Re: St Helen's church | Forum — The Modern Antiquarian

FourWinds Jun 2, 2003 21:56:41

Replying to DarleyAncestor

As for Sheela-na-gigs ... they're all almost certainly of 12th century origin (maybe 10th if you push it) and almost certainly have nothing to do with 'The Goddess'.

Don't get me wrong. Sheelas are fantastic things. Unfortunately they (and the church) fall outside the remit of The Mod ant due to their recent age. However, here's one or two:

http://www.megalithomania.com/show_site.php?site_id=917

http://www.megalithomania.com/show_site.php?site_id=765

http://www.megalithomania.com/show_site.php?site_id=949

http://www.megalithomania.com/show_site.php?site_id=778

Well four. I must get to some of the others.

Good sources for Sheelas:

"Images of Lust" by Weir and Jerman

"The Witch On The Wall" by Anderson (I think)

"Sheela-na-gigs of Ireland and Britain" by Jack Roberts and someone else (I have lent this to someone so don't have it to hand - therefore not 100% on title either)

for a good general discussion on exhibitionist figures on churches.

DarleyAncestor Jun 4, 2003 18:50:51

Replying to FourWinds

Thank you for your reply. My Ancestor Sir Edmond d'Erle came over with William the Conqueror in 1066 and was given land that included St Helens church in Darley Dale. It would be interesting to know if the church was built while my ancestor was over it. What is it you believe the Sheila Na Gig to be? I have only read of fertility goddess possibilities and I am curious to learn your perspective. I am from Pleasant View, Utah USA so I am eager to learn and plan to make a trip to this place within a year :-)
Sherry

Shestu Jun 7, 2003 04:54:02

Replying to FourWinds

Holy Crap!! I just checked out your exhibitionist satan's groin site ;-( Is it any wonder so many people are sexually screwed up! You know what they say.... The people who talk the most about it are the ones not having it..... seems having it may have helped thier one track minds move to another subject! It's like telling a person NOT think of a pink elephant :-)