The Fairies´ Tiff with the Birds,
by Arthur Rackham
Birds
have been creatures of the mythic imagination since the very earliest times.
Various birds, from eagles to starlings, serve as messengers to the gods in
stories the world over, carrying blessings to humankind and prayers up to the
heavens. They lead shamans into the Spirit World and dead souls to the Realm
Beyond; they follow heroes on quests, uncover secrets, give warning and shrewd
council.