At The Edge - No 05 - 1997 03

Magazine Overview

'At the Edge' is a magazine dedicated to exploring new interpretations of the past and its connection to place, encompassing archaeology, folklore, and mythology. This issue, No. 5, dated March 1997, is priced at £2.50 and edited by Bob Trubshaw. The cover features a striking illustration and highlights key articles, including 'The evolution of the eighteenth century Druid', 'A THREEFOLD COSMOS', 'Cosmic homes', and 'HOLLOW HILLS'.

Articles and Content

The Evolution of the Eighteenth Century Druid by Leslie Ellen Jones

This extensive article traces the changing perceptions of the druid over two millennia. Initially depicted by classical ethnographers like Posidonius, Strabo, Diodorus Siculus, and Caesar as central figures in Celtic society, responsible for government, education, and religious ritual, their image evolved. Later classical commentators, such as Pliny and Lucan, portrayed them as more reclusive figures practicing in secret. Medieval Celtic lives of saints show druids attempting to retain their status, while Irish law tracts of the same era classify them with undesirables. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in druids, but as figures of the past, particularly through the lens of rediscovered classical texts. Elizabethan scholars compared them to Persian Magi and Indian Brahmins, seeing them as having an intellectual past comparable to high-status ancient civilizations. The article discusses how the druidic religion was co-opted in the historiography of the transition from Catholicism to Protestantism, seen as a primitive form of Christianity awaiting a Messiah. By the 1740s, William Stukeley confidently asserted that druidic religion was extremely similar to Christianity. The author notes that while druids were undoubtedly a practicing priesthood, all available evidence comes from outside sources, with no written accounts from druids themselves. The eighteenth century marked a high point for druidic interpretation, with figures like Martin Martin and John Toland offering different perspectives. Martin's work on the Western Isles is framed within a plan for economic development, viewing druids' herbal lore as a source of potential financial gain. Toland, in his 'Critical History', introduced medieval Celtic literature into the discourse, challenging the disdain for Celtic superstitions and advocating for understanding Irish to avoid misinterpretations. Toland, a radical Deist, viewed druidic magic and Catholic miracles as tools for maintaining gullible credulity and control.

The association of druids with megaliths led to the image of the druid as a scientist and engineer. Classical ethnographers noted their expertise in 'natural philosophy' and medicine. In an age fascinated by nature and its 'improvement', the scientific druid was a glamorous figure. With archaeology nascent, classical texts and the Bible were the primary sources for understanding the past. The article explains how the lack of biblical references to Britain led to the assumption that all pre-Roman material remains were Celtic and therefore druidic. The task of correlating local prehistory with biblical history led to calculations about tribal migrations and language evolution, often with flattering results for the British, who were seen as near descendants of Noah. The author highlights the linguistic chauvinism in equating Hebrew and Welsh. A significant challenge for writers like Rowlands, Stukeley, and Borlase was reconciling the classical evidence of druidic savagery, particularly human sacrifice, with the desire to portray druids as likeable figures. The underlying agenda was to show druidism as a nascent form of Christianity, corrupted by Catholicism and later restored by the Anglican church. This led to a cyclical vision of British religious history, from pure faith to corruption, revitalization through Christianity, and subsequent decline and recovery.

Many of these amateur archaeologists and historians were clergymen who saw druids as men like themselves, perhaps more powerful. Towards the end of the century, the image of the druid morphed into that of the Romantic poet, influenced by the popularity of James Macpherson's Ossianic poetry, which emphasized the passion and emotionalism of the Celts. The article critiques the notion of 'forgery' in this context, questioning why Iolo Morganwg and Macpherson are labeled as forgers for incorporating contemporary ideas, while Dafydd ap Gwilym is praised. It notes that Iolo Morganwg successfully created a living tradition by instituting druidic ceremonials into the National Eisteddfod. The article concludes by suggesting that in defining druids, eighteenth-century writers were, in fact, defining themselves, and that contemporary musings on druids continue this process.

A THREEFOLD COSMOS: An introduction to the ancient Indo-European worldview by Alby Stone

This article introduces the work of Georges Dumézil and his theory of Indo-European (IE) tripartition. Dumézil's 1930 article in the Journal Asiatique proposed that ancient Indian and Iranian cultures were formally divided into three social classes: priests, warriors, and cultivators/artisans. This theory sparked a major reappraisal of IE myth, legend, and social tradition. Dumézil found references to priests, warriors, cultivators, and artisans in the Avesta and observed a similar pattern in later Iranian texts, Scythian, Ossetic, and Vedic traditions. In 1932, Emile Benveniste confirmed Dumézil's proposals, linking the tripartite social division to an Avestan myth of Yima. Dumézil further developed his theory, examining Roman priesthood and noting correspondences with Indian castes and Celtic social divisions. He also explored the concept of sovereignty in IE tradition, finding it often two-fold, comprising legal-juridical and magico-religious aspects. In 'Jupiter, Mars, Quirinus' (1941), Dumézil argued that IE tripartition was not limited to Indo-Iranian cultures but was a common heritage of the entire ancient IE world, influencing social structure, history, myth, ritual, and magic. His later works, 'Les dieux des Indo-Européens' and 'L'idéologie tripartie des Indo-Européens', synthesized his research. The tripartite schema was central to Dumézil's work until his death in 1985.

The article explains that Dumézil used the term 'idéologie' to encompass 'philosophy' and 'conception'. He identified three main 'functions' within the IE ideology, generally in a hierarchical order: the first function is sovereignty (legal-juridical and magico-religious), represented by kings and priests; the second is physical force, represented by warriors; and the third is fertility and prosperity, represented by food-producers and cultivators, often symbolized by equestrian twins. These functions are not just social strata but represent principles defining phenomena. The IE social tripartition is linked to the human body, with the cosmos being created from the dismemberment of a primordial twin. The Purusasukta hymn from the Rig Veda illustrates this, describing the cosmos being made from the division of Purusha, giving rise to social classes and cosmic layers. The article notes that while the transmutation of human tissue into cosmic matter is not unique to the tripartite pattern, the unity of humanity and cosmos is central. The trifunctional ideology is directly relevant to IE cosmogony, linking the creation myth to social structure.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes articles on 'Cosmic homes', 'Hollow Hills', and 'A peep at TAG96'. It features sections for ABSTRACTS, LETTERS, and REVIEWS, providing a platform for scholarly discussion and reader engagement. The cover art is credited to Norman Fahy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'At the Edge' consistently explores the intersection of ancient beliefs, mythology, and their interpretation in modern scholarship. A recurring theme is the re-evaluation of historical figures and concepts, such as the druids, through new lenses, moving beyond simplistic or romanticized views. The magazine also delves into comparative mythology and the structural analysis of ancient worldviews, as exemplified by Dumézil's tripartition theory. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is to present diverse viewpoints, acknowledging that the opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editor. The magazine appears to champion a rigorous, yet open-minded, approach to understanding ancient cultures and their enduring influence.

This issue of 'At the Edge' (No. 5, March 1997) is a scholarly exploration of the concept of 'tripartition' within Indo-European cultures, focusing on its manifestations in mythology, social structure, and architecture. The magazine delves into the theories of Georges Dumézil and the ongoing scholarly debates surrounding his work.

The Tripartite Ideology

The issue begins by discussing the ritual claiming of foreign territory in Roman tradition, invoking Jupiter, Mars, and Quirinus, and notes the recurrence of tripartite structures in Norse myth, exemplified by the tree Yggdrasil. It highlights the 'cosmos/body homology' as a recurring theme in Indo-European traditions.

Social Tripartition

The article details how Iranian society in the Avestan period was divided into three classes: priests, warriors, and farmers/artisans, mirroring the Indian division into Brahmanas, Ksatriyas, and Vaisyas. It references Herodotus' account of Scythian origins, where four golden objects, claimed by three brothers, represent three functions. Similar divisions are noted in Gaulish society (druids, equites, plebes) and Germanic traditions (Tuisto's sons). The Old Icelandic poem 'Rigsoula' is presented as an example of a god fathering children representing different social strata.

Divine Triads

The 'Capitoline triad' of Jupiter, Mars, and Quirinus is revisited, alongside other trifunctional sets of gods such as Odin, Thor, and Freyr in Norse myth. The article discusses the roles of these deities, with Odin as the leader, Thor as the warrior, and Freyr associated with fertility. It also mentions the Baltic trio of Patulas, Perkunas, and Patrimpas, venerated at the sacred oak of Romové.

The Three Sins of the Warrior

This section examines how the warrior, like the king, was expected to uphold the tripartite system. It presents examples from Indo-European traditions where warriors commit crimes against the functions, leading to punishment and loss of status. Indra's crimes in the Indian tradition and Starkad's transgressions in Norse myth are detailed, as is the career of Herakles and Gronwy Pebyr from Welsh mythology.

The Critics

The significance of the 'idéologie tripartie' is discussed as unique to the Indo-European speaking world. The article addresses critiques of Dumézil's theories, particularly from scholars like Wouter W. Belier, who question the methodology and empirical basis of his work. Despite criticisms, the pervasive presence of tripartition in various Indo-European cultures is presented as strong evidence for the theory.

Architecture and Cosmology

Cosmic Homes

This section shifts focus to the concept of 'cosmic homes,' exploring how dwellings in various cultures are seen as microcosms of the universe. It draws on examples from Native American traditions (Pueblo, Navajo, Kwakiutl, Pima), Guiana (Ye'cuanna), and Colombia (Kogi), highlighting how houses are oriented, structured, and symbolically linked to the cosmos, body, and social order.

Neolithic Houses in Orkney

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the late Neolithic houses of Orkney, particularly those at Skara Brae and Barnhouse. The article, reprinted from 'Architecture and Order: Approaches to Social Space,' by Mike Parker Pearson and Colin Richards, details the consistent architectural design, including the cruciform arrangement of internal space, the central hearth, and the 'box-beds.' The asymmetry in the size of these 'box-beds' and the entrance positioning are analyzed as reflecting distinctions of function, age, or gender, and possibly relating to a symbolic system of light and darkness.

Engendered Interiors

Analysis of the Barnhouse settlement suggests different practices occurred in different houses, with evidence pointing to gendered activities, particularly around the hearth. The consistent positioning of the entrance and the asymmetry in internal features are interpreted as reflecting a symbolic organization of space.

Prehistoric Cosmologies

The final section touches upon how archaeologists are increasingly recognizing the cosmological symbolism embedded in prehistoric structures, such as Neolithic chamber tombs. It suggests that detailed studies of archaeological records can help predict the cosmological symbolism prevalent in ancient societies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the pervasive nature of tripartite structures in Indo-European thought, the symbolic relationship between the human body, the cosmos, and social organization, and the way these concepts are manifested in both mythology and material culture, particularly architecture. The editorial stance appears to be one of scholarly inquiry, presenting Dumézil's theories and the evidence for them, while also acknowledging and discussing the critiques and ongoing debates within the field.

This issue of "At the Edge" (No. 5, March 1997) is a scholarly magazine focusing on archaeology, folklore, and cultural traditions, with a particular emphasis on the Neolithic period in Orkney and the broader themes of barrows, hollow hills, and their mythological associations.

Neolithic Houses and Spatial Organization

The issue begins by exploring the spatial organization of late Neolithic settlements in Orkney, using the Barnhouse settlement as a key example. The article discusses how the layout of houses, particularly the distinction between left and right-hand areas, reflects domestic roles and social discourse, with the left side often associated with women and domestic tasks like food preparation. This spatial arrangement is presented as a microcosm of the socially constructed world. Parallels are drawn with the 'Blackhouse' of the Scottish Western Isles, where similar spatial divisions were observed. The concept of orientation and directionality is introduced, suggesting that the cruciform arrangement of houses might relate to Neolithic cardinal directions centered on the hearth. An examination of house entrance orientations at Barnhouse, Skara Brae, and Rinyo reveals a prevalent north-west/south-east axis, also seen in Orcadian 'Maeshowe' passage graves, highlighting the importance of solar orientation.

Barrows and Hollow Hills: Etymology and Folklore

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the etymology and interpretation of terms like 'barrow' and 'hollow hill.' The article by Jeremy Harte addresses misunderstandings regarding these terms, noting that while 'barrow' is commonly associated with graves, its Old English root 'beorh' originally meant 'height' or 'high place.' Similarly, 'hlaew' can refer to a grave mound but also to a sloping hill. The text traces the evolution of these terms through different dialects and historical periods, showing how their meanings have shifted. Early antiquaries struggled to define these terms, often relying on local usage or pseudo-etymology. The article then delves into the folklore surrounding these sites, particularly 'hollow hills,' which are frequently depicted in legends as entrances to the Otherworld or dwellings of fairies. Stories from various regions, including Britain and Scandinavia, are cited, illustrating the persistent belief in supernatural beings inhabiting these mounds and hills. The connection between barrows and fairy dwellings is explored, with theories suggesting that fairies might be interpreted as memories of the Neolithic dead. The prevalence of fairy lore associated with hills, rather than exclusively with burial mounds, is highlighted.

Stonehenge Millennium Park Bid

A news item reports on English Heritage's application for an £83 million bid for the Stonehenge Millennium Park. The proposal aims to clear modern clutter, create a park free from intrusion, and build a new visitor complex. The article notes the involvement of the Tussauds Group and quotes Sir Jocelyn Stevens of English Heritage on the importance of investing in heritage.

Other Articles and Features

Other sections include a 'Further Reading' list for those interested in Neolithic Orkney, a 'Tradition' advertisement for a quarterly magazine, and advertisements for 'The Pendragon Society' and 'Dragon's Head Press,' which publish journals related to Arthurian studies and dragon lore, respectively. The magazine also features a section on 'Grappling with the dead man within,' discussing Scandinavian beliefs about gravemounds and their inhabitants, and 'Sir Gawain's Green Chapel,' linking literary descriptions of otherworldly places to archaeological evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of archaeology, folklore, mythology, and landscape. There is a clear interest in how ancient sites and beliefs continue to resonate in contemporary culture and how historical terms and legends are interpreted. The editorial stance appears to favor a nuanced understanding of these subjects, encouraging readers to consider multiple perspectives and the evolution of meaning over time. The articles often draw on a wide range of historical and ethnographic sources to support their arguments, demonstrating a commitment to in-depth research.

Title: At the Edge
Issue: No. 5
Date: March 1997

This issue of 'At the Edge' magazine delves into a variety of archaeological, folkloric, and historical topics, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches and the interpretation of ancient beliefs and practices.

Research in Geomancy 1990-1994

The lead feature is a bibliography on 'Research in Geomancy 1990-1994: Readings in Sacred Space', compiled by Jeremy Harte. This extensive bibliography is the result of a five-year trawl through disciplines such as archaeology, anthropology, folklore, and social history. It aims to provide an interdisciplinary picture of current ideas on sacred space, covering themes like fairy geography, pilgrimage, home as the cosmos, underworld caverns, sacred gardens, centres, and boundaries. The bibliography will be published on floppy disc, available in Windows Write format and plain ASCII, with a print-out option. It is planned for publication by Heart of Albion Press in early 1997, with prices for the disc only and for the disc with print-out.

5,000 Year-Old 'Death Platform'

This section reports on the discovery of what is believed to be a 5,000-year-old 'excarnation platform' at Stoney Middleton in the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire. This site, one of only two 'sky burial' sites found in England, contained hundreds of human teeth and bones and is dated to the Middle Neolithic period (around 3,000 BC). It is thought to have been used for funeral rites for 1,000 years. The platform was part of two Bronze Age barrows that were slipping into Longstone Rake. Archaeologists found evidence of small animal bones, likely from the droppings of birds of prey attracted to the decaying flesh. The area, part of the High Rake limestone escarpment, has a rich history of archaeological remains. The excavation was a rescue mission due to the precarious location of the barrows above a mined quarry. The platform was enclosed by a rubble wall with standing stones. Three Bronze Age human skeletons, along with a 'beaker' pot and other grave goods, were found in a central burial pit. Samples are being sent for genetic and dietary analysis. The report also mentions the re-excavation of a barrow previously opened by antiquarian Thomas Bateman. Dr Andrew Brown of English Heritage highlighted the importance of the find, and Ken Smith of the Peak District National Park emphasized its value for understanding burial practices.

A peep at TAG 96

Bob Trubshaw provides a summary of selected papers from the Theoretical Archaeological Group (TAG 96) conference. He notes the physical impossibility of attending all sessions due to the parallel running of multiple talks. A recurring theme was the 'Otherness' of the past, recognizing that ancient cultures did not share modern Western ways of thinking about place or time. The article highlights the use of computer databases and virtual reality models in recording recent excavations at Catal Huyuk, Turkey. An anthropologist studied the excavation process and local perceptions of the ancient monuments. Papers also discussed the meaning of breast-like features in Catal Huyuk houses and Ronald Hutton's views on the association of Neolithic 'Great Goddess' cults with academic thinking.

Shamans 'domesticated' cattle

David Lewis-Williams presented a paper suggesting that the domestication of cattle at Catal Huyuk might indicate the presence of prominent shamans. His argument links shamans' association with 'spirit animals' to the corralling of cattle, symbolizing spiritual power and control.

Colourful cairns

A session on Neolithic Scotland discussed cairns at Clava, noting that some cairns aligned with the midwinter sunset and used red and white stones, while others used less red. Andy Jones suggested that on the Isle of Arran, the use of red, white, and black stones might represent flesh, bone, and blood, respectively, linking to traditional magic.

Hooray for Holywood

Kenny Brophy presented research on cursus monuments near Holywood, Scotland, noting their alignment with astronomical events and landscape features.

Anglo-Saxon 'totem poles'

Phil Sidebottom's research on Anglo-Saxon cross shafts in Cheshire, Lancashire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Leicestershire suggests motifs are region-specific and that the crosses were erected between 911 and 950 AD, signifying the acceptance of Christianity and links with the Roman Church.

Archaeology and folklore

This all-day session covered various aspects of the relationship between archaeology and folklore. Miranda Green discussed the influence of Greek Classical mythology on the meaning of cauldrons in Irish myths. Robert Layton summarized the session, emphasizing that folklore offers an alternative way of representing the meaning of ancient monuments and distinguishes between the mundane and the Otherworldly. He warned that folklore might invert meanings and that methodologies are not foolproof.

Feminism, paganism and pluralism

Lynn Meskell's paper explored the concept of pluralism in post-processual archaeology, noting that while feminist and pagan perspectives are considered legitimate, scholastic boundaries often remain intact. She suggested that archaeology might be becoming self-conscious of its incorporation of modern ideas and should be aware of eschatological implications.

The Apocalypse

Kathryn Denang's paper, 'Apocalypse past/future: archaeology, destiny and revealed wisdom', examined how popular media and some academic archaeologists are addressing 'pre-millennial tension' and apocalyptic themes, drawing parallels with interpretations of the Mayan calendar and ancient Egyptian prophecies.

Abstracts

The Abstracts section covers several short research findings:

• Chanting in the chamber tombs: Preliminary research suggests megalithic chamber tombs may have been designed to resonate with chanting.
• Earthworks and jargon: Discusses the use of GIS in interpreting prehistoric landscape features and the significance of 'visibility barriers' and 'viewsheds'.
• Mine or shrine?: Reinterpretation of the flint mines at Grimes Graves suggests they were used for ceremonial artefacts rather than industrial purposes.
• First farmers = first brewers?: Tentative evidence from Scotland suggests early farmers may have brewed alcoholic beverages from meadowsweet and grain around 2330 BC.
• From the Original Tree: Excavations at Billown, Isle of Man, revealed a Neolithic site focused on a pit near a tree, with subsequent alignments and a Bronze Age house.
• Prehistoric mud art: A pre-Conquest cave site in Tennessee revealed 'mud-glyphs' inscribed into cave walls.
• 6000 years of Rainbow Serpents: Australian Aborigine paintings of Rainbow Serpents have been dated between 4,000 and 6,000 years old, showing continuity in rock art and spiritual beliefs.
• Spirit ways and death roads: The first in a series of articles exploring concepts like 'death roads' and 'ghost paths' in various cultures.

Other Sections

• From Avon to Avon: Discusses the significance of the three rivers named Avon in south-west England and their potential connection to Neolithic monuments.
• Somerset stones: Highlights little-known standing stones around the Mendips.
• Hill forts as social statements: Considers hill forts as complex 'social statements' rather than purely defensive structures.
• Surveyors and social order: Examines how surveying and map-making are implicated in social politics.
• Stone rows as observatories: Investigates stone rows on Mull as possible astronomical markers.
• Letters: Nigel Pennick discusses the history of the 'Green Man' inn sign, pushing its date back over 100 years and distinguishing between figures and foliate heads.
• Back issues: Lists available back issues of 'At the Edge' and its predecessor, 'Mercian Mysteries', with prices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of archaeology, folklore, and ancient beliefs, often challenging conventional interpretations and highlighting interdisciplinary research. There is a clear interest in 'sacred space', 'otherworldliness', and the 'meaning' behind ancient sites and practices. The editorial stance appears to favour a broad, inclusive approach to understanding the past, embracing diverse methodologies and perspectives, while also critically evaluating the evidence and potential biases, as seen in the discussions on feminism, pluralism, and the interpretation of ancient symbols.

Title: At the Edge
Issue: No.5
Date: March 1997

This issue of 'At the Edge' magazine presents a diverse collection of articles and reviews, primarily focusing on themes of folklore, archaeology, mythology, and cultural studies. The content spans historical and contemporary perspectives, with contributions from various scholars and readers.

Reader Contributions and Letters

Old Yews 'Reinstated' by Chris Jenkins: Jenkins responds to an article by Jeremy Harte, disagreeing with his conclusions about the age of yew trees. Jenkins argues that yews can remain for centuries without significant growth, even contracting in size, citing examples from Fountains Abbey and Bicknoller churchyard. He suggests that archaeological sites often reuse older materials and that yews can regrow from root systems, supporting their potential for great age.

Tree Veneration in the Peak District by Brian Rich: Rich clarifies details regarding an article by Paul Wain, identifying Churchtown and Darley as referring to the same tree. He corrects potential misinterpretations of place names and historical references, suggesting 'Gore Lane' likely derives from the Old English word for a triangular piece of ground.

Indian Tree Veneration by Robert Morrell: Morrell discusses the significance of tree veneration in India, particularly within Hinduism. He notes that Indian rural communities transmit religious traditions orally and that tree worship is an integral part of their faith. He references G.S. Pillai's work on tree worship dating back thousands of years and Sir John Marshall's opinion that it became subordinated to other cults after Aryanisation. The pipal tree (Ficus religiosa) is highlighted as sacred to Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, notably the Bodhi tree under which Siddhartha attained enlightenment.

Book Reviews

'From the Ashes of Angels' by Andy Collins (Reviewed by Bob Morrell, with response from Collins): Andy Collins responds to Bob Morrell's review of his book, defending his use of the Book of Enoch and the Book of Noah. Collins argues that Morrell failed to acknowledge the earlier Book of Noah and its influence on Enoch, and that Morrell dismissed potential connections to pre-Judaic polytheistic cults and Akkadian texts. Collins suggests that the Watchers may have been a shamanistic culture in Kurdistan.

Response from Robert Morrell: Morrell reiterates his criticism that Collins failed to adequately assess his theory against existing scholarly interpretations of ancient texts, suggesting ignorance on Collins' part. He also states that Collins' foundation is insecure due to recent research indicating that texts like the Book of Moses are reworkings of pre-Judaic polytheistic cults.

'The Cerne Giant' by Rodney Castleden (Reviewed by Jeremy Harte, with response from Castleden): Rodney Castleden responds to Jeremy Harte's review of his book, defending his translation of a Latin account of St Augustine's encounter with the Cerne Giant. Castleden clarifies the meaning of 'et Heliae typo', arguing it does not mean 'after the example of Elijah' but rather 'figure on a wall' or 'bas-relief'. He also defends his interpretation of the Brythonic language.

Response from Jeremy Harte: Harte clarifies his use of 'typus' in a medieval theological context, where it can mean 'example'. He also corrects Castleden's interpretation of the word 'Durotriges', suggesting it relates to 'water people' and that the British form was *dubro, not duro. He also notes that Ptolemy's Dunon is located at Hod Hill.

'That's no lizard...' by Alastair McBeath: McBeath critiques a caption in a previous issue, identifying a 'sprightly lizard' as a dragon due to its wings. He also discusses a three-quarter length Green Man figure from Durham Cathedral and expresses skepticism about a supposed anthropomorphic rock carving.

'THE CONCEPT OF THE GODDESS' edited by Sandra Billington and Miranda Green (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): Trubshaw praises this scholarly volume for its global perspective on goddesses, drawing on various cultures. He notes that the papers present a balanced view, highlighting the polyvalency of goddesses and challenging essentialist notions. He finds the research well-referenced but notes some reliance on outdated sources. Trubshaw concludes it is essential reading for 'At the Edge' readers.

'RE-VISIONING THE EARTH' by Paul Devereux (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): Trubshaw describes this book as 'packaged' for the American market and potentially wasted on readers due to its 'New Age' outlook. He states it is a culmination of Devereux's concepts, exploring healing channels between mind and nature.

'AN ETHNOGRAPHY OF THE NEOLITHIC: Early Prehistoric Societies in Southern Scandinavia' by Christopher Tilley (Reviewed by Alby Stone): Stone commends Tilley's application of social anthropology to Neolithic cultures in Sweden and Denmark. He highlights Tilley's interpretation of mortuary practices and gendered duality as significant insights. Stone praises the book's readability and its theoretical propositions, particularly the idea that future theories of material culture will be based on metaphor and metonymy.

'MAORI ART AND CULTURE' edited by D.C. Starzecha (Reviewed by Bill Griffiths): Griffiths finds this book to be an exceptional study that brings Maori culture to life, presenting artifacts as works of art rather than mere objects. He notes its detailed discussion of wood carving and fibre arts, and the insights into techniques used.

'ASPECTS OF ANGLO-SAXON MAGIC' by Bill Griffiths (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): Trubshaw hails this book as an exceptional study of Old English cultural history, filled with insight, wit, and erudition. He praises its comprehensive discussion of magical arts, the Anglo-Saxon cosmos, and various forms of divination. The book includes a sampler of magical texts in their original languages with translations.

'SAXON VOICES' (Runetree Press Cassette Tape) (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): Trubshaw recommends this cassette tape for its authentic rendering of Old English sounds, featuring Caedmon, Beowulf, and the Rune Poems.

'ALFRED'S DEFEAT OF THE VIKINGS' by John Peddie and Patrick Dillon (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): This paper is described as a detailed and closely-argued study attempting to establish the location of the Battle of Ethandun, a turning point in Alfred the Great's campaign against the Vikings.

'CASSELL DICTIONARY OF WITCHCRAFT' by David Pickering (Reviewed by Bob Trubshaw): Trubshaw expresses uncertainty about this dictionary, noting Cassell's reputation for reference books and Pickering's experience as an editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of folklore, mythology, archaeology, and cultural history. There is a strong emphasis on re-evaluating established historical narratives and challenging conventional interpretations, particularly in areas like ancient beliefs, symbolism, and the interpretation of archaeological evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor in-depth, scholarly analysis while also aiming for accessibility to a general readership. The inclusion of reader contributions and responses suggests an interactive and engaged approach to the subject matter.

Title: At the Edge
Issue: No.5
Date: March 1997

This issue of 'At the Edge' features an editorial reflecting on subscriber feedback and announcing upcoming changes, alongside book reviews and an advertisement for a new bookshop.

Editorial: Afterthoughts

The editorial expresses gratitude to subscribers for their prompt renewals and comments. The editor notes that while feedback was informative, there were no consistent criticisms, so no dramatic changes are planned. However, the magazine will continue to evolve.

A significant change announced is the adoption of the 'Harvard system' for references, replacing the previous 'old fashioned' end notes. The editor clarifies this is not to appear more scientific but to simplify the process for authors, editors, and readers. The Harvard system makes footnotes clearly additions to the main text, unlike the old system where references and commentary shared end notes.

The next issue (No.6) is announced as a 'special issue' focusing on 'sex and gender'. This theme is intended to popularize academic rethinking in this area. Contributors to this special issue will include Lynn Meskell (Cambridge University), who has written on 'Goddesses, Gimbutas and the "New Age" archaeology' and 'Constructing sex and gender in archaeology'. Hilda Ellis Davidson will discuss 'Women on the rampage', and other contributors will explore feminist approaches to Bronze Age Crete and the folklore of weaving and spinning.

The editorial highlights the positive reception of the 'Abstracts' section, which requires significant time and cost to prepare. While this issue's Abstracts section is shorter due to circumstantial reasons, a return to a more substantial section is promised for the future. Readers interested in this section are directed to Jeremy Harte's survey of 'Research in Geomancy 1990-94' (p29).

Finally, the editor thanks Norman Fahy for providing the cover illustration on short notice.

Book Reviews

Introduction to Witchcraft

• Author: Gwenfran Gwenan
• Edition: Third edition
• Publisher: Quest
• Year: 1996
• Format: A4, 31 pages, illustrated, stapled, card covers
• Price: £4.00
• Source: Marian Green, BCM-SCL QUEST, London, WC1N 3XX

This review describes the book as a wide-ranging and detailed history of witchcraft, with a concise and informative section on modern witchcraft. However, the reviewer, Bob Trubshaw, feels the compilation lacks input from someone with an active interest in modern-day paganism, resulting in a 'seemingly sound but unnecessarily lifeless reference work'.

Cassell Dictionary of Witchcraft (Implied comparison)

The review of 'Introduction to Witchcraft' contrasts it with the 'Cassell Dictionary of Witchcraft', suggesting the two might complement each other.

Gwenfran Gwenan's 'Introduction to Witchcraft' (Second Review)

This review, also by Bob Trubshaw, describes Gwenan's work as a 'different undertaking' from the Cassell Dictionary. It is a privately produced booklet offering a 'question and answer' approach to modern witchcraft, specifically wicca. The author has decades of experience teaching wiccan witchcraft.

The reviewer notes that while the book contains useful information, he is intrigued by 'unsupported assertions that 'hereditary' witchcraft is thriving' (contrary to Michael Howard's letter in ATE No.4). Furthermore, given the book's intended audience of those with little prior knowledge of modern witchcraft, the reviewer finds it uncomfortable that wicca is not portrayed as just one among many pagan paths.

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APRA Books announces the opening of their new bookshop at 56 Station Road, Sandiacre, Nottingham. The shop is located approximately 3 minutes from junction 25 on the M1.

They offer a wide range of books at sensible prices in fields including Archaeology, Cryptozoology, Earth Mysteries, Folk and Faerie Lore, Occult & Paranormal Studies, Ufology, Witchcraft, and 19th-century Freethought. They also stock National and East Midlands local history material.

APRA Books also trades by mail order, issuing approximately four catalogues per year, each listing around 500 titles. Interested parties can write to the shop for free catalogues.

Visitors to the shop will receive a 10% discount on secondhand books upon presentation of a current copy of 'At the Edge'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of 'At the Edge' appears to be one of continuous improvement and engagement with its readership, as evidenced by the response to subscriber feedback and the planned evolution of the magazine's content and format (e.g., referencing system, special issues). There is a clear interest in academic research and making complex topics accessible to a wider audience, as seen in the preview of the 'sex and gender' issue. The magazine also serves as a platform for reviews and announcements relevant to its readership's interests in witchcraft, paganism, and related esoteric subjects.