An Introduction to Mythology

Name: An Introduction to Mythology
Author: Lewis Spence

By Lewis Spence

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Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

An accessible outline of mythic science that defines myth, folklore, and legend, surveys methodological debates, and traces how scholars interpret the origins and transformations of gods. It reviews types and classes of myth, cosmologies about world and human origins, themes of paradise and punishment, and the interplay between ritual, folklore, and written sources. The author presents comparative tables and examples drawn from global traditions, summarizes recent scholarly theories about symbolic origins of deities and rituals, and offers an eclectic framework for interpreting myths while guiding readers through the progress and problems of the discipline.

About the Author

Lewis Spence

Lewis Spence was a Scottish author and historian, recognized for his extensive work on mythology and folklore. He contributed significantly to the understanding of various cultural myths through his writings. Among his notable works is "An Introduction to Mythology," which serves as a comprehensive guide to the myths of different civilizations. Spence's exploration of legends spans various regions, including Europe and the Americas, with titles such as "Myths and Legends of Ancient Egypt" and "The Popol Vuh: The Mythic and Heroic Sagas of the Kichés of Central America." His scholarship has enriched the literary heritage of mythological studies.