Serpent, Siren, Maelstrom & Myth: Sea Stories and Folktales from Around the World

The sea is a beautiful and alluring force, but it is also dangerous and deadly. Gerry Smyth has gathered myths and folktales from cultures around the world to reflect and explore this, divided into seven sections: Origin Stories, Gods and Humans, Voyages, Lost Places, Imagined Spaces, Weather and Nature, Down to the Sea in Ships, Fabulous Beasts, and embellished with illustrations from the Library.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: British Library Publishing

The sea, a captivating and mesmerizing entity, possesses a dual nature that is both beautiful and perilous. It is an enigmatic and untamable force, shrouded in mystery and danger. Throughout human history, storytelling has served as a vital tool for our ancestors to comprehend and engage with the natural world. These narratives gradually evolved into the intricate mythological systems that populate our world today.

In every mythological system across time, the ocean holds a prominent place. To delve into and explore this profound relationship, Gerry Smyth has assembled a collection of myths and folktales from diverse cultures worldwide. These stories, like precious heirlooms passed down through generations, have been carefully curated by Smyth, accompanied by his unique narrative interpretation and insightful discussions on their profound meanings.

The book is organized into seven captivating sections: Origin Stories, Gods and Humans, Voyages, Lost Places, Imagined Spaces, Weather and Nature, Down to the Sea in Ships, Fabulous Beasts, and adorned with illustrations sourced from the vast collections of the Library. Each section unveils a tapestry of tales that transport readers to different realms, immersing them in the rich tapestry of human imagination and the awe-inspiring wonders of the ocean.

As you embark on this literary journey, prepare to be transported to ancient lands, witness the clash of gods and mortals, embark on perilous voyages, explore forgotten realms, and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing dance of weather and nature. From the majestic ships that sailed the seas to the mythical creatures that lurk beneath the waves, this book offers a treasure trove of stories that will captivate your senses and ignite your imagination.

So, immerse yourself in the captivating world of myths and folktales, where the sea reigns supreme and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. Let Gerry Smyth's storytelling guide you on a journey of discovery, as you explore the depths of the ocean and uncover the secrets of its ancient lore.

Weight: 858g
Dimension: 168 x 243 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780712354196