About This Book
The work surveys ancient Scandinavian supernatural beliefs and practices as recorded in the Eddas and sagas, presenting comparative analysis that distinguishes native magic—focused on tangible helper spirits, family fylgjur, vättar, and the power of words and signs—from continental spirit-centered sorcery. It explores dream omens, protective and hostile beings, and the close exchange with Finnish and Sámi magical techniques, illustrating points with saga-derived episodes and folkloric examples. Organized as a series of vividly described tableaux with explanatory commentary, the text aims to introduce general readers to the psychic life and ritual customs of the region's pre-Christian past.
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