Nine Worlds of SEID‐MAGIC: Ecstasy and Neo‐Shamanism in North European Paganism
Anthropology of Consciousness September 1, 2003 DOI: 10.1525/ac.2003.14.2.94 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis book examines the revival and adaptation of shamanic practices within contemporary North European Paganism, focusing on the concept of 'seid-magic'—a form of ecstatic trance practice historically associated with Norse and Germanic traditions. The author explores how modern neo-shamans reconstruct and reinterpret these ancient techniques, blending historical sources with personal experience and community ritual. The work argues that these practices serve as a means of spiritual exploration, identity formation, and connection with pre-Christian worldviews, while also addressing issues of cultural authenticity and appropriation within modern Pagan movements.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Contemporary North European Pagans practicing neo-shamanism |
| Citations | 21 |
| Key finding | Argues that modern neo-shamanic practices among North European Pagans represent a creative reinterpretation of historical ecstatic traditions, balancing historical authenticity with contemporary spiritual needs. |
Abstract
Nine Worlds of SEID‐MAGIC: Ecstasy and Neo‐Shamanism in North European Paganism. Jenny Blain. London and New York: Routledge, 2001. 192 pages $20.95 Paperback.