The Horse in Myth and Legend

The Horse in Myth and Legend examines the horse’s place in folklore, belief and storytelling, with particular attention to Viking, Celtic and Christian traditions. Sophie Jackson considers magical horses, unicorns, spectral mounts and tales of animals associated with ominous signs or extraordinary powers.

The book also looks at customs surrounding real horses, including protection from the evil eye, beliefs attached to unlucky omens and the practice of burying horse skulls beneath English church choir stalls. Alongside these reports and traditions, Jackson considers the horse’s practical, cultural and symbolic importance, showing how one familiar animal acquired roles in legend that range from companion and guardian to portent and supernatural creature.