016 - V The Interpretation of the Fire Festivals

In this captivating installment of The Golden Bough series, Frazer delves into the intriguing title problem that underpins the entire work. He argues that the Golden Bough—the branch the King of the Wood, Diana’s priest at Aricia, vigilantly guards—was likely a mistletoe branch growing on an oak in the sacred grove. The plucking of this bough is a crucial precursor to the priests sacrificial demise, drawing a fascinating parallel to the Norse god Balder, worshipped in a revered grove by Norways scenic Sogne fjord. Balders legendary death by mistletoe—his only vulnerability—adds depth to this exploration. Additionally, this volume investigates sacred fire rituals and the seclusion of girls in primitive cultures, offering rich insights into ancient practices. - Summary by Leon Harvey