μῦθοι Mythoi
Motif

Magic results of reversing a spell. Formula said backward will sometimes undo the work performed by the formula. (Cf. D1273.)

Magic. · Magic powers and manifestations. · Possession and means of employment of magic powers. · Means of producing magic power. · view the constellation · filed as D1783.1

Cited in the index
  • general *Kittredge Witchcraft 167, 485 nn. 31–33
  • general Penzer VI 149 n. 1, 150ff.
Within the index

Filed under Reverse magic. Magic results obtained by imitating reverse of desired results.

Filed beside it
Cure for leprosy by drinking from opposite lip of horn from that which caused it. (Cf. D1500.4.1, D1502.4.1.) Faster one walks, longer the trail. The slower, the shorter Power over monster (wizard, king) obtained by reversing orders. Hero does exact opposite of the command Magic turned against the makers, so that they are bewildered and kill themselves
Travels with (Thompson’s cf.)
Magic formula (charm)

ask the rhapsode about this motif · search the shelf for “reversing” · wander