Will probably just nod my head a lot here, but here goes with some comments...
| Węlwulf wrote: |
| This is by no means a short or novice list, but it certainly helps to have as much grounding in the traditional materials as possible. (Note: Italicization be Earl) |
Absolutely! I was looking at some comments in the forum about Runes and Ogham and possible connections (I am generally disinclined to a connection) but in my mind it is not overly relevant? And why? you may ask. Because the Norse Runes are a devotion and discipline of the Norse people, who were culturally different enough from the Celts (and certainly earlier civilizations like Egypt). To understand the Runes in the context of those who mastered their use (even if they didn't develop them), you have to get in the heads of the Norse people. My opinion (and Waelwulf's, too).
| Węlwulf wrote: |
Old Norwegian Rune Rhyme
Old Icelandic Rune Poem
Old English Rune Poem
|
My blog has the Old Icelandic Rune Poem in the sidebar and links to the other poems. Highly recommended for anyone interested in runelore.
| Węlwulf wrote: |
All of the Eddas & Sagas (a solid understanding of the people that utilized the system is helpful)
Hollander has an excellent translation of the Poetic or Elder Edda. A word for word translation is also a good read.
Tacitus' Germania
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle
The works of Jacob & Wilhelm Grimm (especially Jacob Grimm's linguistic works)
The works of HR Ellis Davidson
|
A good list. On a personal level, the best book I have ever read
period is
The Sagas of Icelanders, a collection of some of the best Sagas which let you appreciate the ideals and philosophies of Northern Europeans (well, Norwegian and Icelandic, at any rate).
Egil's Saga is the best in my mind and there are passages that reflect Egil's use of the runes (he was clearly a master).
The Poetic Edda is also a
must read for anyone looking to appreciate the Norse way. I read the Larrington translation, not the Hollander, but the key idea is to read it period. Lastly, although not referenced here, I recommend the
Saga of the Volsungs, the
epic Norse tale.
| Węlwulf wrote: |
Having at least a passing knowledge of some different Germanic languages is helpful.
Last, but certainly not least... Any information on different neopagan movements (especially ceremonial magick from whence most things neopagan proceed), mainstream religions, & religious philosophy in general helps.
Having an understanding of everything that could possibly have influenced the system is, in my mind, critical. If you understand all of the others, you'll better be able to weed out the chaff from the grain. |
I'm not about to argue with Węlwulf other than just to caution some as not to apply the beliefs on Non-Norse neopaganism to Norse neopaganism. While I have no objection with, let's say Wicca, I have seen instances where the ceremonial usage of the runes does not always comply with some Wiccan or other practices. I prefer
whenevr possible to rely on the ancient sources and not on modern interpretation (or is that misinterpretation)?
| Węlwulf wrote: |
Of course, if you have no problems with eclecticism, then this is completely unnecessary.
There are many in various Germanic languages other than English, but I won't go into any of those as I haven't read many.
I'm sure I've missed some, maybe more will come another time. |
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