This book surveys the important available books on mythologies of all parts of the globe and the cultural contexts from which the mythological traditions emerged. Written as a series of bibliographic essays, the guide opens with a description of major reference sources encompassing many cultures, as well as those tracing particular themes (such as that of the creation) across cultures. The other bibliographic essays discuss sources for studying prehistoric mythologies, the mythologies of West Asian peoples (Mesopotamian, Biblical, Islamic, and others), South and East Asian mythologies, European mythologies, American Indian mythologies (North, Central, and South American), African mythologies, and the mythologies of the Pacific and Australia. An appendix on contemporary mythology--mainly American--discusses a wide range of works that examine the beliefs, traditions, and dreams that manifest themselves in spectator sports, politics, advertising, and forms of popular culture in the United States. (RL)

Embark on a captivating journey through the world of myths with "An Introduction to Mythology" by Lewis Spence. This comprehensive guide offers readers a deep dive into the myths, religions, and rationalism of various cultures. Spence's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this classic a treasure trove for mythology enthusiasts and scholars alike.

The Truth of Myth is a thorough and accessible introduction to the study of myth, surveying the intellectual history of the topic, methods for studying myth cross-culturally, and emerging trends. Readers will encounter insightful commentaries on such questions as: What is the relation of mythology to religion? To science? To popular culture? Did the events recounted in myths actually occur? Why does the term "myth" have so many contradictory definitions and connotations? Offering serious students with an intellectual "toolkit" for launching into this fascinating field, the book is especially useful in conjunction with case studies of individual mythological traditions.

In all cultures and at all times, humans have told stories about where they came from, who they are and how they should live their lives. 'Myths and Mythologies' brings together the key classic and contemporary writings - philosophical, psychological, sociological, semiological and cognitivist - on myth. To the insider, myths contain truth, revelation and a 'history of ourselves'; to the outsider, a culture s myths can be seen as the product of foolish, infantile and wishful thinking. Myths tell us about specific cultures, about human creativity, and how narrative shapes and reflects understanding. The 'Reader' is an invaluable resource for students and scholars interested in the impact of narrative on human culture and the meaning of truth in religious language.

This work by Andrew Lang discusses the state of mythology that was contemporary in his lifetime. Lang also uses anthropological evidence to enlighten his readers about the origins of mythology.

When is a story more than just a story? When does it become a myth? When it holds a piece of truth about our history, our morality, and the cosmos. Throughout history, humankind has use stories to explain the unknown. From the cycle of the moon to the changing of the seasons, tales about supernatural beings and events have served to account for the purpose of the cosmos. But mythology isn't entirely fiction, these stories have been passed down for generations for a reason. They also hold a kernel of truth about our ancestors and our world. You'll: - Take a peek at the stories on ancient Jewish scrolls that became the cornerstone of Jewish traditions, teachings, and laws. - Listen to ancient Egyptian tales of Ra, Isis, Osiris, and Horus and glimpse the core of Egyptian understanding of the cycles of nature. - See how the myths of the Norse and Vikings are tied to the growth of life and seafaring raids. - Glimpse the development of Christian faith and belief through the ancient stories of creation, floods, and Armageddon. - Learn how the Romans wove the tales of their people into lessons of morality, integrity, and politics. - Watch the Greeks capture their ideas and beliefs into narratives and poems of heroes, tragedy, and victory. Start your journey through humankind's oldest tales with Folklore, Myths & Legends: The History of Gods, Men and the Mythologies of the World and learn how ancient humans understood and explained the questions of the universe.