
Golden Bough: The Magic Art and the Evolution of Kings, Volume 1
by James Frazer
'Golden Bough: The Magic Art and the Evolution of Kings, Volume 1' Summary
The Golden Bough, a monumental work of anthropology, explores the origins of religious belief and societal structures through the lens of magic, ritual, and the evolution of kingship. Sir James Frazer's meticulous examination of cultural practices across ancient societies reveals fascinating connections between seemingly disparate customs. He explores the belief in sympathetic and contagious magic, the influence of magical practices on the environment, and the transition of leadership from divine or magical figures to human kings. The book's centerpiece is an in-depth analysis of the King of the Wood ritual at the Lake of Nemi, which Frazer sees as a microcosm of larger societal and religious developments. He uses this ritual to examine the interplay of magic, religion, and societal structures, providing a compelling framework for understanding the evolution of human belief systems and the development of civilization itself.Book Details
Language
EnglishOriginal Language
Published In
Genre/Category
Tags/Keywords
Authors

James Frazer
Scotland
Sir James George Frazer was a Scottish social anthropologist and folklorist influential in the early stages of the modern studies of mythology and comparative religion. His most famous work, The Golde...
Books by James FrazerDownload eBooks
Listen/Download Audiobook
Related books

Deuses de Casaca by Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis
In 'Deuses de Casaca,' Machado de Assis cleverly reimagines the Greek deities as modern individuals, dressed in contemporary attire, navigating the co...

Augsburg Confession by Philipp Melanchthon
The Augsburg Confession was the first and most fundamental Confession of the Lutheran Church. It was composed for a public reading at the Diet of Augs...

Oracles of Nostradamus by Charles A. Ward
Charles A. Ward was considered one of the most knowledgeable in his studies of the prophecies of Nostradamus. Ward viewed the prophecies of Nostradamu...

Кобзар ч1 (Kobzar Part 1) by Taras Shevchenko
“Кобзар” is a seminal collection of poems by Taras Shevchenko, a prominent figure in Ukrainian literature. This anthology reflects his deep understand...

Octavius by Marcus Minucius Felix
Octavius is an ancient Roman dialogue that explores the religious beliefs and debates of the early Christian era. Through a conversation between a Chr...

Beacon Lights of History, Vol 5: The Middle Ages by John Lord
'Beacon Lights of History, Vol 5: The Middle Ages' by John Lord delves into the key religious figures and social issues of the medieval period. It off...

Adam and Eve by John Milton
Adam and Eve is a narrative poem by John Milton, first published in 1667, that tells the biblical story of the creation of Adam and Eve, their temptat...

Captivating Bible Stories for Young People by Charlotte Mary Yonge
This book presents a selection of Bible stories retold in a simple and accessible way for young readers. It covers stories from both the Old and New T...

Beacon Lights of History, Vol 4: Imperial Antiquity by John Lord
“Beacon Lights of History, Vol 4: Imperial Antiquity” by John Lord delves into the lives and legacies of prominent figures from the Roman Empire. It e...

Young Folks' Treasury, Volume 2 by Hamilton Wright Mabie
This book is part of a twelve-volume series that presents myths and legendary heroes from around the world. It is aimed at a junior audience and inclu...
Reviews for Golden Bough: The Magic Art and the Evolution of Kings, Volume 1
No reviews posted or approved, yet...