A clear and simple introduction to one of the fastest growing religions in the U.S. and Europe—its history, beliefs, rituals, and gods and goddesses drawn from ancient northern European traditions. Asatru is a modern Pagan tradition whose roots lie in the ancient myths, folklore, sagas, and historical artifacts of those who lived in pre-Christian times in what is now Iceland, Scandinavia, Scotland, Germany, and other parts of northern Europe. An accessible introduction to this heathen religion, including these key topics: a brief exploration of Asatru’s mythology; Its gods and goddesses, rituals, magical practice of divination, spells, and berserkrgangr (a form of trance magic); The moral virtues: courage, honor, loyalty, truth, hospitality, industriousness, selfdiscipline, self-reliance, and steadfastness; A look at various interpretations of the Asatru tradition, and the “hijacking” of its symbolism over the last two centuries.
