Synopsis
This is a mythical bestiary and pantheon drawn from all cultures, past and present. Alphabetically ordered, over 4000 entries describe the origins and significance of mythological beings and legendary figures and events. The dictionary includes gods and goddesses from all major world faiths and cultures, together with sprites, spirits and beliefs from the folklore of ancient civilizations in Eastern and Western Europe, America and Australasia. Included are fabulous beasts, birds, insects and fish as well as legendary characters and fabled events from the literary traditions of many nations, and from anonymous sources in folk tales, nursery rhymes and ghost stories.
Présentation de l'éditeur
Contains over 4,000 entries describing the origin and significance of mythological beings, legendary figures, and events from an extensive range of cultures and ages.
At the time of publication in 1870 of the original and seminal Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, on which this work is based, there was little interest in or knowledge of the texts, religions, and mythology of Eastern,and Far Eastern cultures, which were largely dismissed as "heathen" or "pagan". Even less were the tribal cultures of Oceania, Africa, and the American Indians accepted; they were then considered "savage" or "primitive".
It is particularly in these areas that substantial additions have been made to Brewer's text. Since his time, the world has shrunk, and we as humans have discovered the importance and significance of the worldwide range of mythologies and legends, and have a deeper understanding of their unity and diversity.
Gods and goddesses, rites and beliefs from religions and cults, fabulous beasts, spirits, and monsters are all explained, helping us understand why these symbols and traditions persist and illuminate even in modern cultures.
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