Ronald Murphy offers an insightful examination of the lasting significance of Yggdrasil in northern Europe, showing that the tree's image persisted not simply through its absorption into descriptions of Christ's crucifix, but through recognition by the newly converted Christians of the truth of their new religion in the images of their older faith.

• 1. Introduction: Realization


• I: In Wood and Stone


• 2. The Norwegian Stave Churches


• 3. Bornholm's Round Churches and Baptismal Font


• 4. The Viking Crosses at Middleton


• II : In Poetry and Runes


• 5. The Dream of the Rood and the Ruthwell Cross


• 6. Yggdrasil and the Runes of the Elder Futhark


• III : In Yuletide Carol and Evergreens


• 7. Yggdrasil and the Christmas Tree


• Select Bibliography

Ronald Murphyis a George M. Roth Distinguished Professor of German at Georgetown University.