Le ferment divin (french edition) by Dominique Fournier | MSH

"The Divine Ferment" is a major work that delves into the symbolism associated with fermented products, such as alcoholic beverages and bread, in the sacred rites of various cultures. The authors, including renowned anthropologists and historians like Salvatore D'Onofrio and Dominique Fournier, analyze the connection between these foods and blood in ritual practices.

Fermented beverages hold a central place in many sacrifices, funeral rites, and fertility festivals throughout history. These drinks are not only perceived as divine gifts but sometimes embody the deity itself. When consumed according to specific rites, they allow humans to commune with their god. However, when these drinks are desacralized, they lose their social role and endanger the future of the societies that consume them.

This book offers a unique perspective on the journey of our culture, from its Indo-European roots to its encounter with the New World. The authors highlight the disruptive effects of the introduction of distilled beverages, which supplanted traditional fermented liquors.

"The Divine Ferment" draws on the contributions of eminent specialists such as Jean-Pierre Albert, Valeria Andò, Antonino Buttitta, Franco Cardini, Martine Courtois, Claudine Fabre-Vassas, Françoise Frontisi-Ducroux, Jean-Jacques Glassner, Bertrand Hell, François Lissarrague, Luigi Lombardi Satriani, Oddone Longo, Alessandro Lupo, Charles Malamoud, and Gianna Petrone.

With its 264 pages, this rich and documented work is a must-read for those interested in ethnology, the history of religious rites, and food symbolism. Published by the Maison des sciences de l'homme in the Ethnology collection, this book offers an in-depth analysis that will captivate both specialists and enlightened amateurs.

The book is available in paperback format, measuring 23 x 15 x 1.8 cm and weighing 440 g. It is published in French, with EAN13 9782735104468 and ISBN 978-2-7351-0446-8. Its publication date is April 12, 1995.