Rago semantema

Abstract

The paper analyses several cases of the symbolic representation of the horn in context of the ancient Lithuanian mythology. It was observed that both Perkūnas and Velnias, the two opposing deities, are represented with horns. This fact can be explained by the specifics of the mythical comprehension of the world. The representation of a serpent with horns is analysed in the context of the main Indo-European Myth, as well as in the context of the cult of Mother-Godess, a deity of fertility and birth. The major part of the paper is devoted to the Lithuanian Cornus Copiae, called Skalsa. In relation, certain aspects of fertility beliefs and customs are discussed, and some light is shed on the ’’case” of Skalsa, a deity of fertility, that was mentioned in the written sources of the 17-18th centuries. In addition, symbolic representation and use of Claviceps Purpurea, popularly called Skalsė, is taken into consideration.