Description
The religious use of the hill-forts, of which there are so many dotted over the landscape, and their shrines is discussed. These are connected with mineral extraction, warfare, nemetons, and sacred groves. The use for standing totems and burial practices is also covered. Once the associations are made between deity, river, and folk-group, and all other aspects of religion have been discussed the deity who resided over the Dobunni is revealed. Her cult, which was evident in the major Roman towns, can be traced back into the Iron Age, and can be identified as the inspiration for the tribal name Hwicce . This shows an element of continuity in British culture, not recognised previously because of the assumed obliteration of British culture due to the extent, success, and longevity of the Roman occupation and Anglo-Saxon migration. Understanding the tribal goddess also explains why this people were "the tribe of witches". Finally, it is recognised that these gods did not perish but persisted in medieval legends, traditions and place-names. Although at its core this is a study of two British tribes, the work will have a major impact on the understanding of pre-Christian religion not only in Britain but also in Western Europe generally.
About the Author
Stephen Yeates is a junior research fellow at Wolfson College, University of Oxford and an Honorary Research Associate of the Institute of Archaeology, University of Oxford. His previous publications include Religion, community, and territory: defining Religion in the Severn Valley and adjacent hills from the Iron Age to the early medieval period (BAR 2006).
Reviews
Significantly increases our understanding of the social and religious structures of our ancient forebears and is a worthy addition to any bookshelf.' -- http://www.twistedtree.org.uk/Bookshelf.htm http://www.twistedtree.org.uk/Bookshelf.htm A devastating assault on what everyone thought they knew. It establishes the author as one of the foremost authorities on state-formation in early Britain, and should be read by everyone interested in our region.' -- Oxoniensia 73 Oxoniensia 73 The book is highly informative. The large amount of data systematically presented could be useful for scholars researching a number of different topics and the bibliography is extensive and valuable.' -- Cambridge Archaeological Journal Cambridge Archaeological Journal A stimulating discussion of a subject that has received little concentrated attention to date... The study is a brave attempt to tackle what is a difficult subject area and it deserves to be read by those interested in the pre- and post-Roman west of England.' -- Transactions of the Birmingham & Warwickshire Archaeological Society Volume 112 Transactions of the Birmingham & Warwickshire Archaeological Society Volume 112
Book Information
ISBN 9781842173190
Author Stephen James Yeates
Format Paperback
Page Count 195
Imprint Oxbow Books
Publisher Oxbow Books