Includes bibliographical references (pages 249-283) and index.
Contents:
Introduction -- His work undone: the Devil's ambitious projects fail -- Down tumbled the stones: landscapes shaped by the Devil's hand -- Have at thee! Churches shifted, targeted and raided by the Devil -- There stood the stranger: rash deals and binding promises with the Devil -- Off in a sheet of flame: fighting the Devil and escaping his clutches -- Neither inside nor outside: raising the Devil and laying him afterwards -- Woman's wit is better than man's: maidens and mothers beat the Devil -- Amid the shrieking of the storm: the Devil appears to carry off sinners -- To chase forever: the Devil is a huntsman, and souls are his prey.
Summary:
"According to legend, the English landscape – so calm on the surface – is really the Devil’s work. Cloven Country tells of rocks hurled into place and valleys carved out by infernal labour. The Devil’s hideous strength laid down great roads in one night, and left scars everywhere as the hard stone melted like wax under those burning feet. With roots in medieval folklore, this is not the Satan of prayer, but a clumsy ogre, easily fooled by humankind. When a smart cobbler or cunning young wife outwitted him, they struck a blow for the underdog. Only the wicked squire and grasping merchant were beyond redemption, carried off by a black huntsman in the storm." -- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.