Abstract
Although much has been written on the theme of the bear (see Michel Pastoureau's excellent L'ours. Histoire d'un roi déchu, Paris, Editions du Seuil, 2007), many aspects still deserve further research. This study examines the role of the bear in ancient and medieval worships and mythologies, showing the inadequacy of simplistic interpretations. In particular, it is inappropriate to speak of "typical" Celtic or German traditions regarding symbolic connections between men and bears, nor can it be said that the bear was-before Carolingian times and in a "Germanic" context-the absolute model of kingship.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 721-740 |
| Number of pages | 20 |
| Journal | Rivista Storica Italiana |
| Volume | 126 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2014 |
| Externally published | Yes |