~RELIGIOUS WITCHES?~
My novel, Spur of the Moment deals with twelfth century Wicce (Wiccans or Witches to the modernized world) and Mystics (Pagans).
It is important to note that Wiccans and Pagans are not Satanists. Both groups hold a belief in the sacredness of nature and a willingness to embrace the Divine within ourselves. Their belief systems have nothing to do with the Satan attributed to the Christian devil. The “pentacle,” usually misconstrued as a symbol of Satan, actually represents the four classical elements: earth, air, fire and water, as well as the fifth element of Spirit or Self in Wiccan and Pagan iconography.
Pagans believed in magic as part of the natural world around them. Long before Christianity, pagans worshipped the earth and elements that provided them with light and life. Spells and remedies were used for a variety of things from fertility, healing to protection and self- empowerment. Although slight, there were differences between the ancient beliefs. However, whether considered a Wicce, Druid or Mystic, they all fell under the general term of Paganism. Today it would be likened to groups branching off from Christianity, i.e. Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, etc.
In Spur of the Moment, the mystics Bronwyn and Gwyllion are considered the seekers of light whereas Jaenelle the wicce is considered dark or evil. Without touching too much on the plot, the darkness Jaenelle invokes is more representative of the madness within her. Of course, I took a little artistic license with the fact that if someone wants something bad enough, he or she may just get it.
Blessed be,
Candace Bowen Early
March 10, 2011
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Candace, I am fascinated by this because the power-system in King’s Envoy is clearly very close to yours. My Artesans too draw power from the four elements of earth, water, fire and air, and use these powers in a variety of ways. And, as has often happened throughout history, they are sometimes viewed with suspicion, or even downright hatred.
Although I have drawn my power-system from various sources such as Druids, Wiccans and Mystics I have tried to give it a slighty different twist. I shall read your book with interest to see how we each deal with the subject!
After reading your interesting posts, I find we have a lot in common, Cas. I so look forward to your book. I know it would be something I would be drawn to on my own.
Thanks for commenting!
This sounds absolutely fascinating, Candace! My novella, Thirds, deals with elves who pretty much worship the earth. It has been interesting to build that world. I can’t wait to read your book!
Thanks, Michelle! I loved writing it.
Thirds sounds like it’s right up my alley. I absolutely love fantasy fiction. If you have an elf that looks similar to Legolas, I’m in!
Candace, my elves are definitely reminiscent of the elves from Middle Earth. They are very connected to the earth and trees and nature. And, of course, the love interest elf is hot, hot, hot.
Woo-hoo! Count me in.
Thanks, Candace, I feel the same about yours. It’ll be great to exchange views!
Michelle, I look forward to reading Thirds as well.