Paganism: A Very Short Introduction

Product Description

' Paganism' is an evocative word that even today conjures up deep-seated emotions & prejudices. Until recently it was primarily a derogatory term used by Christians to describe the non-Christian cultures confronted & vanquished by their Churches. For some it evokes images of sacrifice & barbaric behaviour while for others it symbolises a peace-loving nature-worshipping spiritual relationship with the earth. This Very Short Introduction explores the meaning of paganism
- through a chronological overview of the attitudes towards its practices & beliefs
- from the ancient world through to the present day. Owen Davies largely looks at paganism through the eyes of the Christian world & how over the centuries notions & representations of its nature were shaped by religious conflict power struggles colonialism & scholarship. Despite the expansion of Christianity & Islam Pagan cultures continue to exist around the world whilst in the West new formations of paganism constitute one of the fastest-growing religions. Focussing on paganism in Europe but exploring the nature of paganism globally Davies looks at how Europeans discovered new cultures through colonial expansion missionary work & anthropological study. Contemporary social paganism can be a liberating & social force & the idea of a global Pagan theology is now on the religious map. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable.