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Pagan Marvel Same Sex: In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in paganism and its connection to same-sex relationships. Paganism, an umbrella term that encompasses various spiritual and religious practices rooted in ancient traditions, has long been associated with open-mindedness, acceptance, and a celebration of diversity. This inclusive nature has attracted many members of the LGBTQ+ community, who find solace and acceptance within pagan communities. One of the main reasons for this attraction is the lack of strict dogma or rigid rules within paganism. Unlike some more mainstream religions, paganism does not have a centralized authority that dictates what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior. This flexibility allows for a more fluid interpretation of gender and sexuality, creating a space where same-sex relationships can be celebrated and embraced.

Don Gillies

It would be easy for Nix to use magic as a solution for everything in his book, but he reminds readers through the words of Truthful s guardian that if something can be done without magic, it should be. She longs for the excitement of city life, and after a precious magical heirloom is stolen from under her nose on her eighteenth birthday, she receives adventure in spades.

This flexibility allows for a more fluid interpretation of gender and sexuality, creating a space where same-sex relationships can be celebrated and embraced. Many pagan traditions also have historical roots in cultures where same-sex relationships were normalized or even revered. For example, some Norse myths and legends depict same-sex relationships among the gods and goddesses, such as Odin and Loki.

Newt’s Emerald by Garth Nix

Truthful Newington, daughter of a retired Admiral, lives in the English countryside where nothing much happens. She longs for the excitement of city life, and after a precious magical heirloom is stolen from under her nose on her eighteenth birthday, she receives adventure in spades. Truthful sets out for London, intent on finding her family’s emerald, a stone which is supposed to help one control the weather. Once in London, it becomes apparent that a proper lady cannot go gallivanting all over the city looking for a stolen jewel, so she reluctantly disguises herself as her French cousin, Henri, in order to freely search. Along the way, she makes the acquaintance of Charles, a handsome but aloof army man who agrees to help “Henri” find the emerald, and who may just be clever enough to not only locate the missing stone but to be a fantastic match for the wit of Lady Truthful Newington.

Part Jane Austen, part Scarlet Pimpernel, part heist novel, and part magic, this story is a delightful read for those who enjoy Regency pieces. Nix weaves fantasy elements into his story with a skilled hand, from the idea that all well-bred families possess the ability to work some magic, to the hilarious mustache Truthful wears which helps build a glamour so she appears more like “Henri,” to the distinction between good and malignant magic. It would be easy for Nix to use magic as a solution for everything in his book, but he reminds readers through the words of Truthful’s guardian that if something can be done without magic, it should be.

While this book is lovely and well written, it does contain some cautions. Several characters swear, and only apologize when they know a lady is present. Alcohol is consumed in the story and talked about frequently. There are also several action sequences where shots are fired, punches are thrown, brawls occur, and murder is attempted (although thwarted). The villain perishes by an arrow through the eye and a nasty fall. The magic system is woven seamlessly through the narrative, but some families might find talk of “divining an outcome” too much. The only thing that is ever really “divined” is that a large group of people will attend a party.

If you have an older teen who enjoys Regency drama, and who has read things like Shakespeare or The Scarlet Pimpernel, this would be an enjoyable read. If you are looking for something a bit tamer by the same author, try Garth Nix’s Frogkisser!

Cautions: Language (Damn, one instance of a villain using the word hell-bitch, several uses of “My God”), Violence (see above), Drinking (see above), Magic (see above)

Overall Rating: 3.75 (out of 5)
Worldview/Moral Value: 3.5
Artistic Value: 4.0

*Image courtesy of Amazon

Truthful Newington, daughter of a retired Admiral, lives in the English countryside where nothing much happens. She longs for the excitement of city life, and after a precious magical heirloom is stolen from under her nose on her eighteenth birthday, she receives adventure in spades. Truthful sets out for London, intent on finding her family’s emerald, a stone which is supposed to help one control the weather. Once in London, it becomes apparent that a proper lady cannot go gallivanting all over the city looking for a stolen jewel, so she reluctantly disguises herself as her French cousin, Henri, in order to freely search. Along the way, she makes the acquaintance of Charles, a handsome but aloof army man who agrees to help “Henri” find the emerald, and who may just be clever enough to not only locate the missing stone but to be a fantastic match for the wit of Lady Truthful Newington.

These stories can serve as a powerful validation for LGBTQ+ individuals, showing them that their identities and relationships have a place in ancient traditions. Furthermore, paganism often emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of personal relationships with deities or spirits. This focus on personal experience and individual connection allows LGBTQ+ pagans to build a meaningful relationship with their spirituality, independent of societal expectations or norms. It provides a platform for self-expression and exploration, free from judgment or condemnation. Although pagan communities may not be entirely free from discrimination or prejudice, many strive to create safe and inclusive spaces for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. LGBTQ+ pagan organizations or groups have emerged to provide support, resources, and a sense of community for those who identify as both pagan and part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum. In conclusion, the intersection of paganism and same-sex relationships offers a unique space for LGBTQ+ individuals to explore their spirituality in an accepting and inclusive environment. The lack of rigidity and open-mindedness within pagan traditions fosters a sense of belonging and validation for those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. By highlighting the historical roots of same-sex relationships within pagan myths and embracing personal experiences, paganism provides a platform for self-expression, growth, and celebration – a truly marvelously inclusive space..

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