Mythological meaning of a tree

Čuljak, Morana. (2016). Mythological meaning of a tree. Diploma Thesis. Filozofski fakultet u Zagrebu, Chair of Anthropology. [mentor Heršak, Emil].

PDF (Croatian) - Registered users only Download (731kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

The paper is divided into four basic sections. The first part introduces the key concepts – a plant and a tree. With each term a linguistic clarification is provided, i. e. the origin of those words as a kind of introduction to the work. Then we move on to general beliefs about trees where as the main division we describe cosmic tree, the tree of life and the tree of knowledge. After that we mention the meaning of the tree of life in shamanic rituals. Afterwards, we decscribe beliefs about trees in individual cultures, with a special focus on Nordic and Slavic culture. We have focused on the tree Yggdrasill in Norse mythology as one of the best examples of the cosmic tree. Then we briefly described some beliefs about trees among Slavic peoples. In spite that there are not many sources about Slavic mythology, it is known with certainty that in our areas trees had a significant role. In further examples we mentioned Sumerian, Greek, Egyptian, Native American and Indian mythology and symbolism, trying to show the universality of the symbolic understanding of trees in various archaic cultures. In conclusion, we said something about the role of trees in the modern age, when the symbolism and mythology no longer play a major role as they used to.

Actions (login required)

View Item