FiRe
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Why is Fire a classical Element?
The Myth of
Salamanders and Prometheus
In Greek tradition fire was linked to Passion, Assertiveness and energy.
It is thought to have been first used in the Silurian Period 420 million years ago. When it was used as a source of light and heat. As well as warding off predictors and insects with the smoke.
Without an external heat source in a house or building we would have had to find other ways to keep our bodies warm and at the correct temperature.
If you are out in the wild it is essential to try and build a fire during the day to purify any water sources found. Or to keep your self warm during the night.
Salamanders are a type of amphibian which look a lot like lizards.
In the 16th century they were thought to have been born/created from the flames of fires because of the way they would hibernate between burnt out logs.
When the fire was lit the creatures would be woken from their slumber and escape, being perceived as they had been created here.
From modern research into these creatures it is found that their skin is not fire proof and they are just like any other creature in that way.
From ancient Greece there is also the Myth of Prometheus, God of Fire. He was a Titan and very good at playing tricks. It was said that as punishment for tricking Zeus, he banned Fire from mortals e.g. us.
Prometheus stole it back to return it to us. This only angered Zeus more entitling Prometheus to have his liver eaten by an eagle for eternity.
By giving us Fire he also enabled us to build civilizations, discover science and art and much more.
To maintain the "Great Balance" There are Nymphs of all kinds. Fire Nymphs are rare and can control Fire with their hands. Some believe they can generate enough to wear as clothes.
How to start a fire in the wild?
Just 5 Steps
1. Go Collect!
Search your area for a range of logs to use. You will need lots of small twigs to start the fire as well as big branches to keep the fire alit for a longer period of time.
2. Arrange the Tinder.
Place down in a small pile twigs, dry leaves, cotton wool (if you have any). To Get the fire going.
3. Set it alight!
If you have a match use this to lit your tinder. If you don't you could use flint and steel or a glass flare to get things started.
4. Maintain good Air flow.
If your fire is lit but is taking a while to get going, then use a plate or your breath to breath more air into it. This will either get the fire to spread faster on your tinder or it will go out. This is where a few goes may be needed to get the fire to stay alive.
5. Build it up.
As you are battling with the previous step it is also good to add extra tinder. This will constantly give it extra fuel to keep it going. As it grows bigger branches and heavier logs can be added so you can sit back and enjoy watching the flames keep you warm.
Well Done you just learnt how to build a fire in the wild!