Greek and Roman
Magic of Gnats and Scorpions
“He came to Antioch, and on being besought by the inhabitants (since Antioch was tormented with scorpions and gnats), he made a brass scorpion and buried it in the earth.” […]
Mild
Eastern Europe
The Cruelty of Beauty
“They warm them to extreme heat, then undress, and after anointing themselves with an acid liquid, they take young branches and lash their bodies.” […]
Human Affairs
A Childhood on the Run
“He had a harp made that was so large that he put the girl Aslaug inside it, along with many precious objects of gold and silver. ” […]
Medieval Mentality
A Disagreement about Decapitation
“King Hrolf hadn’t been paying attention to their conversation, but he noticed the head flying off. King Hrolf became so angry at this that he was on the verge of attacking Asmund. He said that such a wicked and outrageous deed had been done that they would never recover from the disgrace.” […]
Humor
A Pussy for a Birdie
–“What are you asking for it, tell?”
–“My lady, for a fuck it’s yours.”
–“Saint Peter help me now, because
I haven’t any fuck to trade!” […]
Humor
A Gentleman Wets His Foal (In Bed)
‘“Where is your foal, sweetheart?” she said.
“Between my legs, my love,” he replied, “and you may touch him, but quietly, since he is very shy.”’ […]
Uncategorized
Never Trust a Horse Skull
“Dismounting from his horse, he laughed and remarked, “So I was supposed to receive my death from this skull?” And he stamped upon the skull with his foot.” […]
Viking
Laughing in the Face of Death
” I never saw, by heaven, a braver man; he collapsed half-conscious and leaning on his elbow welcomed his fate with a smile, laughed death to scorn, as he passed on to the other world exultant.” […]
Supernatural
Tremble Before the Mighty Cow
“When you see the cow come at us, cast me at her, and it shall go one way or the other—that I shall lose my life, or she shall have her bane.” […]
Supernatural
The Princess and the Troll
The maiden went, although she wasn’t willing. When she came so close that she could see the troll clearly, she said, “Will you take food, you big troll?” He turned towards her and glowered at her. She ran away and told the princess that she had now seen clearly that it was a male troll. […]