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Throughout history, people have performed rituals at the launch of a new ship to invoke supernatural or divine protection for their vessel and those who will sail on it. The form of the ritual varies according to local custom and religion: from breaking a coconut to releasing doves to the role of astrologers in choosing an auspicious day for the launch. However, all launching ceremonies are underpinned by a sense of fear. When a new ship is launched, sailors watch for any sign that their ship is not in good condition. They are superstitious and seek reassurance that their ship and those who will sail on it are protected. The rituals of blood sacrifices and libations performed by the ancient Babylonians and Greeks are well documented. The development of this custom into the modern tradition of smashing a bottle of wine on the bow of a ship before it is launched, which still symbolises a sacrifice, is examined, as is the now widespread custom of inviting women to christen and launch new ships.
- Group
- Books (first-hand)
- Author
- Hodgkinson, George
- Title
- A History of Ship Launches and their Ceremonies
- Details
- English text, 45 bw-illustrations. 343 pages.
- State
- new
Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Church Street 47
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Vereinigtes Königreich
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
Responsible person
Berliner Zinnfiguren
Knesebeckstr. 88
10623 Berlin
Deutschland
[email protected]
Church Street 47
S70 2AS South Yorkshire
Vereinigtes Königreich
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
Responsible person
Berliner Zinnfiguren
Knesebeckstr. 88
10623 Berlin
Deutschland
[email protected]
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