Modern Paganism in World Cultures: Comparative Perspectives

by Michael F. Strmiska (Editor)

Modern Paganism in World Cultures collects the work of specialists in religion, folklore, and related fields to provide a comprehensive treatment of the movement to reestablish pre-Christian religions. Detailed accounts of the belief systems and rituals of each religion, along with analysis of the cultural, social, and political factors fueling the return to ancestral religious practice, make this a rich, singular resource. Scandinavian Asatru, Latvian Dievturi, American Wicca―long-dormant religions are taking on new life as people seek connection with their heritage and look for more satisfying approaches to the pressures of postmodernism. The Neopagan movement is a small but growing influence in Western culture. This book provides a map to these resurgent religions and an examination of the origins of the Neopagan movement.

Genres: Religion, Paganism, Nonfiction, History

382 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2005

Reviews

[Patricia Woodruff · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the chapter of the Strega religion I think they were much too harsh in judging Raven Grimassi's work on Stregheria. They had never heard of many of the things that he had written about so they were dismissive. However, my research from a completely different angle of studying the Slavic lands confirms much of what Grimassi wrote.

The book covered a good variety of various Pagan beliefs rather than just focusing on Celtic Paganism which I appreciated. It actually includes some on the Baltic beliefs as well as Ukrainian! (Although it is the barest overview, but understandable because what is remembered is very fragmented.) But I'm glad some Slavic beliefs were actually included. However, while the title includes "World Cultures" it really just focuses on American and European cultures. There is nothing on Asian Paganism or African beliefs.