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Myths
and legends are often cautionary tales, but each of them relates
to specific events and periods of the faraway past, and contains a
kernel of truth. Even these immortal ladies were modeled on existing
heroines of old, who influenced society in times of turmoil.
Beside
the persecution of Pagans during the dark ages, many important
historical events punctuate the lives of these immortal ladies. The
Viking invasions in Scotland are front and center in books one and two.
Then the foundation of Luxembourg in books three and four. Feudal life
and religious struggles in France come to life in book five. The
greatest adventure of all times, the Crusades with their different
facets are depicted in books six and seven, and the best known legend of
Melusine the Fae in Aquitaine, the cradle of many royal lines, comes to
light in book eight.
But
who were these strong women who fought to survive against all odds, in a
world ruled by men, in a violent society where life had little value?
They
were Celtic and Pagan. They did not abide by the rules of the new
religion Charlemagne had imposed by the sword. They believed in equality
and refused to bow to the will of the men who would tame and control
them. They practiced kindness toward all and worked for the common good.
Early on, they symbolized hope and freedom for many, especially the
oppressed.
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| The ruins of the castles they built still stand. Here, Melusine's tower in Vouvant, Aquitaine. |
These
ladies were smart and astute politicians and influenced the rulers and
the historical events of their day. They had the welfare of their
community at heart. They fought for what was right in a world where the
powerful held sway with ruthless violence, and often with impunity.
These
ladies were not perfect. Far from it. Each of them made grave mistakes
in their youth, using their powers for purposes other than the common
good. For these mistakes, they were cursed, and spent their entire lives
dealing with horrible woes... all the time struggling to hide their
Pagan origins and avoid discovery by the Church... which would lead to
burning at the stake. They also sought redemption in the eyes of their
Pagan Goddess.
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| Melusine in her cursed shape still graces the walls of the Castle of Lusignan |
Even
in today's society, these ladies of old stand as a shining example. I
loved writing about them. Their names are rarely mentioned in the
history books, although they appear in many legends. But their famous
and infamous descendants blazed new trails throughout history.
I hope when you learn more about them, you will like them as much as I do.
Vijaya Schartz
Action, Romance, Mayhem
