World Mythology: Reference Classics

The great myths of the world create meaning out of the fundamental events and experiences of human existence—birth, death, conflict, loss, reconciliation, the cycle of the seasons. They speak to us of life itself in voices still intelligible, yet compellingly strange.

World Mythology is the authoritative and wide-ranging collection of the most important mythological traditions, combining the impact of pure narrative with the background necessary for understanding. Superbly illustrated throughout, this is the most accessible guide yet produced to the limitless heritage of the world’s imagination.

Under the direction of the late Dr. Roby Willis, nineteen leading scholars have distilled the essence of each regional tradition. Each contributor navigates a clear path through the complexities of myth by focusing on the most significant figures and stories within a series of thematic essays. Selected mythical episodes—the downfall of gods and demons, stories of revenge and metamorphosis, tales of doomed love and travels to the Underworld—are told at length in special highlighted features.

A rich and enjoyable collection of myths in their context, World Mythology is an essential component of any home reference library.