Mythology of the World, Illustrated Encyclopedia of: A comprehensive A-Z of the myths and legends of the ancient world

Arthur Cotterell brings together a team of authors to depict the world's most significant mythological figures and stories, illustrated with 1500 photographs and works of art. This comprehensive guide to the myths and legends of the world is accessible and timeless in its universal appeal.

Format: Hardback
Length: 816 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2023
Publisher: Anness Publishing

From the ancient Greeks to the Aztecs, and from the indigenous peoples of Oceania to native North Americans, people across the world have created a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and beliefs to explain the mysteries of creation and the forces of nature and death. In this important volume, the mythologies of the ancient worlds are brought vividly to life. Here, one of the foremost experts on world mythology, Arthur Cotterell, brings together a team of authors to depict the world's most significant mythological figures and most enthralling stories. Special illustrated features focus on unifying mythological themes such as Creation and the Universe, Ordering the World, Death and Sacrifice, and Oracles and Prophecies. Illustrated with more than 1500 photographs and works of art, this comprehensive guide to the myths and legends of the world is both accessible and timeless in its universal appeal.

The ancient Greeks, with their rich mythology and philosophical ideas, laid the foundation for much of Western civilization. The Greeks believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses, each with their own powers and responsibilities. Zeus, the king of the gods, was responsible for thunder and lightning, while Athena, the goddess of wisdom, was associated with the arts and crafts. Apollo, the god of music and poetry, was known for his lyre and his ability to inspire creativity.

The Aztecs, on the other hand, had a complex pantheon of gods and goddesses, many of whom were associated with specific aspects of nature and human life. The sun god, Huitzilopochtli, was responsible for the creation of the world and the renewal of life. The rain god, Tlaloc, was associated with water and agriculture. The goddess of love and beauty, Quetzalcoatl, was known for her feathered serpents and her ability to weave the world together.

The indigenous peoples of Oceania, such as the Maori in New Zealand and the Aboriginal people in Australia, had their own unique mythologies and beliefs. The Maori believed in a god of thunder, Rangi, who was responsible for the creation of the earth and the sky. The Aboriginal people, on the other hand, believed in a creator god, Gawain, who was responsible for the creation of the world and the animals.

Native North Americans, such as the Cherokee and the Iroquois, also had rich mythologies and beliefs. The Cherokee believed in a great spirit, called the Great Spirit, who was responsible for the creation of the world and the humans. The Iroquois, on the other hand, believed in a pantheon of gods and goddesses, many of whom were associated with specific aspects of nature and human life.

One of the most significant aspects of these mythologies is the way in which they explain the mysteries of creation and the forces of nature and death. The Greeks, for example, believed that the universe was created by the god Zeus, who threw a lightning bolt into the void. The Aztecs, on the other hand, believed that the world was created by the god Huitzilopochtli, who emerged from a cave and created the sun, moon, and stars.

These mythologies also provide insight into the values and beliefs of the people who created them. The Greeks, for example, believed in the importance of honor and virtue, while the Aztecs believed in the importance of sacrifice and the honor of the community. The indigenous peoples of Oceania, such as the Maori and the Aboriginal people, believed in the importance of balance and harmony with the natural world.

These mythologies continue to be important today, as they provide a window into the past and a way for people to connect with their cultural heritage. They also provide insight into the human condition and the challenges that we face as a species. By studying these mythologies, we can learn from the mistakes of the past and build a better future for ourselves and for future generations.

In conclusion, the mythologies of the ancient worlds have played a significant role in shaping the world we live in today. From the ancient Greeks to the Aztecs, and from the indigenous peoples of Oceania to native North Americans, people across the world have created a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and beliefs to explain the mysteries of creation and the forces of nature and death. These mythologies continue to be important today, as they provide a window into the past and a way for people to connect with their cultural heritage. By studying these mythologies, we can learn from the mistakes of the past and build a better future for ourselves and for future generations.

Weight: 3174g
Dimension: 226 x 291 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780754835431