Great Theme - World Mythology

Author: None
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: Myth can be seen as a repository of human imagination. Mythical stories encompass the attitudes and perspectives of people from different regions around the world, from ancient times to the present. They cover a wide range of topics and are incredibly diverse, often praised for their linguistic artistry. Similarly astonishing is the fact that myths from distant regions can exhibit remarkable consistency. Ancient China under imperial rule and the cultures of the American plains were vastly different, as were the Arctic and Australian Aboriginals, yet they all shared a fascination with similar themes. People around the world explore the same questions: How was the world created? Where did we come from? Why are we here? People seek answers to these questions from myth creators, whose responses form the grand themes of mythical traditions. They tell stories about the origins of the sun, moon, stars, and all natural phenomena, even the birth of the universe itself. To explain the unpredictable phenomena on Earth, myth creators also imagined intangible place deities who would reward the devout and punish the disrespectful. The tales of heroes and superhuman figures who bravely and persistently inspire people with their spirit are what captivate the masses. Myth creators also grapple with the mysterious topic of death, transcending the limits of life and depicting the present and the future. In their attempts to explain the world and its movements, myths touch on themes that still affect us today. These stories draw from the dreams and subconscious thoughts of humans, resonating deeply and evoking unexpected responses across continents and cultures. The Great Themes - World Myths not only shows how different peoples have responded to the uncertainties of the world but also highlights the astonishing similarities in these responses. The story of the great flood, which nearly destroyed humanity, appears in legends across the world, and in matters of belief, people share many common ground: many cultures believe that improperly buried souls become restless ghosts, and those who enter the underworld or consume its food cannot return to the land of the living. In this book, readers will encounter many fascinating myths that showcase these commonalities. This cross-cultural book is part of the Myth and Humanity series. The other volumes in the series introduce local myths and their historical roots, presenting ancient peoples through the language of stories, ultimately forming a unique world history—the precious legacy of global imagination. Each book is accompanied by rich color illustrations, including sacred sites, totemic symbols, artistic paintings, and mythical figures. To select these ancient myths and related images for the readers, the editors of Time-Life Books have compiled ancient sources from around the world and collaborated closely with top experts to place myths in their historical context. Throughout the series, it reflects the crystallization of human thought, experience, and wisdom over millennia, celebrating and preserving humanity's finest essence and most beautiful dreams. You will find it irresistible, gaining joy, enlightenment, and inspiration from it. Moreover, these myths will help us redefine history and view the world with fresh eyes.