The friendly guide to mythology : a mortal's companion to the fantastical realm of gods, goddesses, monsters, and heroes

Introduces folklore from Greece, Africa, Asia, northern Europe, and the Americas, all of which explore such themes as death and the creation of the universe and man, and profiles goddesses and heroes featured in mythological tales.

How was the world as we know it created? What does it mean to be a hero? Where do we go when we die? Why are flood myths so ubiquitous? Anyone who has pondered these and other questions about humanity's ancient beliefs will be fascinated by The Friendly Guide to Mythology. Focusing on Greek and Roman mythology but including myths from Africa, Asia, Australia, northern Europe, and the Americas, The Friendly Guide to Mythology is filled with compelling stories of gods, goddesses, mortals, and monsters. Beautifully ornamented with photos, line drawings, and quotes, this entertaining guide also includes an A-to-Z listing of the world's most captivating goddesses; profiles of famous writers, collectors, and interpreters of myths; and engaging sidebars. Featuring myths of love, wisdom, and adventure as well as those of violence, jealousy, and pure folly, this accessible collection offers fascinating insight into the human psyche and brings our rich mythological heritage delightfully into focus.

Library Journal

Intended as a popular compendium of world myths, this broad survey is a limited, quickly referenced assembly of tales that includes gods, goddesses, origins, and beliefs. The anthology samples all eras and regions, attempting to refine the meaning of myth as it mutated into legend, saga, fairytale, and folklore while moving through such diverse cultures as Greek, Roman, Chinese, Native American, Yoruba, Mexican, Welsh, Inuit, and more. Unfortunately, the skillful prose and extensive coverage is compromised by a confusing format that arranges the material into five disjointed sections. The book's glossary and bibliography are, however, excellent. Recommended for comprehensive myth collections. Robert K. Burns, MSLS, Hatboro, PA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

pt. 1. Out of chaos, vast and dark -- pt. 2. Abecedarium of Goddesses -- pt. 3. Greeks -- pt. 4. Heroes -- pt. 5. Glossary: a compendium of gods, goddesses, monsters, and mortals. pt. 1. pt. 1. -- pt. 2. pt. 1. -- pt. 2. -- pt. 3. pt. 1. -- pt. 2. -- pt. 3. -- pt. 4. pt. 1. -- pt. 2. -- pt. 3. -- pt. 4. -- pt. 5. pt. 1.-- pt. 2.-- pt. 3.-- pt. 4.-- pt. 5.