runecraft

Runecraft refers to the craft of creating and using runes—symbols drawn from historic runic alphabets believed to carry magical or symbolic power. In fantasy and gaming, runecraft is the practice of inscribing runes to empower objects, cast spells, or convey messages. The term appears in scholarly discussions of medieval and Norse magical practice as well as in modern fictional settings.

Historically, runic alphabets such as Elder Futhark, Younger Futhark, and Anglo-Saxon Futhorc were used for inscriptions, talismans, and divination. The magical associations of individual runes, and their combination, formed a system of correspondences. In medieval grimoires, runes were sometimes described alongside Latin magical traditions. Contemporary practitioners include neopagans and artists who draw on runic symbolism.

Practitioners may select runes by intention, arrange them into sequences or bind-runes, engrave or carve them on stone, wood, metal, or parchment, and empower them through ritual, meditation, or recitation. The meanings of runes are often contextual and can be enhanced by color, material, or placement. Some traditions emphasize alignment with cosmic or seasonal cycles.

In fiction, runecraft is commonly depicted as a skill to craft enchantments, protect wards, or summon power. In modern games and literature, it provides a modular magic system through rune stones or sigils. The Runecrafting skill appears in some fantasy games as a practical game mechanic tied to resource gathering and spell creation.

Scholars and practitioners view runecraft as a cultural and literary motif with varying interpretations across contexts, overlapping with mysticism, archaeology, and art.