Fascination with snakes has been around since the dawn of time. Even today, images of snakes attract attention, fear, disgust, or admiration. Morgan examines that obsession with this mysterious creature, covering in vivid details such topics as mythical snakes like the Plumed Serpent, serpent iconography, tall tales, as well as the psychological symbolism that has attached itself to snakes. Cultures as diverse as pre-Columbian America, India, Egypt, China, sub-Saharan Africa, Celtic Europe, and the United States have all accorded the serpent a special place in their culture—apparently regardless of whether or not real snakes play an important part in the life of the people. Here, the mysterious nature of the snake unfolds, enchanting readers with a colorful and lively discussion of its place in our history, stories, religions, and cultures.
Diane Morgan is Adjunct Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Wilson College. Author of more than 30 books, she is a three-time winner of the Maxwell Award for excellence in writing on pet care. She is the author of Fire and Blood: Rubies in Myth, Magic, and History (Praeger, 2007), From Satan's Crown to the Holy Grail: Emeralds in Myth, Magic, and History (Praeger, 2007), and The Buddhist Experience in America (Greenwood, 2004).