The Cap of Liberty: Roman Slavery, Cultural Memory, and Magic Mushrooms
Adrastos Omissi
Folklore September 1, 2016 DOI: 10.1080/0015587x.2016.1155371 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Etymology Magic telescope Mushroom Speculation Literature Classics Botany |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key points | Argues that the name Liberty Cap for Psilocybe semilanceata derives from an ancient Roman social practice, providing a conclusive etymology. |
Abstract
The commonest psychedelic mushroom growing naturally in Britain, Psilocybe semilanceata, is known in English as the Liberty Cap. This name, which references an ancient Roman social practice, has caused considerable speculation in modern literature. This article provides a conclusive etymology for how a magic mushroom acquired this obscure name.
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