The Golden Bough: A Study of Magic and Religion by James George Frazer

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About this eBook

Author Frazer, James George, 1854-1941
Title The Golden Bough: A Study of Magic and Religion
Note 1922 Abridged edition
Note Reading ease score: 58.2 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
Credits This etext was produced by David Reed
Summary "The Golden Bough: A Study of Magic and Religion" by Sir James George Frazer is an anthropological study written in the late 19th century. The text explores the intricate relationships between magic, religion, and the customs of ancient peoples, particularly focusing on the rituals and beliefs surrounding the priesthood of Diana at Aricia in Italy. Frazer aims to understand how these practices contributed to the structure of ancient societies, thereby revealing broader patterns within human culture and thought. The opening of the work serves to introduce Frazer's central aim: to elucidate the peculiar customs regarding the succession to the priesthood of Diana, known as the King of the Wood. He describes the violent ritual whereby the current priest must be slain by his successor, highlighting the barbaric and almost primal nature of the practice. This exploration is framed within a wider context of magical practices and beliefs, suggesting that such customs are not only historical anomalies but representative of universal themes in human society. Frazer further contextualizes this narrative within legendary accounts, notably those of Orestes and Hippolytus, setting the stage for his examination of the fundamental principles underlying magic and religion. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class BL: Philosophy, Psychology, Religion: Religion: General, Miscellaneous and Atheism
Subject Religion
Subject Magic
Subject Superstition
Subject Mythology
Category Text
EBook-No. 3623
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Jan 8, 2021
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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