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Can anyone tell me why Ecthgow and the others were angry at Ibn Fadlan for writing his name in the dirt after he was specifically asked to do so, and then was treated better by Buliwyf after he promised not to anymore?
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Eaters of the Dead,
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Rebecca A.
Names were highly important and magical, and carried one's essence or soul. This was true for many early cultures, especially those who lacked or shunned written means of communication. Ecthgow issued a challenge, and was then frightened that Fadlan might gain some power over him or steal his soul.
Same thing happened when photography was introduced to isolated tribes and peoples.
Same thing happened when photography was introduced to isolated tribes and peoples.
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