Pele Volcano Goddess of Hawai'i

<p> When the first Europeans arrived in the Hawaiian Islands in 1778 the volcano goddess Pele was the central deity of a complex religion in the volcano districts of Hawai'i Island. While native Hawaiians were quickly converted to Christianity Pele remained remarkably relevant as a deity. This book is a critical biography of the volcano goddess as well as a history of her religion. Topics covered include the ongoing belief in Pele her popular manifestations her ceremonies her new cultural roles and her current status in Hawai'i.</p>