Tree Lore - Sally Coulthard

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Résumé :
From druids' oaks to deadly yews, tempting apples to erotic peaches, humanity has long imbued trees with spiritual and superstitious meaning.

Trees run deep in our folklore and mythology. Their leaves, branches, roots and fruits have all served as metaphors for human needs and desires - from strength and resilience to shelter and sustenance. Each species' unique qualities have inspired fables, sayings and symbolism.

In this new book, Sally Coulthard explores the enchanted world of tree folklore, where nature and legend intertwine. From lovers' trysting trees and festive firs to boughs of peace and hangman's favorites, she examines 50 of the world's most iconic species and their myths and magical associations. Discover the chivalric allure of medieval holly, how willow became a symbol of mourning, and why blackthorn was feared as the witch's tree. Learn why the Greeks revered the fig, the Vikings the mighty ash, and how the banyan came to embody protection and fertility.

Beautifully illustrated, Tree Lore: The Myths, Folklore and Meaning of Trees is more than a guide to familiar species - it reveals the rich, often surprising ways we relate to the natural world. Blending storytelling with botanical and cultural history, it places trees firmly at the heart of the human story....

Biographie:
Passionate about the countryside, Sally Coulthard is a best-selling author of over thirty non-fiction books about nature, rural history and craft. Her titles have been translated into over a dozen languages. Witty, engaging and hands-on, Sally shares her enthusiasm about all aspects of rural life, past and present. From the history of the landscape to native wildlife, superstitions to growing your own food, Sally loves to share her passion for the countryside through her writing, talks, interviews and presenting work. ...

Sommaire:
From druids' oaks to deadly yews, tempting apples to erotic peaches, humanity has, for thousands of years, imbued trees with spiritual and superstitious meaning.

Trees have deep roots in our folklore and mythology. Almost everything about them - leaves, branches, roots and fruits - has provided a metaphor for our human needs and desires. From strength to resilience, shelter to sustenance, we have taken each species' unique qualities and turned them into fables, sayings and symbolism.

In her new book, Sally Coulthard branches out into the world of tree folklore and finds an enchanted place where nature and legend intertwine. Whether it's lovers' trysting trees, festive firs, boughs of peace or hangman's favorites, Sally explores 50 of the world's most iconic species and their intriguing myths and magical associations. Discover the knightly allure of medieval holly, how willow became a symbol of mourning or when the blackthorn became the witch's tree. Find out why the Greeks adored the fig, the Vikings worshipped the mighty ash, or why the Banyan abounds with protection and fertility.

This beautifully illustrated book is more than just a guide to some of the world's best-known trees...