The colourful light phenomenon of the aurora borealis appears in the sparsely populated polar regions during the long winter's nights. Little is know about this ethereal occurrence, which gives dazzling displays of ghostly light and movement. The author reveals the mythology surrounding the aurora in different northern cultures, as well as the science behind the phenomenon. He discusses responses to the aurora, ranging from Aristotle to modern geophysicists, together with evidence from various cultures and traditions, thus charting the gradual understanding through history of this awe-inspiring experience. Demonstrating the influence of the sun in the creation of the aurora, Falck-Ytter compares the northern lights with other light phenomena such as lightning and rainbows. Beautifully illustrated, this book gives a comprehensive account of a mysterious dynamic which has fascinated and alarmed communities throughout the ages.