Cassell Dictionary of Superstitions - Softcover

Alphabetically arranged by subject, this guide highlights a diverse range of popularly held fears and beliefs. Many are still familiar and widespread yet others now belong firmly in the past. Entries vary from brief accounts of the superstitions related to specific daily tasks, medical ailments, plants and animals, to expansive discussions of wider topics, such as weather, childbirth, and death. In addition, many traditional rhymes and chants are included, ranging from couplets to be chanted to avoid the dangers of being bewitched, to spells that may be tried in the hope of gleaning information about the future.