Signs, omens and superstitions

A compendium of traditional beliefs and practices that surveys superstitions, omens, and charms across domestic, social, and occupational life. It traces proposed origins in ignorance, fear, and attempts to explain natural phenomena and religious rites, then catalogs customs and signs connected with weddings, rings, lucky and unlucky days, bodily portents, household rites, divination methods, animal and weather omens, plant lore, and professional taboos. Chapters treat charms, mascots, the evil eye, holiday observances, and regional variations, presenting folkloric explanations and usages without endorsing their validity.