The Folklore of Birds

Tracing the magico-religious beliefs surrounding birds as far back in time as possible, to the cultures in which these beliefs arose, this fascinating study combines ornithology with social anthropology, psychology and comparative religion. Edward A. Armstrong brings his deep scholarship and scientific methodology to bear on the development of myth and ritual, examining familiar species with originality and ingenuity.

Focusing on well-known birds such as the swan, the raven, the owl, the robin and the wren, Armstrong traces the folklore surrounding each species back through history, treating these beliefs as an archaeologist would examine artefacts—classifying them in order according to epochs. Using archaeological data alongside oral and literary traditions, he illuminates the origins and significance of the folklore that has survived into modern times.

Along the way, many odd and interesting facts emerge, with explanations for customs such as breaking the wish-bone, fables concerning weather-prophet birds, and the curious medieval belief that Barnacle Geese were generated from shell-fish. The book features over 140 carefully chosen illustrations—photographs and line drawings from worldwide sources—of exceptional quality.