James Frazer's monumental study of world mythology and folklore has been a controversial work for over a century. The Golden Bough is "a great body of primitive and barbarous beliefs" and essential reading for anyone interested in mythology, supernatural magic or religion, especially modern neo-pagan practices. More than one critic has said that it should be required reading for everyone.

"To read [The Golden Bough] is to share in the adventure of mankind's cultural Odyssey and