Hilda Ellis Davidson wasn't an antiquarian.
Hilda Roderick Ellis Davidson ( born Hilda Roderick Ellis , 1 October 1914 -- January 2006 ) was an English antiquarian and academic , writing in particular on Germanic paganism and Celtic paganism . Davidson used literary , historical and archaeological evidence to discuss the stories and customs of Northern Europe . Gods and Myths of Northern Europe ( Penguin Books , 1964 ) is considered one of the most thorough and reputable sources on Germanic mythology . Davidson was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries , and was president of the Council of the Folklore Society from 1974 to 1976 , and served on the council from 1956 to 1986 .