The Magic of the Horse-shoe, with other folk-lore notes

"The Magic of the Horse-Shoe, with Other Folk-Lore Notes" by Robert Means Lawrence is a collection of folk-lore explorations written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the origins and significances of various superstitions and popular beliefs, with a particular focus on the cultural history and magical connotations surrounding the horse-shoe as a talisman. It examines how such symbols have influenced human behavior and cultural practices over time, making it a rich resource for those interested in folklore and superstitious traditions. At the start of the text, the author introduces the study of popular customs and beliefs as a window into early human thought. The preface sets the tone for the exploration by discussing the evolution of the horse-shoe from a practical item to a symbol imbued with luck and supernatural properties, detailing historical practices and anecdotes, including a tale of Queen Elizabeth I and the tradition of giving horse-shoes as tokens of reverence. The author emphasizes the horse-shoe's dual significance: as a pragmatic tool for horses’ welfare and as a guardian against malevolent forces, showcasing the depth of cultural traditions attached to this seemingly simple object. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Robert Means Lawrence was an American physician and writer.