The Magic of the Horse-Shoe

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Magic of the Horse-Shoe

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Robert Means Lawrence's late-Victorian study explores the horseshoe's origins as a protective talisman against witches and demons. Blending folklore, history, and archaeology, the book traces the evolution of iron-shoeing and examines related superstitions involving salt, sneezing, and the ominous number thirteen, offering a scientific yet accessible look at ancient human beliefs.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Magic of the Horse-Shoe,' Robert Means Lawrence explores the deep historical roots of popular customs, arguing that even trivial superstitions offer unique insights into the human mind of early times. The work begins by examining the practical history of the horseshoe, noting that while ancient Greeks and Romans did not universally shoe their horses, archaeological evidence confirms the use of iron footwear for protection and status, ranging from Nero's silver-shod mules to the Normans' introduction of the craft to England. Lawrence details how the horseshoe's crescent shape led to its adoption as an arch-shaped talisman against witches, paralleling the blood of the Passover and the protective rowan arches of Scotland. The text expands to other bifurcated objects like horns and crescents, which were universally believed to ward off evil spirits, citing examples from Sicilian nobility to the talons of birds. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the sacred nature of salt. Lawrence explains why spilling it was considered an omen of broken friendship or demonic interference, and why it was used to protect infants before baptism. He addresses the superstition of helping oneself to salt at the table and the fear of even numbers, culminating in a detailed analysis of the number thirteen. He explores its association with the Last Supper, the goddess Berchta, and the 'Deil's Dozen,' while noting cultural variations where thirteen is auspicious, such as among the Mayas. Throughout, Lawrence maintains that while these beliefs may seem like relics of paganism, they are proper subjects for scientific research. Ultimately, he encourages readers to transcend such superstitions through faith in Divine Providence, asserting that indifference to alleged omens fosters a deeper dependence on God.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/robert-means-lawrence_magic-of-the-horse-shoe.epub

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Categories

• Folklore