Modern Pagans: An Investigation of Contemporary Pagan Practices

by John Sulak

Book Overview

Dozens of interviews cover a wide range of Pagan practices, from
witchcraft, Northern tradition, santeria, shamanism, Druids, Goddess
worshippers and more. The book covers important topics such as child
raising, living arrangements, sexuality (lots of that), music, and
bereavement (death), as well as the more spiritual side of Paganism.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1889307106
• ISBN13: 9781889307107
• Release Date: October 2001
• Publisher: Re/Search Publications
• Length: 209 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 8.0" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

Modern Pagans

"Modern Pagans" is an insightful look at the Neo-Pagan subculture, a diverse group of lifestyles, aesthetics, and spiritual practices. According to the introduction Paganism is the perfect spirituality for "feminists, environmentalist, futurists, artists, surrealists-all who dream for social change, live for creativity not the profit motive, and hate dogma and authoritarianism. In Paganism, humor is sacred; diversity welcomed; hierarchy depreciated; activism encouraged; the body is honored, and Mother Earth and every entity revered." "Modern Pagans" consists of intimate interviews of 50 Neo-Pagan leaders including Starhawk, Margot Adler, Isaac Bonewits, Thorn Coyle, Oberon Zell Ravenheart, and Patricia Monaghan. These leaders discuss such varied topics as history, myth, theology, sexuality, politics, and ritual from a Neo-Pagan perspective. Interviewees featured span such diverse traditions as Witchcraft, Druidism, Santeria, Asatru, Radical Faerie, Church of All Worlds, Shamanism, Techno-Paganism, Feri, Gardnerianism, and Reclaiming. Perhaps the best part about "Modern Pagans" is that the reader can survey a number of Neo-Pagan traditions directly from practioners. The reader is able to glimpse into numerous Neo-Pagan paradigms and get a deep understanding of how and why Paganism is practiced today. V. Vale has selected exceptional scholars that are both knowledgeable and warm to convey an accurate depiction of 21st century Pagan practices. It is the perfect book for anyone interested in contemporary Paganism and is essential for anyone starting out on the Pagan path. Highly recommended! Rating: 5 out of 5 magick wands! *courtesy of [...]*

Modern Pagans: For Pagans and Non-Pagans

Modern Pagans is an excellent collection of interviews with a diverse group of pagans. It is a great book for both pagans interested in learning more about their own spiritual group and non-pagans interested in paganism. It includes a nice mix of history and background and current information. The people interviewed are very articulate and knowledgable. I was also very impressed by the diversity of the interviewees; not only are "normal" pagans represented, but there are also interviews with former Catholic priests and military pagans. Especially impressive are the interviews with Starhawk and Margot Adler. I definitely recommend this book for anyone, of any experience level, interested in learning more about the current state of paganism.

Pagan or not-check it out!

I'm what you'd call a "potential Pagan." I have an awareness of and respect for Paganism, but no formal education. So I was very curious when I picked up a copy of the new RE/Search book, Modern Pagans, wondering if it would be either an watered down "Witchcraft 101," or, conversely, an inaccessible, heavy-handed tome on archaic theories and rituals. I was pleasantly surprised to find it to be neither. In this book, Paganism is defined as any polytheistic religion, so beliefs not usually considered Pagan exist comfortably here. The authors have managed to present an intelligent, comprehensive overview of numerous theologies laced with poignant commentaries and anecdotes from almost 50 practicing Pagans. The stories and paths each of these people tell and follow are as varied and unique as the ways they've managed to incorporate their beliefs into everyday life. Topics range from pagan parenting to polyamory (maintaining loving sexual relationships with more than one primary partner). With their frank discussions of sex parties, the Great Rite, and sacred prostitution some of these pagans may cause raised eyebrows in the more sheltered reader. Counterbalancing these, however, are, among other interviews, the introspective thoughts of Matthew Fox, former Catholic priest, excommunicated by Rome for his "feminist theology" and for associating too closely with Pagans. My favorite interview was with Joi Wolfwomyn, a Pagan and mother. Drawing on the isolation and "otherness" she felt as a bi-racial adopted child in a conservative Christian family, and the time spent in a mental institution as an adolescent, she tells how transcended her painful past.With an extensive glossary and recommended reading/resource list in the back (in addition to the ones scattered throughout the book), Modern Pagans is a priceless addition to any well-read theologian's collection, and a fascinating, approachable introduction to Paganism for the novice. Every page provided new information, every interview a fresh perspective.

RE/Search does it again

this book was out at a party of mine and my guests couldnt putit down. an unusual activity for a party of mine- reading a good thing. as an aging counter culture type of person myself, i found it very interesting to see where some of these people are today. yes there is alot about .... in this book. however i found the focus of the book for me was on the growth of a non paternalistic spirituality. for this reason alone the book was a welcome read i enjoyed it tremendously and shipped off copies to midwestern pagan groups i hope the book does well and finds it fills a need. buy the book! read it think about it pass it on

Incredibly Re/vealing

Re/Search has reliably published excellent interview books on a number of sub- and anti- cultural groups, so it is not surprising that their latest, Modern Pagans, is as well-executed as it is. A number of Pagan interview books have been released over the last handful of years, but Re/Search truly distinguish themselves by exploring the thinking of contemporary leaders with much greater depth than has been shown before. This book provides a brilliant snapshot of the people whose influence will shape the direction of the Neo-Pagan movement in the future, and brings into focus the challenges and level of discussion within it today. As a sample of the diverse personalities interviewed, one could give Starhawk on Doreen Valiente, Don Frew on Ronald Hutton, Margot Adler on the media, Isaac Bonewits on Neitzsche, Matthew Fox on his leaving the Catholic Church, and Carol Queen on the Great Rite. Definitely another success for Re/Search.