National Geographic Essential Visual History of World Mythology

Flix Guirand; Robert Graves; Richard Aldington; Delano Ames

Here, in all their wonder and splendor, are the Mythologies of Mankind.. from pre-biblical Egypt and pre-Homeric Greece to the farthest researches of Africa, the Orient, the Pacific and the Americas.. all gathered into one mammoth volume of unprecedented scope and beauty, and illustrated with an incomparable scope and beauty, and illustrated with an incomparable assemblage of authentic paintings, sculpture, symbols, idols, ritual and sacrificial objects, many rarely seen by modern Western eyes.This monumental work is the first complete encyclopedia of world mythology. Originally published in France by the famous house of Larousse, it contains of course all the well-loved myths of Classical Antiquity. But more than half the book is devoted to the strange and unfamiliar mythologies of civilizations...from Peru to Persia, from Tahiti to Togoland.Nearly 600 Illustrations. Lire plus…

Patrick Karl O'brien; George Philip & Son; Cosmographics (Firm); Philip's Map Studio

This atlas presents the story of civilization in physical setting. Specially designed to help the reader visualize great historical themes and decisive moments. It combines 400 specially drawn maps depicting the scope of these events. The atlas features 135 double-page spreads, each of which potrays key develppments in a world region over a specific period of time. Each spread features maps together with complementary text discussing and explaining the historical, political, geographical, social, cultural and relgious themes behind each topic. Lire plus…

Haase, Donald (Editor)

Interest in folklore and fairy tales continues to grow, as evidenced by the number of new translations and anthologies being published every year. This scholarly compendium is a well-organized, well-documented introduction to the evolving field of folklore and fairy-tale studies. More than130 individuals representing various areas of expertise have contributed 670 entries that offer insights into assorted aspects of this complex genre. Signed articles are arranged in alphabetical order and run from a couple of paragraphs to several pages. The scope is multicultural and spans antiquity through modern day (including 2007 references). In the preface, editor Haase acknowledges the enormous number of possible subjects and identifies five priority inclusion criteria: representative global coverage, fundamental and essential importance, major developments in folk and fairy-tale scholarship since 1970, emerging trends in the production and reception of fairy tales, and critical but often neglected dimensions of this field. The helpful “Guide to Related Topics” sorts articles and provides some idea of the breadth and extent of coverage. Entries cover cultural, national, regional, and linguistic groups (African American tales,Japanese tales); more than 60 genres (Animal tale, Pantomime,Urban legend); critical terms, concepts, and approaches (Authenticity,Variant); motifs, themes, characters, and tale types (Dragon, Punishment and reward,Sleeping Beauty); media, performance, and... Lire plus…

Peter N Stearns; William L Langer

Printed from a WEBSITE For decades William L. Langer's best-selling ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WORLD HISTORY was the indispensable, authoritative guide to all of human history. Now, under the direction of a distinguished new editor, comes an updated and dramatically improved version for a new generation, the only encyclopedia of its kind with a bound-in, searchable compact disc of the complete text. The result is a wholly accessible, absorbing canvas of world history that no student, scholar, or amateur historian should be without. Renowned historian Peter N. Stearns and thirty prominent historians have combined their expertise over the past ten years to perfect this comprehensive chronology of more than 20,000 entries that span the millennia from prehistoric times to the year 2000. With a unique format that has won it generations of fans, the ENCYCLOPEDIA continues to feature chronological entries grouped by geographic region, allowing readers to get an in-depth view of distinct events along with a virtual time line of human history. But this new edition is much more than an expansion of a classic; it reflects important recent changes in historical trends and historical thinking. In addition to showcasing traditional facts of national leadership and state power, the Encyclopedia embraces social and cultural developments, non-European history, women's history, religion, health, economics, technology, and other vital but less often reported aspects of the human drama. Here is a... Lire plus…

Dawn E. Bastian, Judy Mitchell

This revealing work introduces readers to the mythologies of Native Americans from the United States to the Arctic Circle-a rich, complex, and diverse body of lore, which remains less widely known than mythologies of other peoples and places. In thematic chapters and encyclopedia-style entries, Handbook of Native American Mythology examines the characters and deities, rituals, sacred locations and objects, concepts, and stories that define mythological cultures of various indigenous peoples. By tracing the traditions as far back as possible and following their evolution from generation to generation, Handbook of Native American Mythology offers a unique perspective on Native American history, culture, and values. It also shows how central these traditions are to contemporary Native American life, including the continuing struggle for land rights, economic parity, and repatriation of cultural property. With more than 40 photographs, illustrations, and maps, here is the most comprehensive and accessible introduction to the mythological heritage of Native North Americans available in one volume. Lire plus…

Roman, Assistant Professor Of Classics Luke, Roman, Monica

and the interactions of men, gods, heroes, and monsters. Ultimately, the Romans come to integrate their own legendary history with the myths of the Greek city-states. Bridging figures, such as Aeneas, Heracles, Diomedes, Hippolytus, Evander, and Orestes, who, in some myths, travel from the Greek or Trojan world to Italy, and in some cases found cities, are particularly salient examples of such integration. The resultant fusion is called "classical mythology" by modern textbooks. Acis (Akis) See Galatea; Polyphemus. ## Acontius and Cydippe A young man from Chios. Classical sources are Callimachus's Aetia (3.1.26) and Ovid's Heroides (20, 21). Acontius fell in love with Cydippe and followed her to the temple of Artemis. He wrote on an apple the words "I swear by Artemis that I will marry ## Acontius and Cydippe Acontius." Cydippe picked up the apple and read the inscription aloud, inadvertently swearing an oath by Artemis to marry Acontius. Cydippe's parents, however, arranged for her to be engaged to another man, and she became ill as the time for the marriage neared. Cydippe's father discovered from the Delphic oracle that Cydippe's illness was caused by the potential betrayal of the oath she had sworn to Artemis. Acontius was then accepted as a husband for Cydippe. ## Actaeon A Boeotian hunter. Son of Aristaeus and Autonoe. Grandson of Cadmus. Classical sources are Apollodorus's Library (3.4.4), Diodorus Siculus's Library of History (4.81.4), Hyginus's Fabulae (180,... Lire plus…

George Mason Williams

A guide to Hinduism through the ages, offering readers an accessible way of exploring its complex deities, mythological characters, and ideas.Handbook of Hindu Mythology offers a number of pathways by which to approach Hinduism's ever-changing gods and goddesses (e.g., Brahmâ, Vishnu, Siva), spiritual verses (such as the vedas), secular epics (including the Râmâyana and the Mahâbhârata), myths within myths, devotional and esoteric traditions, psychic and yogic disciplines, and magical practices.With this handbook, readers can explore the history of Hindu mythology, follow a detailed timeline of key episodes and historical events, and look up specific elements of historical or contemporary Hinduism in a beautifully illustrated dictionary section. It is the ideal introduction to the origins of Hinduism, the culture that shaped it from antiquity to the present, and the age-old stories, ideas, and traditions that speak to the human condition as eloquently today as ever. Lire plus…

Lihui Yang And Deming An, With Jessica Anderson Turner

An informative work of historical and contemporary Chinese myths, including a useful collection of historical documents, detailing myths as they live and change in China today.Compiled from ancient and scattered texts and based on revelatory new research, Handbook of Chinese Mythology is the most comprehensive English-language work on the subject ever written from an exclusively Chinese perspective.This work focuses on the Han Chinese people but ranges across the full ethnic spectrum of ancient and modern China, showing how key myths endured and evolved over time. A quick reference section covers all major deities, spirits, and demigods, as well as important places (Kunlun Mountain), mythical animals and plants (the crow with three feet; Fusang tree), and appurtenances (Xirang—a kind of mythical soil; Bu Si Yao—mythical medicine for long life). No other work captures so well what Chinese mythology means to the people who lived and continue to live their lives by it. Lire plus…

Philip Wilkinson, Neil Philip, Philip Wilkinson

Originally told to explain the mysteries of the world—such as creation, divine will, fertility, death, and love—myths are a major part of many cultures throughout the world, and each area has its own myths. Organized by geographic region, each myth is placed within the civilization's history and context. The key elements of world mythology, such as the hero, his divine connection, the labyrinth, the initiation, and the transformation,are explored in boxes and features throughout the book.Philip Wilkinson has more than 50 titles to his credit in the fields of mythology, history, and the arts, including DK's Illustrated Dictionaries of Mythology and Religions. Neil Philip is the author of many books on folklore and mythology, including The Illustrated Book of Myths and Myths and Legends Explained. Synopses of the great myths that have inspired human creativity from antiquity to the present Covers mythology around the globe, from the classic Greek to lesser known Malaysian Catalogs of gods by subject enable comparisons of distant civilizations Lire plus…

Kathryn Thornton; National Geographic Society (U.s.)

A multifaceted reference book for the 21st century, the Answer Book will fascinate with up-to-date, authoritative, and endlessly interesting information about the world today. From earth sciences to astronomy, from climate and habitats to human arts and cultures, from ancient history to cutting-edge technology, and including brief descriptions, flags, and statistics of all the countries of the world, it delivers exactly the kind of quick-dip information that modern readers crave. Maps, charts, diagrams, graphs, photographs, illustrations—some 600 pictures in all—combine with hundreds of fast facts and short pieces on the people, places, wildlife, weather, history, and current events that matter in our world today. National Geographic Answer Book is a vital reference for school, a handy resource at the office, and a fabulous pick-up-and browse companion at home. Lire plus…

Michael S. Sweeney; Foreword By Richard Restak

Did you know that listening to music tunes up your brain? Or that certain foods can help maintain mental fitness? Or that exercise can keep both body and mind in good shape? Delving into the science behind these strategies, Brain goes even deeper to reveal the brain’s inner workings. Overseen by distinguished neuropsychiatrist Dr. Richard Restak, Brain is both a practical owner’s manual and a complete guide to the brain’s development and function. Its pages explore not only the brain’s physical form—its 100 billion nerve cells and near-infinite network of synapses—but also its interactions that regulate every thought and action. Brain features the latest discoveries about improving and optimizing mental acuity right alongside sidebars on breakthrough moments in neuroscience. Explained here also are the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of the brain, addressed in accessible, engaging language. Combining the latest advances in our understanding of the mind-body connection and ongoing research into such diseases as dementia, depression, and PTSD, Brain is an indispensable guide to mens sana in corpore sano —at every stage of life. Lire plus…

Braun, David (Editor)

When a farmer in Spain captured a two-headed snake in 2002, scientists wanted to study it. When National Geographic Daily News published a story about the discovery, people wanted to read all about it. More than a million people clicked on the site and kept coming back for more unbelievably true stories. An Internet sensation was born. Since then, more than 100 million individuals have clicked on stories put together by David Braun and his crack team of editors for National Geographic Daily News. And readers cannot get enough information about the often weird, sometimes miraculous things being discovered by scientists every day--incredible flying sharks, the strange sex lives of ducks, mind-controlling fungus that turns ants into zombies, and the darkest planet in the universe. This reader features the most wildly popular, incredibly weird, and totally true stories from National Geographic's Daily News site presented in a compact, fact-filled reader. It will be a must-have for fans of Braun's website and for fans of "fun fact" books like the Uncle John's Bathroom Reader series. The millions of fans who follow David Braun's National Geographic Daily News will be thrilled with this incredible reader filled with their favorites from the website. The most popular ones are all here presented in a lively, engaging format that is entertaining for the mind and easy on the wallet. Lire plus…

Scott S. Stuckey

Практическое руководство по фотографии во время путешествий. This superb practical guide to travel photography combines the best of all worlds: convenient size, comprehensive coverage, and useful, straightforward advice from the experts of National Geographic Traveler, the highest circulation magazine in its field. It’s the perfect «how-to» for anyone seeking to master the veteran photographer’s trademark skills: a strong sense of place a swift, decisive eye and a sure instinct for the dramatic scene. Be it a weekend escape or far-flung adventure, every occasion promises the chance for a great photograph. Whether you’re after that once-in-a-lifetime shot or just want a vivid travelogue to share with friends, The Ultimate Field Guide to Travel Photography will help you achieve your goals. It explores such key genres of photography as panoramas, portraits, and creating a narrative in photographs. Always, the focus is on engaging your subject and working—often quickly—to get the best shots. Chapters cover everything from inspiration and research to the practicalities of purchasing the right equipment. Practical information including checklists, essential contents of a camera bag, and other helpful resources are listed in the back. Designed especially for active travelers, the book fits easily in a backpack or pocket for handy access. Lire plus…

Adam Hart-Davis (Editor)

This is the definitive, 4.4 million year-old story of human history - from the origins of mankind to the 21st century, spanning the globe and based on the latest research, the complete story of the people, events, themes, ideas and forces that have shaped human existence. Find out about our history's turning points: eye witness accounts and biographies give a personal angle to major events. Explore humankind's legacy from architecture and artefacts to the big ideas that have changed our world. Examine the effect we've had on nature and vice versa. And discover how the past has been unlocked: from interpreting ancient documents to analysing ice cores. This book is a compelling look at human existence: perfect for the family bookshelf. Lire plus…

National Geographic Society (U.s.)

Captivating critters, eye-grabbing pictures, weird and freaky facts—what better way for kids to learn geography! In this child-friendly atlas, stunning animal photos combine with colorful, easily accessible maps to teach young readers about geography through the wild creatures that fascinate them. Each world region includes a "spotlight" on animals in the area. Thematic spreads deliver the facts about habitats, endangered species, and more. Careful research and all-around kid appeal make this a must-have children’s atlas for home and school. Lire plus…

Freeman, Philip

Tales of Gods, Goddesses, and HeroesMost people have heard of the Celts—the elusive, ancient tribal people who resided in present-day England, Ireland, Scotland and France. Paradoxically characterized as both barbaric and innocent, the Celts appeal to the modern world as a symbol of a bygone era, a world destroyed by the ambition of empire and the spread of christianity throughout Western Europe. Despite the pervasive cultural and literary influence of the Celts, shockingly little is known of their way of life and beliefs, because very few records of their stories exist. In this book, for the first time, Philip Freeman brings together the best stories of Celtic mythology.Everyone today knows about the gods and heroes of the ancient Greeks, such as Zeus, Hera, and Hercules, but how many people have heard of the Gaulish god Lugus or the magical Welsh queen Rhiannon or the great Irish warrior Cú Chulainn? We still thrill to the story of the Trojan War, but the epic battles of the Irish Táin Bó Cuailgne are known only to a few. And yet those who have read the stories of Celtic myth and legend-among them writers like J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis-have been deeply moved and influenced by these amazing tales, for there is nothing in the world quite like them. In these stories, a mysterious and invisible realm of gods and spirits exists alongside and sometimes crosses over into our own human world; fierce women warriors battle with kings and heroes, and even the rules of time... Lire plus…

Weaver, Stephan

Gods, Pharaohs and Book of the Dead From at least 4000 BCE to the death of Cleopatra VII in 30 CE, Egyptian Mythology was the foundation of ancient Egyptian culture. Spanning over large dominions as distant as the Roman Empire and the Greco-Roman realm, Egyptian mythology was a prevailing entity. Goddesses like Isis were worshiped not only by the natives of Egypt but also those of England and Afghanistan. Inside you will learn about... - Gods and Goddesses - Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt - Book of the Dead - Rituals and Sacrifices - Ten Little Known Facts about Egyptian Mythology This book tackles each spellbinding facet of the mythology, discussing the Gods and goddesses, the Pharaohs-including Tutankhamen and the last Ptolemaic ruler Cleopatra VII- the mysterious "Book of the Dead" and the rituals and sacrifices made to the gods. You will marvel at the fascinating things you learn about the Egyptian Mythology: mummification, the theory ancient Egyptians had about the cosmos and the creations. This eBook will serve as a great insight into one of history's most fascinating relics. Lire plus…

Smithsonian Institution; Dk Publishing, Inc

From the Wright brothers' first flight and the First Russian Revolution to the horrors of war, to the development of motor and air travel and the birth of the digital revolution, the changes seen in the twentieth century were global in scope and monumental in terms of impact. __Modern History in Pictures: A Visual Guide to the Events that Shaped Our World__ explores these earth-shattering events as never before, offering unique insight into the century that has so keenly shaped our own modern world. Covering significant happenings from around the globe, decade by decade, in a unique storyboard style, contemporary photographs display the unfolding story, capturing the dramatic turning points that have led us to where we are today. Lire plus…