Being Viking - Heathenism in Contemporary America - Jefferson F. Calico
Kith and Kin: Asatru as a Family Religion
Being Viking - Heathenism in Contemporary America - Jefferson F. Calico
Jefferson F. Calico [+]
Eastern Kentucky University
Jefferson F. Calico is an instructor in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Eastern Kentucky University where he teaches a variety of courses in Religious Studies. He currently serves as co-chair of the Religion and Ecology consultation for the Southeastern Commission on the Study of Religion. His research focuses on alternative religions in America.
Description
American Asatru initially idealized the image of the heroic Viking warrior. Over time, family and community life have taken on greater importance. Here, as in chapter 6, the interaction between ideology and ritual becomes important. Sumbel, another core ritual practice, is a socially oriented drinking ceremony. I examine how Heathens interpret and use the sumbel ritual to address issues of family, community, and belonging.