THE WOODWOSE IN SUFFOLK & BEYOND: A pictorial guide., 2019
Who is, what is and where is a Woodwose?
A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly foun... more Who is, what is and where is a Woodwose? A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly found carved in stone or wood and particularly concentrated within Suffolk churches. They are also found in other counties and countries across Europe. The figure is usually seen as naked but covered with hair and a long beard, grasping a club. There are occasionally female woodwose found as well. Woodwose can be wild and exuberant or stationery and sentient but they are always enigmatic and a part of that dark ‘other’ world. Variants of woodwose include having a shield, standing, sitting, kneeling or having crossed legs. They can also be seen fighting a dragon or being attacked by a lion. Very occasionally they may ride a horse or other animal. Sometimes they just get into your head and stay there! Pete Jennings has had over twenty books published on folklore, mythology, Paganism and the supernatural. He has not just researched a pictorial guide but provided the historical and wider contextual analysis. It will enable the reader to understand the possible origins and thinking behind this mysterious creature.
Maybe the time has now come to embrace a darker, mysterious side of the North European mythos, d... more Maybe the time has now come to embrace a darker, mysterious side of the North European mythos, distorted, multi-faceted and enthralling: The Wild Hunt.
PENDA, Heathen King of Mercia: his Anglo Saxon world
Penda was an obscure yet dynamic character living in turbulent times. He expanded the Mercian emp... more Penda was an obscure yet dynamic character living in turbulent times. He expanded the Mercian empire with daring, diplomacy and warcraft. This is the first book dedicated to bringing his scarce references together and providing a balanced investigation into this 7th-century enigma. Yes, the battles, politics and dynastic struggles are there, but they are set against the context of the general Anglo-Saxon customs of food, dress, slavery, art and competing religions.
A CACOPHONY OF CORVIDS: the mythology, facts, behaviour and folklore of ravens, crows, magpies, rooks and their relatives, 2017
Birds that show empathy, make and use tools, problem solve and recognise faces: no wonder corvids... more Birds that show empathy, make and use tools, problem solve and recognise faces: no wonder corvids are at the heart of many myths and folktales. From their role in keeping Britain safe at the Tower of London to the companions of the Viking god Odin, this unique illustrated look at the enigmatic world of ravens, crows, magpies, rooks, and their cousins should give you food for thought and a new understanding of what makes them the most special of birds.
Valkyries, selectors of heroes: their roles within Viking & Anglo Saxon Heathen beliefs., 2016
Within Anglo-Saxon and Viking mythology, the Valkyries are the choosers of the slain heroes from ... more Within Anglo-Saxon and Viking mythology, the Valkyries are the choosers of the slain heroes from the battlefield. These heroes are selected to go on to a warrior heaven of fighting and feasting. The Valkyrie image has varied from powerful, screaming, bloodthirsty, armoured female spirits to beautiful, tragic drink bearers in Asgard. Examine the evidence for who or what they are both within history and today.
This extensive multi-disciplinary examination of ancient artefacts, historic documents and sagas ... more This extensive multi-disciplinary examination of ancient artefacts, historic documents and sagas is a ground-breaking survey of the various Viking Warrior cults. It features experimental archaeology, colour illustrations and competing academic arguments.
The Pagan Thinker: some aspects of Modern Western Paganism., 2021
Modern Pagans and Heathens in the UK, Europe and N. America do not need anyone to tell them what ... more Modern Pagans and Heathens in the UK, Europe and N. America do not need anyone to tell them what to do. There are, however, many accepted ideas within Paganism that are rarely discussed and analysed in depth. As a result, we are in danger of creating an orthodoxy without realising it!
This book seeks out some relevant topics to consider, whether you are an established Pagan, Druid, Heathen, Shaman, Witch or a beginner thinking about your path. It is also of vital interest to the academic trying to understand the rapid changes in the esoteric scene over the last decades: what issues cause distrust or disinterest by Pagans seeking authoritative sources of information?
Amongst the topics are identity, ethics, magic, community, deities and sacred places. Theology, leadership, rituals, symbology and the very future of Paganism are also examined. This should give you something challenging to consider and a way of evaluating the overload of available information and its sources. Without being told what to do or think, you should then be able to make up your own mind.
HEATHEN PATHS: Viking and Anglo Saxon Pagan Beliefs., 2018
Since the original publication of this book in 2007 many fresh archaeological investigations and ... more Since the original publication of this book in 2007 many fresh archaeological investigations and academic studies have been published. There have also been some important new developments in the modern Heathen world and its’ institutions and the trends of thinking and influences of leading individuals. I have therefore undertaken a complete revision of the entire text before re-publishing it. Once again, I have sought to present facts in their ‘raw state’ including contradictory evidence and made it clear when I am including my own opinions so that readers can make up their own minds as to what they believe to be the truth. Of course, in many cases we may never know what the ‘truth’ was, and in other cases the practice will differ from one geographical location to another. They may also differ as the several centuries of dynamic cultural developments changed the historic practices of Germanic and Scandinavian cultures. I have also footnoted many references so as not to interrupt the flow of the text for the reader.
It is also natural that we evolve personally as modern Heathens, and I would think it sad if I had not developed personally in my beliefs, knowledge and practices since setting out on what was known as an ‘Odinist’ path so many years ago. (Which in turn was re-labelled Northern Tradition, Asatru, Theod and many more poorly defined epithets.) I am not ashamed of what I have done or written before, as that was the result of my studies and the information available to me at that time. With new knowledge and experience comes the responsibility to develop, re-appraise and even reinvent the way I function within my spiritual path. I would fervently hope that readers will embrace a similar approach. There then comes the relatively recent tension between the ‘re-constructionist’ (recon) and non-recon ‘folkish’ adherents, with a lot of angst between the two. My own approach is to take the useful bits of historic practice when we can find it to augment the more modern (and sometimes more culturally appropriate) methods. Personally, I do not tend to use much Old Norse or Old English within rituals since I am not a language scholar, although I do have some knowledge. Neither do I believe that all historic practice is appropriate: we live in different times, when keeping slaves and sorting out disputes by combat are frowned upon. However, we can still draw upon some of the spirit of those times: being brave and standing up for our principles, keeping our promises, living honourably etc. As people we are as diverse as our ancestors, and just like them we are likely to adopt differing roles in our society, with varying amounts of commitment and ability. The role of a volva was very different to that of a gothi or gytha, and still is now. Neither may be a suitable role for a modern Heathen but may be considered. The use or even belief in magic is frowned upon by some Heathens, and they are entitled to their opinions. The recent development of some Heathens giving special attention to Loki (sometimes known as Rokkatru) has been quite divisive but I believe that we should celebrate our diversity and continue to be independent spiritual thinkers.
THE WOODWOSE IN SUFFOLK & BEYOND: A pictorial guide., 2019
Who is, what is and where is a Woodwose?
A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly foun... more Who is, what is and where is a Woodwose? A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly found carved in stone or wood and particularly concentrated within Suffolk churches. They are also found in other counties and countries across Europe. The figure is usually seen as naked but covered with hair and a long beard, grasping a club. There are occasionally female woodwose found as well. Woodwose can be wild and exuberant or stationery and sentient but they are always enigmatic and a part of that dark ‘other’ world. Variants of woodwose include having a shield, standing, sitting, kneeling or having crossed legs. They can also be seen fighting a dragon or being attacked by a lion. Very occasionally they may ride a horse or other animal. Sometimes they just get into your head and stay there! Pete Jennings has had over twenty books published on folklore, mythology, Paganism and the supernatural. He has not just researched a pictorial guide but provided the historical and wider contextual analysis. It will enable the reader to understand the possible origins and thinking behind this mysterious creature.
Maybe the time has now come to embrace a darker, mysterious side of the North European mythos, d... more Maybe the time has now come to embrace a darker, mysterious side of the North European mythos, distorted, multi-faceted and enthralling: The Wild Hunt.
PENDA, Heathen King of Mercia: his Anglo Saxon world
Penda was an obscure yet dynamic character living in turbulent times. He expanded the Mercian emp... more Penda was an obscure yet dynamic character living in turbulent times. He expanded the Mercian empire with daring, diplomacy and warcraft. This is the first book dedicated to bringing his scarce references together and providing a balanced investigation into this 7th-century enigma. Yes, the battles, politics and dynastic struggles are there, but they are set against the context of the general Anglo-Saxon customs of food, dress, slavery, art and competing religions.
A CACOPHONY OF CORVIDS: the mythology, facts, behaviour and folklore of ravens, crows, magpies, rooks and their relatives, 2017
Birds that show empathy, make and use tools, problem solve and recognise faces: no wonder corvids... more Birds that show empathy, make and use tools, problem solve and recognise faces: no wonder corvids are at the heart of many myths and folktales. From their role in keeping Britain safe at the Tower of London to the companions of the Viking god Odin, this unique illustrated look at the enigmatic world of ravens, crows, magpies, rooks, and their cousins should give you food for thought and a new understanding of what makes them the most special of birds.
Valkyries, selectors of heroes: their roles within Viking & Anglo Saxon Heathen beliefs., 2016
Within Anglo-Saxon and Viking mythology, the Valkyries are the choosers of the slain heroes from ... more Within Anglo-Saxon and Viking mythology, the Valkyries are the choosers of the slain heroes from the battlefield. These heroes are selected to go on to a warrior heaven of fighting and feasting. The Valkyrie image has varied from powerful, screaming, bloodthirsty, armoured female spirits to beautiful, tragic drink bearers in Asgard. Examine the evidence for who or what they are both within history and today.
This extensive multi-disciplinary examination of ancient artefacts, historic documents and sagas ... more This extensive multi-disciplinary examination of ancient artefacts, historic documents and sagas is a ground-breaking survey of the various Viking Warrior cults. It features experimental archaeology, colour illustrations and competing academic arguments.
The Pagan Thinker: some aspects of Modern Western Paganism., 2021
Modern Pagans and Heathens in the UK, Europe and N. America do not need anyone to tell them what ... more Modern Pagans and Heathens in the UK, Europe and N. America do not need anyone to tell them what to do. There are, however, many accepted ideas within Paganism that are rarely discussed and analysed in depth. As a result, we are in danger of creating an orthodoxy without realising it!
This book seeks out some relevant topics to consider, whether you are an established Pagan, Druid, Heathen, Shaman, Witch or a beginner thinking about your path. It is also of vital interest to the academic trying to understand the rapid changes in the esoteric scene over the last decades: what issues cause distrust or disinterest by Pagans seeking authoritative sources of information?
Amongst the topics are identity, ethics, magic, community, deities and sacred places. Theology, leadership, rituals, symbology and the very future of Paganism are also examined. This should give you something challenging to consider and a way of evaluating the overload of available information and its sources. Without being told what to do or think, you should then be able to make up your own mind.
HEATHEN PATHS: Viking and Anglo Saxon Pagan Beliefs., 2018
Since the original publication of this book in 2007 many fresh archaeological investigations and ... more Since the original publication of this book in 2007 many fresh archaeological investigations and academic studies have been published. There have also been some important new developments in the modern Heathen world and its’ institutions and the trends of thinking and influences of leading individuals. I have therefore undertaken a complete revision of the entire text before re-publishing it. Once again, I have sought to present facts in their ‘raw state’ including contradictory evidence and made it clear when I am including my own opinions so that readers can make up their own minds as to what they believe to be the truth. Of course, in many cases we may never know what the ‘truth’ was, and in other cases the practice will differ from one geographical location to another. They may also differ as the several centuries of dynamic cultural developments changed the historic practices of Germanic and Scandinavian cultures. I have also footnoted many references so as not to interrupt the flow of the text for the reader.
It is also natural that we evolve personally as modern Heathens, and I would think it sad if I had not developed personally in my beliefs, knowledge and practices since setting out on what was known as an ‘Odinist’ path so many years ago. (Which in turn was re-labelled Northern Tradition, Asatru, Theod and many more poorly defined epithets.) I am not ashamed of what I have done or written before, as that was the result of my studies and the information available to me at that time. With new knowledge and experience comes the responsibility to develop, re-appraise and even reinvent the way I function within my spiritual path. I would fervently hope that readers will embrace a similar approach. There then comes the relatively recent tension between the ‘re-constructionist’ (recon) and non-recon ‘folkish’ adherents, with a lot of angst between the two. My own approach is to take the useful bits of historic practice when we can find it to augment the more modern (and sometimes more culturally appropriate) methods. Personally, I do not tend to use much Old Norse or Old English within rituals since I am not a language scholar, although I do have some knowledge. Neither do I believe that all historic practice is appropriate: we live in different times, when keeping slaves and sorting out disputes by combat are frowned upon. However, we can still draw upon some of the spirit of those times: being brave and standing up for our principles, keeping our promises, living honourably etc. As people we are as diverse as our ancestors, and just like them we are likely to adopt differing roles in our society, with varying amounts of commitment and ability. The role of a volva was very different to that of a gothi or gytha, and still is now. Neither may be a suitable role for a modern Heathen but may be considered. The use or even belief in magic is frowned upon by some Heathens, and they are entitled to their opinions. The recent development of some Heathens giving special attention to Loki (sometimes known as Rokkatru) has been quite divisive but I believe that we should celebrate our diversity and continue to be independent spiritual thinkers.
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Books by Pete Jennings
A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly found carved in stone or wood and particularly concentrated within Suffolk churches. They are also found in other counties and countries across Europe. The figure is usually seen as naked but covered with hair and a long beard, grasping a club. There are occasionally female woodwose found as well.
Woodwose can be wild and exuberant or stationery and sentient but they are always enigmatic and a part of that dark ‘other’ world.
Variants of woodwose include having a shield, standing, sitting, kneeling or having crossed legs. They can also be seen fighting a dragon or being attacked by a lion. Very occasionally they may ride a horse or other animal. Sometimes they just get into your head and stay there!
Pete Jennings has had over twenty books published on folklore, mythology, Paganism and the supernatural. He has not just researched a pictorial guide but provided the historical and wider contextual analysis. It will enable the reader to understand the possible origins and thinking behind this mysterious creature.
This book seeks out some relevant topics to consider, whether you are an established Pagan, Druid, Heathen, Shaman, Witch or a beginner thinking about your path. It is also of vital interest to the academic trying to understand the rapid changes in the esoteric scene over the last decades: what issues cause distrust or disinterest by Pagans seeking authoritative sources of information?
Amongst the topics are identity, ethics, magic, community, deities and sacred places. Theology, leadership, rituals, symbology and the very future of Paganism are also examined. This should give you something challenging to consider and a way of evaluating the overload of available information and its sources. Without being told what to do or think, you should then be able to make up your own mind.
It is also natural that we evolve personally as modern Heathens, and I would think it sad if I had not developed personally in my beliefs, knowledge and practices since setting out on what was known as an ‘Odinist’ path so many years ago. (Which in turn was re-labelled Northern Tradition, Asatru, Theod and many more poorly defined epithets.) I am not ashamed of what I have done or written before, as that was the result of my studies and the information available to me at that time. With new knowledge and experience comes the responsibility to develop, re-appraise and even reinvent the way I function within my spiritual path. I would fervently hope that readers will embrace a similar approach.
There then comes the relatively recent tension between the ‘re-constructionist’ (recon) and non-recon ‘folkish’ adherents, with a lot of angst between the two. My own approach is to take the useful bits of historic practice when we can find it to augment the more modern (and sometimes more culturally appropriate) methods. Personally, I do not tend to use much Old Norse or Old English within rituals since I am not a language scholar, although I do have some knowledge. Neither do I believe that all historic practice is appropriate: we live in different times, when keeping slaves and sorting out disputes by combat are frowned upon. However, we can still draw upon some of the spirit of those times: being brave and standing up for our principles, keeping our promises, living honourably etc. As people we are as diverse as our ancestors, and just like them we are likely to adopt differing roles in our society, with varying amounts of commitment and ability. The role of a volva was very different to that of a gothi or gytha, and still is now. Neither may be a suitable role for a modern Heathen but may be considered. The use or even belief in magic is frowned upon by some Heathens, and they are entitled to their opinions. The recent development of some Heathens giving special attention to Loki (sometimes known as Rokkatru) has been quite divisive but I believe that we should celebrate our diversity and continue to be independent spiritual thinkers.
A woodwose is a full-bodied wild man figure, mostly found carved in stone or wood and particularly concentrated within Suffolk churches. They are also found in other counties and countries across Europe. The figure is usually seen as naked but covered with hair and a long beard, grasping a club. There are occasionally female woodwose found as well.
Woodwose can be wild and exuberant or stationery and sentient but they are always enigmatic and a part of that dark ‘other’ world.
Variants of woodwose include having a shield, standing, sitting, kneeling or having crossed legs. They can also be seen fighting a dragon or being attacked by a lion. Very occasionally they may ride a horse or other animal. Sometimes they just get into your head and stay there!
Pete Jennings has had over twenty books published on folklore, mythology, Paganism and the supernatural. He has not just researched a pictorial guide but provided the historical and wider contextual analysis. It will enable the reader to understand the possible origins and thinking behind this mysterious creature.
This book seeks out some relevant topics to consider, whether you are an established Pagan, Druid, Heathen, Shaman, Witch or a beginner thinking about your path. It is also of vital interest to the academic trying to understand the rapid changes in the esoteric scene over the last decades: what issues cause distrust or disinterest by Pagans seeking authoritative sources of information?
Amongst the topics are identity, ethics, magic, community, deities and sacred places. Theology, leadership, rituals, symbology and the very future of Paganism are also examined. This should give you something challenging to consider and a way of evaluating the overload of available information and its sources. Without being told what to do or think, you should then be able to make up your own mind.
It is also natural that we evolve personally as modern Heathens, and I would think it sad if I had not developed personally in my beliefs, knowledge and practices since setting out on what was known as an ‘Odinist’ path so many years ago. (Which in turn was re-labelled Northern Tradition, Asatru, Theod and many more poorly defined epithets.) I am not ashamed of what I have done or written before, as that was the result of my studies and the information available to me at that time. With new knowledge and experience comes the responsibility to develop, re-appraise and even reinvent the way I function within my spiritual path. I would fervently hope that readers will embrace a similar approach.
There then comes the relatively recent tension between the ‘re-constructionist’ (recon) and non-recon ‘folkish’ adherents, with a lot of angst between the two. My own approach is to take the useful bits of historic practice when we can find it to augment the more modern (and sometimes more culturally appropriate) methods. Personally, I do not tend to use much Old Norse or Old English within rituals since I am not a language scholar, although I do have some knowledge. Neither do I believe that all historic practice is appropriate: we live in different times, when keeping slaves and sorting out disputes by combat are frowned upon. However, we can still draw upon some of the spirit of those times: being brave and standing up for our principles, keeping our promises, living honourably etc. As people we are as diverse as our ancestors, and just like them we are likely to adopt differing roles in our society, with varying amounts of commitment and ability. The role of a volva was very different to that of a gothi or gytha, and still is now. Neither may be a suitable role for a modern Heathen but may be considered. The use or even belief in magic is frowned upon by some Heathens, and they are entitled to their opinions. The recent development of some Heathens giving special attention to Loki (sometimes known as Rokkatru) has been quite divisive but I believe that we should celebrate our diversity and continue to be independent spiritual thinkers.