Quotes: Primitive Beliefs (6)

Shadows, Mirrors, Alligators and Pools

Primitive belief 202 " …its [the shadow’s] diminution should be regarded with solicitude and apprehension as betokening a corresponding decrease n the vital energy of its owner." Frazer, The New Golden Bough. As the shadow shrinks, so does the energy of its owner.

Primitive belief 202 "In Lower Austria on the evening of St. Sylvester’s day—the last day of the year—the company seated round the table mark whose shadow is not cast on the wall, and believe that the seemingly shadowless person will die next year." Frazer, The New Golden Bough. Watch out if you don't have a shadow.

Primitive belief 203 "When the…of New Guinea first saw their likeness in a looking-glass they thought they were seeing their souls." Frazer, The New Golden Bough.

Primitive belief 203 "The…say that a crocodile has the power of killing a man by dragging his reflection under water." Frazer, The New Golden Bough.

Primitive belief 203 "…a pool into which if any one looks he dies; the malignant spirit takes hold upon his life by means of his reflection in the water." Frazer, The New Golden Bough.