Myths and symbols in pagan Europe

the long version

Most people know of Valhalla, the World-Tree and the gods of Norse mythology, or of the strange hunts and voyages of the ancient Irish tales. Yet few people realise the significance of the similarities and contrasts between the religions of the pre-Christian people of north-western Europe. The Celts and Germans and Scandinavians had much in common in their religious practices and beliefs.... There are striking resemblances in their ideas about battle-goddesses and protective spirits, holy places, sacrificial rituals, divination and ideas about the Other World, and [this book] poses questions like: do such parallels go back to early times or are they due to late Viking contact?... [This book] is aimed at teachers and libraries but [is] also accessible to students of history, religion and Celtic, Norse and German languages and cultures. -Back cover.