Cultural Aspects of Trees: Traditions and Myths
University Outreach Publication
From the earliest human writings and myths, trees have represented the power and mystery of nature. Large, ancient trees seemed immortal, demanding respect and reverence. They could bare huge crops of seed and grow forests full of their own offspring. When struck by lightning or set aflame, trees, even in death, were creatures of worship, awe, and fear - the homes of gods. Every part of the globe has a myth about this "godliness." From the oak in central Europe, ash in Scandinavia, and Shorea in India, trees were revered. For further reading: Trees and Humankind: Cultural and Psychological Bindings.
(FOR96-47) November 1996
Kim D. Coder
1999
University of Georgia School of Forest Resources
Athens, GA
2
Children and Youth, Communications, Media, Perceptions/Values/Attitudes, Social and Cultural Impacts
International
Social concepts, Tree connections, Trees and culture