Introduction
Martha Rampton
This introductory chapter explores opposing semiotic systems in conflict as Carolingian ecclesiastics attempted to neutralize the power of what were, them, implausible, alien, or threatening rituals which women acted autonomously realm sacred. The mindset that were peripheral ecclesiastical affairs paralleled views about women's inability control occult through magic. reformers created an idealized picture largely passive and vulnerable, but particularly when it came spiritual matters, magic was a matter. Churchmen feared rites could nurture worldview reassumed “illegitimate” potency culture had systematically eroded. Religious secular authorities determined myths female power. establishment sought destroy matrix pagan symbols potential promote concepts majesty outside liminal space they incubated.
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