Flying Snakes and Griffin Claws: And Other Classical Myths, Historical Oddities, and Scientific Curiosities

Adrienne Mayor is a renowned historian who explores the borders of history, science, archaeology, anthropology, and popular knowledge to find historical realities and scientific insights embedded in myth, legends, and folklore. Her book "Flying Snakes and Griffin Claws" is a treasury of fifty of her most amazing and amusing discoveries, exploring topics such as how mirages inspired legends of cities in the sky, the true identity of winged serpents in ancient Egypt, how ghost ships led to the discovery of the Gulf Stream, and the beauty secrets of ancient Amazons.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Adrienne Mayor, a renowned explorer of history, science, archaeology, anthropology, and popular knowledge, delves into the depths of myth, legend, and folklore to uncover hidden truths and scientific insights. With a passion for uncovering historical realities and scientific discoveries, Mayor has spent decades combing through ancient texts and obscure sources to uncover intriguing wonders, historical mysteries, amusing anecdotes, and hidden gems from ancient, medieval, and modern times.

In her book "Flying Snakes and Griffin Claws," Mayor presents fifty of her most amazing and amusing discoveries. The book explores a wide range of subjects, including how mirages inspired legends of cities in the sky, the true identity of winged serpents in ancient Egypt, how ghost ships led to the discovery of the Gulf Stream, and the beauty secrets of ancient Amazons. Other pieces examine Arthur Conan Doyle's sea serpent and Geronimo's dragon, Flaubert's obsession with ancient Carthage, ancient tattooing practices, and the strange relationship between wine goblets and women's breasts since the times of Helen of Troy and Marie Antoinette.

"Flying Snakes and Griffin Claws" showcases Mayor's trademark passion for demythologizing myths and uncovering the fascinating truths buried beneath them. The book is a wonder cabinet of delightful curiosities, providing readers with a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human history and culture. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a science buff, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this book is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Dimension: 203 x 133 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691217826