Myths of the Sacred Tree

Myths of the Sacred Tree

Essential to life on earth since the beginning of time, trees hold a special place in our collective consciousness: rooted in the earth, reaching skyward, nourished by the elements, and enlivened by the sap running through their veins, they provide a metaphor for what it means to be human.

Moyra Caldecott has gathered here a collection of myths celebrating the rich symbolism of trees, all bringing to life a time when the natural world was deeply respected and trees and forests were thought to be inhabited by spirits and divine beings.

Bound by the organized structure of modern life, the human spirit yearns for the wildness and freedom of primal nature represented by forests in their natural state. Caldecott’s book has captured and given voice to this spirit.

About the Author

Moyra Caldecott (1927-2015) was the author of more than 17 books and novels, including Women in Celtic Myth. With degrees in both English literature and philosophy, she devoted the major portion of her life to collecting and examining myths and legends across the world. Born in South Africa, she was married to the late painter and publisher Oliver Caldecott.