The cap of liberty: Roman slavery, cultural memory, and magic mushrooms

Omissi, A. (2016) The cap of liberty: Roman slavery, cultural memory, and magic mushrooms. Folklore, 127(3), pp. 270-285. (doi: 10.1080/0015587X.2016.1155371)

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Abstract

The commonest psychedelic mushroom growing naturally in Britain, Psilocybe semilanceata, is known in English as the Liberty Cap. This name, which references an ancient Roman social practice, has caused considerable speculation in modern literature. This article provides a conclusive etymology for how a magic mushroom acquired this obscure name.

Item Type:Articles
Keywords:Liberty cap, Roman slavery, magic mushrooms, etymology, French Revolution, American Revolution.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Omissi, Dr Adrastos
Authors: Omissi, A.
College/School:College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Classics
Journal Name:Folklore
Publisher:Taylor and Francis
ISSN:0015-587Xl
ISSN (Online):1469-8315
Published Online:11 November 2016

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