The Golden Bough: A Study of Magic and Religion

By James George Frazer

(3.5 stars) • 10 reviews

In a world of ancient rituals, a brutal fight to the death determined who would rule as priest, unveiling the hidden connection between magic, religion, and the dark side of humanity.

Genres

Paganism Mythology Philosophy & Ethics Religion/Spirituality/Paranormal Sociology

Released

2003-01-01

Formats

epub

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Summary

"The Golden Bough: A Study of Magic and Religion" by Sir James George Frazer explores ancient societies, focusing on the strange rituals and beliefs connected to the priesthood of Diana in Aricia, Italy uncovering insights into how magic and religion shaped ancient societies. The book starts with the violent ritual for becoming the King of the Wood, where the current priest must be killed by his successor, revealing the barbaric and primal aspects of this practice. This is placed within a larger discussion of magic and beliefs, suggesting these customs are not just odd historical events but show common themes in human society and it connects these practices to the legendary stories of Orestes and Hippolytus, laying the groundwork for his research of the basic ideas behind magic and religion.