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R E S O U R C E S |
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―
AURORA VIEWING & PHOTO HANDBOOK
― |
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In Norwegian
folklore, the aurora is known harbinger of harsh weather (snow and
wind are believed to follow bright displays), or as a celestial
dance by the souls of dead maidens. |
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One Inuit
legend says that the aurora is created by spirits playing a game of
celestial football with the skull of a walrus, or even that a human
skull is used by walrus spirits. |
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Some tribes of
North American Indians believed the aurora to be the light of
lanterns carried by spirits seeking the souls of dead hunters, or to
guide the feet of new arrivals to heaven. |
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In Europe of
the Middle Ages, the northern lights were believed to be the breath
of brave soldiers who gave their lives as they battled forever in
the skies for their king and country. |
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The Aborigines
of Australia believed the aurora australis (the southern lights) to
be the dance of gods across the southern sky. |
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The twisting
snake-like forms of active auroral bands were often portrayed by the
ancient Chinese as celestial serpents, and may have given rise to
dragon legends. |
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