Introduction to Mythology

Synopsis

Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths introduces students to a wide range of myths from various critical perspectives. Featuring original texts from sources around the world, it includes readings from Greek and Roman classics (by Homer, Hesiod, Ovid, and other writers); Nordic mythology (by Snorri Sturluson); Hindu culture (The Ramayana); Chinese mythology (Nu Kwa); and from such ancient works as The Epic of Gilgamesh, the Bible, and, new to this edition, the Enuma Elish. Selections from Native-American sources and fairy tales and stories from Africa, Germany, and the United States are also included. In addition, the authors draw comparisons between classical myths and such contemporary cultural phenomena as Daniel Boone, The Wizard of Oz, and, new to this edition, Firefly and Harry Potter. They also incorporate readings by Carl Jung, Levi-Strauss, Victor Turner, and other theorists who consider mythic material from different analytical perspectives. Finally, works by Milton, Keats, Updike, and Joyce are presented as examples of modern literary texts with mythological roots. The selections are organized into seven topical sections: myths of creation and destruction; hero and trickster myths; ritual and myth; myths and dreams; folktale and myth; contemporary myths; and myths and literature.