So ancient that it is next to impossible to establish their exact date of origin. They are believed to have evolved from ancient Greek, Etruscan and Roman forms of writing, with three main runic alphabets recognized: English, Scandinavian and German, the latter also known as Futhark. The Runes emerged at a time when magic was part of everyday life. They were used as amulets, that is to say, assacred instruments for protection and divination, andhad a clear ritualistic function.