Religion and beliefs

[Shalomsamuels1]

I was actually disappointed about their lack of presence in the book. I don't think any of the 12 were even mentioned save for Apollo and Hades. Not even Zeus. I feel like they would be mentioned much more in those days. I mean, not even Ares!

[AliceofX]

I was actually disappointed about their lack of presence in the book. I don't think any of the 12 were even mentioned save for Apollo and Hades. Not even Zeus. I feel like they would be mentioned much more in those days. I mean, not even Ares!

Well, the story takes place in Celtic Britain, so I don't see why Greek gods would be mentioned that much, if at all.

[Ravinder+Kaur]

Your comment helps make me want to read the book even more now...do you think it was intentional on the author's part to have it be cursory, or do you think it was about not really delving too much into the mystical aspects of the spirituality?

To me, it felt as if there really were no gods or goddesses, just everyday people pretending to interpret messages from their gods. While there were elements of mysticism, I never got the feeling that actual gods were at play shaping the destiny of the characters.

I think it was totally intentional. It shows how rulers used the beliefs of their people to keep them under control. There is a scene in the beginning where the king tells the mystic how to interpret an omen from the gods so the villagers are appeased.

Very true. Religion is still used the same way it was ages ago. It was Kings or rulers then, it is the priests, pastors or the so-called messengers of God now. They deliver to you the version of the holy scripts as suits them.

[Princess Clara]

Sometimes, I believe that those ancient godd and goddesses actually existed. That might sound illogical but its what I believe. There were supreme beings that performed wonders to the people.

[oge123]

Do you see the power Gods and Goddesses and how they intervene with the story? They say they can change the peoples life in a whim. Do they put to much thought into it, and actually change their own?

Supernatural powers interfere in the lives of those who believe in them.
The characters believed in the existence of these powers and their ability to change their fate.

[Shalomsamuels1]

I was actually disappointed about their lack of presence in the book. I don't think any of the 12 were even mentioned save for Apollo and Hades. Not even Zeus. I feel like they would be mentioned much more in those days. I mean, not even Ares!

Well, the story takes place in Celtic Britain, so I don't see why Greek gods would be mentioned that much, if at all.

Your correct, I was referring to their Roman counterparts which I feel still should play a part.

[Shalomsamuels1]

I used their Greek names seeing as Marcellus refers to Hades though he should have referred to Pluto.

[CommMayo]

Very true. Religion is still used the same way it was ages ago. It was Kings or rulers then, it is the priests, pastors or the so-called messengers of God now. They deliver to you the version of the holy scripts as suits them.

Bingo! Just look at how different the current Pope is compared to the last. He is a single person guiding the Catholic religion throughout the world. He is leading by his own interpretation of scripture.

[Wa_hu]

To me, it felt as if there really were no gods or goddesses, just everyday people pretending to interpret messages from their gods. While there were elements of mysticism, I never got the feeling that actual gods were at play shaping the destiny of the characters.

Neither did I, they were mostly just relying on their own judgement.

[skarllette13]

I am still reading this book, but I instantly took a liking to this book. I am drawn more to the fact that they mentioned one of my deities in the book (among other things). I like Catrin because she kind of reminds me of myself, however, I'm not finished reading it. I left off on the part where Marcellus stayed as a hostage, and Catrin's oldest sister left with Marcellus' father and army. I find myself wanting the day to go by quickly just to have time to myself and read it. At this time, I really pace myself. Can't wait to see what happens next.

[Helen_Combe]

I do not think there are societies that still believe in gods and goddesses.

Tell that to the 1 billion Hindus.

Exactly. Or 520 million Buddhists or the Serer in Africa.

[jennyd2003]

I think it portrays well since it is about a time when gods and goddesses ruled. It wouldn't hurt the story had they not been written in but I feel that it help make the story more real rather than a quick read.

[Vickie Noel]

I think the author was able to portray the presence of the gods and goddesses fairly enough.

[kwahu]

I think this would be viewed in the context of whichever era one reasons from. before civilization, gods took the center-stage in almost everything. In modern society the story is different as so many people don't belief in the power of gods.

[abbiejoice]

Gods and goddesses can and do sometimes act on a whim because they act mostly as humans do, they just happen to have more power and because of that, more ability to do good or to destroy. Only the True God is holy because He acts with purity of intention and does not act on a whim.