washing the dead? Finally, why "awaken" the dead with song and dance?
This book will immerse you in this fascinating culture—both vibrant and sinister—and you'll understand why the Irish are so cheerful not only "in life" but also "in death."
See also:
- All books by the publisher
- All books by the author
- All books in the series Culture of Death