The Above World: Reaching for the Sky in Native American Traditions

Painting by Albert Bierstadt, Wikimedia Commons. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Albert_Bierstadt_-_Indian_Canoe.jpg

The Sky World of Native American tradition refers to a parallel celestial universe located in the Sky. It is home to deities such as the Sun, the Moon and Morning Star, but ordinary people can sometimes access it in exceptional and magical circumstances.

Forest Folklore: Wild Gods, World Trees and Werewolves

Trees, by Joe McLaren.

A sneak peek of #FolkloreThursday’s new book, Treasury of Folklore – Woodlands and Forests: Wild Gods, World Trees and Werewolves. Come with us now on a journey into the forests; walk with us as we delve into the tales and traditions enfolded within the woodlands of the world. Pick up your lantern and step into the dark branches as we dig deep into the soil to unearth their mysteries. There are stories to be heard, so listen softly, and you will hear the tales the leaves of ages whisper into the wind …

The Human Heart in the Middle Ages and the Practice of Ablation – or Treatment of the Dead for Valentine’s Day

Sacred Heart, All Saints Catholic Church (St. Peters, Missouri). By Nheyob - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34226009

As Valentine’s Day comes around, spare a passing thought for that ubiquitous red heart that has come to symbolize the event. Historically speaking, there is a lot more than is at the surface for that emblem of love.

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