World of Myths: Volume 1 (Legendary Past Series)

Here retold in all their original dramatic power are some of the most exciting and influential of all world myths, drawn from a fascinating range of ancient cultures. Epic struggles and heroic adventures, passionate jealousies and psychological deceptions, comic mistakes and tragic destinies—these fabulous tales are all part of our common legendary past.

This book is a compilation edition of five titles from the successful series The Legendary Past. Each author describes the cultural background, written sources, and continuing legacy of the major myths, illustrated throughout by archaeological and artistic evidence. The included titles are:

• Egyptian Myths by George Hart, British Museum
• Greek Myths by Lucilla Burn, Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
• Roman Myths by Jane F. Gardner, University of Reading, U.K.
• Celtic Myths by Miranda Jane Green, University of Wales College of Cardiff
• Norse Myths by R. I. Page, University of Cambridge

Linking these supernatural worlds is a new introduction from the award-winning writer Marina Warner. In addition, there is a specially compiled glossary giving brief definitions of the mythical characters and creatures whose traditions have contributed to our own legendary past.