The sun gods of ancient Europe (edição: 1991)

Sun-cults, are surprisingly diverse and complex. The author traces the development of sun-worship from megalithic tombs through Neolithic and Bronze Ages, to the great expansion in the late Bronze Age. Impact of climatic deterioration in northern Europe, and the complex perceptions of the Celts and Romans.

The Sun is understood as more than an astronomical natural body, it is a ruler protector-guardian, to be appeased and invoked. The symbol of our most important earthly concerns -- fertility and death. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of the penetration of the Sun-cult into divergent religious practices, which shadow our present life.

Excellent Bibliography, drawings, photographs, and Index. Omits much material - for example, linguistic studies, and the implications in the words used for "Hand" for example, as clues to the fact that we use euphemisms to avoid referring to an important god. In Sanskrit, the "god with big hands" Prthupani/Savitar, and in Celtic, Lugh Lamhbadha/Celtic Samildanach "long fingered arms" both of whom are affiliated with the Sun. Even though the author is familiar with Celtic, she fails to explore the linguistic associations - and perhaps for that reason fails to realize that Lugh is a sun-god [132].

The author otherwise provides abundant evidence. She would have more if she realized that the symbols, like words, are often euphemisms used to avoid referring to an important god.

For example the material on solar fertility-goddesses was new and convincing, if a little obvious. Tying Snakes to this fertility/comfort, while noting that "all snakes are carnivorous" [131a] and "an awesome, usually ground-based creature", makes her presentation breath-taking. Awesome. ( )