Ancient religions and Mythologies Books
Union Square & Co. Tales of Norse Mythology
Book SynopsisA collection of mythological stories from the Vikings, including gods and goddesses such as Odin, Thor, Freya, and Loki.
£14.24
Faber & Faber Crow From the Life and Songs of the Crow Faber
Book SynopsisCrow was Ted Hughes''s fourth book of poems for adults and a pivotal moment in his writing career. In it, he found both a structure and a persona that gave his vision a new power and coherence. A deep engagement with history, mythology and the natural world combine to forge a work of impressive and unsettling force. ''English poetry has found a new hero and nobody will be able to read or write verse now without the black shape of Crow falling across the page.'' Peter Porter
£11.69
Flame Tree Publishing Japanese Myths & Legends: Tales of Heroes, Gods &
Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. Legends of the Sea, Bells, Mirrors and Tea, Japanese mythology is delightful and enigmatic, full of spirits, gods and legendary creatures. It draws on Buddhist and Shinto traditions to explain the nature of the world of the island of Japan, the mystical Mount Fuji and the heavenly status of the long line of emperors. The warrior class of the imperial court, and the natural spirits of the countryside represent parallel and interdependent aspects of Japanese society, explored through ancient legend and folklore. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.
£10.44
Crossed Crow Books Strix Craft
Book Synopsis
£17.99
Prakash Books Illustrated Tales from Indian Mythology
£16.19
Crossed Crow Books The Teens Book of Shadows
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Scholastic Angry Aztecs
Book SynopsisReaders can discover all the foul facts about the ANGRY AZTECS, fromwhy the Aztecs liked to eat scum and all about their horriblehabit of drinking wine with live toads in. With a bold, accessiblenew look and a heap of extra-horrible bits, these bestsellingtitles are sure to be a huge hit with yet another generation of TerryDeary fans.
£6.99
Crossed Crow Books Advanced Magic
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Scholastic Ella Jones vs The Sun Stealer
Book SynopsisElla Jones is the hero the world needs when the pagan god of light,Lugh, is released from his millennium-old-prison by a shadowyvillain and, out for revenge on humans, brings darkness down on theworld. Cue chaos as everyone panics at not being able to see -apart from Ella, who is blind and used to living her life in darknessevery day.
£7.59
Octopus Publishing Group The Little Book of World Mythology: A Pocket
Book SynopsisStep into a world of gods, heroes and monstersThroughout history, mythologies have been fundamental to societies and cultures across the world. They are the collected stories of a people - the fascinating folk tales and the epic legends that shape the history and the beliefs of whole civilizations.This pocket guide offers readers an engaging and accessible introduction to the major world mythologies, exploring their origins, foundational stories and key mythological figures.Learn how the Greeks won the ten-year Trojan war, how the Norse god Thor got his mighty hammer, and why the Aztecs made a daily human sacrifice to the sun god, Huitzilopochtli.If you're looking to enrich and expand on your understanding of world history, religion and culture, then this book is an ideal starting point to fill your mind with stories of wisdom and wonder.Discover the captivating stories behind the following mythologies: Aboriginal, Aztec, Celtic, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Hindu, Incan, Japanese, Maori, Mayan, Mesopotamian, Norse, Roman.
£6.99
Flame Tree Publishing Persian Myths & Legends: Tales of Heroes, Gods &
Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. From such texts as the Shah Nameh (the Persian Book of Kings), Masnavi-e Ma’navi, the Anvar-i Suhayli fables and works by the great poet Nizāmī, come ancient tales of a civilization that once stretched across the known world. Find here the wonderful stories of the magical bird the Simurgh, the Seven Labours of Rustem, the evil demon onager-giant Akwán Díw and the tragic romance of Laili and Majnun. Persian literature is amongst the most beautiful and inventive of all cultures, offering a joyful read of creation, love and conquest. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.
£10.44
Crossed Crow Books RavenS Call
Book Synopsis
£11.39
Rockridge Press Paganism for Beginners: The Complete Guide to
Book SynopsisBegin your journey of spiritual exploration with this modern guide to PaganismIntroduce yourself to the world of Paganism and its diverse magick with this reader-friendly guide. Paganism for Beginners features a comprehensive overview of common Pagan practices, traditions, and core beliefs like open-mindedness, self-reliance, and freedom of choice.Paganism for Beginners is inclusive, inspiring, and the perfect way for seekers to explore this time-honored, earth-centric form of spirituality. You?ll nourish your soul and unlock the magick of the universe with: Pagan basics?Delve into deities, follow along with the Pagan calendar, and learn essential knowledge of Pagan symbols, rituals, and tools on your journey of spiritual exploration. Pagan history?Paganism is one of the world?s oldest religious movements. You?ll read about the roots of Paganism and how it?s evolved to serve modern practitioners yearning to reconnect with themselves and find more wonder, depth, and meaning in the world. Pagan traditionss?There are many forms of Paganism and each is known as a tradition. You?ll learn the defining details and ritual practices of traditions like Celtic Polytheism, Druidry, Wicca, and more. Embrace your spiritual path and live a more magickal life with Paganism for Beginners.
£11.69
Little, Brown & Company Mythology
Book SynopsisThe world-renowned classic that has enthralled and delighted millions of readers with its timeless tales of gods and heroes.Edith Hamilton''s mythology succeeds like no other book in bringing to life for the modern reader the Greek, Roman and Norse myths that are the keystone of Western culture-the stories of gods and heroes that have inspired human creativity from antiquity to the present.We follow the drama of the Trojan War and the wanderings of Odysseus. We hear the tales of Jason and the Golden Fleece, Cupid and Psyche, and mighty King Midas. We discover the origins of the names of the constellations. And we recognize reference points for countless works for art, literature and culture inquiry--from Freud''s Oedipus complex to Wagner''s Ring Cycle of operas to Eugene O''Neill''s Mourning Becomes Electra.Both a reference text for scholars of all ages and a book to simply enjoy, Mythology is a classic not to be missed.
£9.49
Crossed Crow Books Aradia
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£17.09
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC OCR Classical Civilisation GCSE Route 1
Book SynopsisThis textbook is endorsed by OCR and supports the specification for GCSE Classical Civilisation (first teaching September 2017). It covers the Thematic Study Component 11 and all three Literature and Culture options (Components 2123):Thematic Study: Myth and Religion by Ben GreenleyLiterature and Culture 1: The Homeric World by Dan MenasheLiterature and Culture 2: Roman City Life by James RenshawLiterature and Culture 3: War and Warfare by James RenshawWhy does Greek and Roman mythology remain so popular today? Why is the hero Odysseus such an interesting character? What was it like to watch a gladiatorial fight? Why was the Roman army so successful? This book guides GCSE students to a greater understanding of such issues. The opening chapter examines the lives of women in Greece and Rome, and also focuses on women in myth and legend. The following three chapters invite readers to explore the culture of the Mycenaeans, city life in the Roman world, and ancieTrade ReviewComprehensive, clear and well signposted for GCSE students. We have been waiting a long time for something as good as this. * Stephen Ridley, Durham High School For Girls, UK *Table of ContentsIntroduction How to Use This Book Thematic Study: Myth and Religion Literature and Culture Option 1: The Homeric World Literature and Culture Option 2: Roman City Life Literature and Culture Option 3: War and Warfare Glossary Index
£23.74
Flame Tree Publishing Indian Myths & Legends: Tales of Heroes, Gods &
Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. India, one of the great, ancient civilizations, spawned a fascinating canon of myths and legends. With multiple gods, and a riot of colour and character, this fantastic new book, Indian Myths & Legends, explores the themes and landscapes that created the tales, and reveals the boundless energy that brought us the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, retelling the stories of Krishna, Buddha and Shiva, and some of the many different versions of creation. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.
£8.79
Batsford Ltd Treasury of Folklore: Stars and Skies
Book SynopsisFollowing on from the hugely popular Treasury of Folklore: Seas and Rivers and Woodlands and Forests comes Treasury of Folklore: Stars and Skies, an exploration of the mysteries of the stars, skies and heavens above. People have gazed up at the same stars for millennia, trading stories about them; conjuring gods and goddesses; mapping the constellations; and navigating the complex human world below. The tales, traditions and myths included here traverse countries and continents and have been chosen to highlight how humans are linked through time and place, with shared dreams, fears and ways of rationalising the unknown. Under 'Stars and Heavens' Willow delves into rosy fingered dawn and the hubris of Icarus, the Greek myths surrounding the constellations and the omen of meteors, the trials of the Hawaiian goddess Hina and the legend of the rabbit in the moon. In the section on 'Skies' we are introduced to winged Pegasus and the trials of the Firebird, the Witch of Westray and stories of storms, the mysteries of the Northern Lights and unexplained UFOs. Treasury of Folklore: Stars and Skies is a fascinating portal into a rich history of myths surrounding the sky, an aspect of the natural world that continues to fascinate and confound.
£13.49
Chicken House Ltd Oh What a Knight
Book SynopsisVesper and Aster need Excalibur to save the day. They must journeythrough the enchanted realm of Camelot, with King Arthur and hisloyal knights to help them on their quest. But will they returnin time to defeat the daemons vying to rule the world?
£7.59
Adams Media Corporation The Book of Japanese Folklore An Encyclopedia of
Book SynopsisDiscover everything you’ve ever wondered about the legendary spirits, creatures, and figures of Japanese folklore including how they have found their way into every corner of our pop culture from the creator of the podcast Uncanny Japan. Welcome to The Book of Japanese Folklore: a fascinating journey through Japan’s folklore through profiles of the legendary creatures and beings who continue to live on in pop culture today. From the sly kitsune to the orgrish oni and mischievous shape-shifting tanuki, learn all about the origins of these fantastical and mythical creatures. This gorgeous package is complete with stained edges and stunning four-color illustrations. With information on their cultural significance, a retelling of a popular tale tied to that particular yokai, and how it’s been spun into today’s popular culture, this handsome tome teaches you about the stories and histories of the beings that inspire
£16.14
Penguin Books Ltd The Celestial Hunter
Book Synopsis''A poetic, erudite exploration of history and myth'' Financial TimesAn unforgettable journey through centuries and across cultures to the pivotal moment in evolution - when humans did something that no species had yet tried - when we became the hunter and no longer the prey. Informed by Greek and Egyptian myth, the stories of poets, shamans and gods, Roberto Calasso''s expansive exploration of our relationship to animals and sacrifice, encourages us to reframe our understanding of our place in history, and in the world. ''Calasso has created a much discussed original genre for these books ... a dense pastiche of myth, biography, criticism, philosophy, history and minutiae ... woven together by Calasso''s unflagging vision'' The New YorkerTrade ReviewBeguiling, captivating, vital ... Informed by myth, this damning exploration of man's detachment from the animal world is ninth in a staggeringly learned series -- Stuart Jeffries * Guardian *The Celestial Hunter is an "initiation through the book", speculative but capable of changing how you see things -- Dominic Green * Spectator *A spellbinding modern magus . . . he writes like a poet, not a professor, in glinting, enigmatic nuggets of narrative. At a moment when atavistic kinds of peril, awe and terror seem close at hand, it feels no great stretch to share Calasso's core belief that "the gods always return" -- Boyd Tonkin * Financial Times *Calasso is especially good at describing the characters of myth and legend with a novelist's omniscient authority ... leaves you feeling not out of your depth, but smarter and better read -- A. E. Stallings * New York Times *
£12.34
Thames and Hudson Ltd Shamans
Book SynopsisA clear, concise and compelling analysis of the eclectic and beautiful visual and material culture of shamanism. Entering trance states, healing body and soul, invoking animals as spirit guides and journeying to incorporeal realms these skills have been central to shamanism over thousands of years and across much of the world, from the Evenki shamans of northern and central Asia to contemporary Neo-Shamans of the West. Join cultural and social anthropologist Max Carocci as he explores an eclectic array of shamanic artefacts and images, decoding the symbolism and explaining their extraordinary shamanic ritual practices. Marvel at the adornments of a Siberian shaman's coat; examine the prehistoric rock art that depicts mystical transformations of shamans into animals; and discover the psychotropic plants that open our minds to interdimensional journeys of healing and wisdom. Carocci makes the manifold meanings encoded in the forms, colours and purposes of shamanic images and objects clear, painting a vibrant and in-depth picture of shamanic cultures past and present.
£21.25
Crossed Crow Books A Travelers Guide to Making Magic
£16.14
Crossed Crow Books Roadmap by Moonlight
£27.20
Wooden Books The Little People: Fairies, Elves, Nixies,
Book SynopsisHave you ever seen a pixie? Really? How about a nixie? Where would you find a brownie? And who exactly is Puck? Hiding in the woods, meadows, lakes and caves of these green and pleasant lands are a multitude of little-studied folk who have evaded the course eyes and lenses of modern naturalists for years. Join Paul Johnson and Dan Goodfellow as they at last unveil the fair folk of these ancient lands, their secret ways, names and abodes. WOODEN BOOKS are small but packed with information. "Fascinating" FINANCIAL TIMES. "Beautiful" LONDON REVIEW OF BOOKS. "Rich and Artful" THE LANCET. "Genuinely mind-expanding" FORTEAN TIMES. "Excellent" NEW SCIENTIST. "Stunning" NEW YORK TIMES. Small books, big ideas.
£8.18
Thames & Hudson Ltd Mystery Cults in the Ancient World
Book SynopsisA landmark study of ancient Greek and Roman cults, from the nocturnal mysteries at Eleusis to the cults of Dionysus and Mithras. Mystery cults are one of the most intriguing areas of Greek and Roman religion. In the nocturnal mysteries at Eleusis, participants dramatically re-enacted the story of Demeter's loss and recovery of her daughter Persephone; in Bacchic cult, bands of women ran wild in the Greek countryside to honour Dionysus; in the mysteries of Mithras, men came to understand the nature of the universe and their place within it through frightening initiation ceremonies and astrological teachings. These cults were an important part of life in the ancient Mediterranean world, but their actual practices were shrouded in secrecy, and much of what they were about has remained unclear until now. This is the first book to describe and explain all the major mystery cults of the ancient world, cult by cult, reconstructing the rituals and exploring their origins. It makes plenTrade Review'A wonderful revelation. Piece by archaeological and textual piece, Bowden jigsaw-puzzles together the heady, high-octane, highly-charged world of mystery ritual in Greece and Rome' - Bettany Hughes'Bowden debunks an impressive number of myths about ancient mystery religions' - Mary Beard, Times Literary Supplement'Will be of immense value not just to those studying Greek and Roman civilizations but to students of early Christianity ... a most valuable survey' - Contemporary Review'As clear and well-informed an account as one could imagine. In a highly accessible way Hugh Bowden puts together the literary and material evidence. Well-paced and an attractive read' - Robin Osborne, Professor of Ancient History, University of CambridgeTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. The Eleusinian Mysteries 2. The Mysteries of the Kabeiroi and the Great Gods of Samothrace 3. Other Mystery Sanctuaries in the Greek World 4. The Mother of the Gods 5. Dionysus 6. Private Initiation 7. Words Written on Gold 8. Isis 9. Mithras 10. The End of the Mysteries 11. Encountering the Sacred Map of Mediterranean and Near East
£999.99
Flame Tree Publishing African Folk & Fairy Tales: Fables, Folklore &
Book SynopsisA Gorgeous Collector's Edition of folk and fairy tales from the continent of Africa, with stories from regions now marked as modern nations such as Libya, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda, who inherit the folk and mythic tales of ancient peoples. Here you'll find stories of ogres and tricksters, riddles and poems, and great heroes of history such as Liongo. This new collection is created for the modern reader. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.
£10.44
Dorling Kindersley Ltd World Religions
Book SynopsisJohn Bowker was Dean of Trinity College, Cambridge from 1984 to 1991 and is currently a Fellow of Gresham College, London and Honorary Canon of Canterbury Cathedral. He is also Adjunct Professor of Religion at North Carolina State University. Professor Bowker's many books include the DK titles God: A Brief History and The Complete Bible Handbook. He lives in Cambridge.
£16.99
Orion Publishing Co Venus and Aphrodite
Book Synopsis''Lively'' THE TIMES''Engrossing'' THE SPECTATOR''Stunning'' WOMAN & HOME''Marvellous'' BBC HISTORY MAGAZINEThrough ancient art, evocative myth, intriguing archaeological discoveries and philosophical explorations, Bettany Hughes takes us on a voyage of discovery to reveal the truth behind Venus, and why this immortal goddess is so much more than nudity, romance and sex. It is both the remarkable story of one of antiquity''s most potent forces, and the story of human desire - how it transforms who we are and how we behave.Trade ReviewErudition, with an erotic frisson ... In this lively, wide-ranging book, Hughes paints a portrait of a darker Venus, a violent, vengeful "shape-shifting" Venus, with salt in her hair and surf at her feet -- Laura Freeman * THE TIMES *An intriguing tale that tracks the gorgeous and omnipresent Venus of western civilisation back 6,000 years ... engrossing -- Charlotte Hobson * THE SPECTATOR *A marvellous biography of a goddess that delves beneath her passive modern image ... Hughes's account of Aphrodite's early evolution forms the most fascinating sections of this superb book -- Catherine Nixey * BBC HISTORY MAGAZINE *Explore the mythological Goddess of Love with this stunning book by historian and broadcaster Bettany Hughes. She looks at the origins, archaeological revelations and philosophical implications of the woman known to the Romans as Venus, and to the Greeks as Aphrodite * WOMAN & HOME *
£9.99
Dorling Kindersley Ltd The Mythology Book
Book SynopsisLearn about compelling worlds and characters depicted in myths and legends in The Mythology Book.Part of the fascinating Big Ideas series, this book tackles tricky topics and themes in a simple and easy to follow format. Learn about Mythology in this overview guide to the subject, brilliant for novices looking to find out more and experts wishing to refresh their knowledge alike! The Mythology Book brings a fresh and vibrant take on the topic through eye-catching graphics and diagrams to immerse yourself in. This captivating book will broaden your understanding of Mythology, with:- More than 80 classics retold and explained in mythology- Packed with facts, charts, timelines and graphs to help explain core concepts- A visual approach to big subjects with striking illustrations and graphics throughout- Easy to follow text makes topics accessible for people at any level of understandingThe Mythology Book allTrade ReviewLet's not beat around the bush - if you're into mythology, you're going to want this book. * All About History *
£16.99
Thames and Hudson Ltd The Maya Myths
Book SynopsisThe perfect introduction to the gods, heroes and ancestors of the great Maya civilization. The Maya civilization was highly complex, divided into politically fragmented noble houses, the Maya have produced a diverse and complicated mythology that can vary between groups and retellings. For example, there are three different myths about the origins of the sun and moon, in one creation myth animals and objects rise up to torment humanity; whilst in another, pots shatter and speak, unleashing demons upon the people. Elsewhere, heroes descend to the ballcourt of the underworld where trees grow fruit in the likeness of severed heads, the ancestors converse with animals and the Maize God is caught in a perpetual cycle of death and rebirth. But to the Maya these were more than fireside tales, these myths formed the foundation of their culture, weaving together their ancestral and primordial pasts into a cohesive and meaningful narrative. In The Maya Myths Mallory Matsumoto skilfully evokes the enduring vibrancy of Maya culture, from the peak of the Maya hieroglyphic tradition in the eighth century AD, through the invasions of the Spanish conquistadors up to the present day. The book draws from texts, images and Maya oral histories, reflecting a history of contact and change, rather than a sealed-off past. The Maya region has always been fragmented, leading to a unique cultural and linguistic diversity resulting in a varied and intriguing mixture of stories. Here are well-known texts like the Books of Chilam Balam and the Popol Vuh, Spanish texts, as well as lesser-known sources. This will highlight the richness and varied nature of Maya myths, offering readers a deeper understanding of the communities that produced these captivating stories.
£13.49
Octopus Publishing Group The Little Book of Paganism
Book SynopsisStep into the magical realm of paganism with this enchanting beginner''s guide to the religions of oldFrom druidry and shamanism to modern witchcraft and Wicca, paganism is steeped in history, legend and ancient tradition, and is now one of the fastest-growing religions. Whether it''s the celebration of nature and its divinity, of female empowerment through the veneration of the sacred feminine, or a way to commit to climate conservation and sustainability, paganism has drawn worshippers through the ages.As well as outlining the pagan spiritual identity, including its history and development, pagan beliefs, and how the religion is practised, this beautiful book also explores:- Pagan deities and their associated folklore- The pagan calendar, including the eight festivals in the wheel of the year, what they represent and how they are celebrated- The influence of modern paganism on popular culture- How you can incorporate paganism into your own personal spiritual practiceAnd much more!
£7.59
Flame Tree Publishing African Myths & Legends: Tales of Heroes, Gods &
Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. With its powerful tradition of storytelling, the myths of the continent of Africa have survived colonialism and slavery, bringing together a rich diversity of cultures from Ethiopia to Tanzania, from the Xhosa people to the Yoruba. This collection offers tales of the gods, creation stories, trickster adventures, animal fables and stories which amuse and teach from 'The Tortoise and the Elephant', from the Akamba of Kenya, to 'Why the Moon Waxes and Wanes', from Southern Nigeria, providing an insight into the boundless and vibrant world of African myth. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.
£10.44
Rockpool Publishing Avalon Magic
Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated deck is designed to empower, inspire and allow the heart of the seeker to be open to divine guidance. On your soul pilgrimage of discovery, give yourself time to reflect and contemplate each of these insightful messages for your spiritual growth and healing. Using some of the symbols from ancient Avalon wisdom, these mini cards are designed to empower, inspire, and allow the heart to be open to divine guidance. Give yourself the gift of time to reflect and contemplate on each of these messages for your spiritual growth, wellbeing and magic.
£11.01
Flame Tree Publishing Mesoamerica Ancient Origins: Stories Of People &
Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. Mesoamerican culture is rooted in the region of modern Mexico where some 3500 years ago ancient peoples called the Olmecs farmed and created beautiful art and pottery at roughly the same time as the Middle Kingdom Ancient Egyptians, the Babylonians and a little after the Indus Valley societies of India. After the Olmecs many different groups emerged, amongst them the sophisticated Maya 200 years after the beginning of the Common Era. In turn they would be superseded by the Toltecs, during the long period that the Vikings swept across the length of Europe in search of silver. Another precious metal, gold, was plentiful in the Americas, the control of which was mastered by the successors of the Toltecs, the Aztecs, also known as the Mexica, who grew to dominate the region from the 13th to the 15th Century. Soon they would lend their name to the a great new city, Mexico. Through a fascinating selection of historical texts on the region and a thoughtful new introduction summarising how we understand the region today, his book traces the development of the early peoples, the emergence of some of the key civilizations of the many rich and varied societies of Mesoamerica, ending tragically with arrival of the Spanish explorers hungry for land, and for Aztec gold. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction: authors, myths, tales and history without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new Introduction and a Glossary of Terms or lists of Ancient Leaders.
£10.44
British Library Publishing Return of the Ancients
Book SynopsisAn anthology exploring a popular trend of modern publishing, showing writers' enduring fascination with mythology and the way it has interwoven with the strange and uncanny.
£9.49
Vintage Publishing Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths
Book Synopsis'Charlotte Higgins's Red Thread is a masterwork' Ali SmithA thrillingly original, labyrinthine journey through myth, art, literature, history, archaeology and memoir. The tale of how the hero Theseus killed the Minotaur, finding his way out of the labyrinth using Ariadne's ball of red thread, is one of the most intriguing, suggestive and persistent of all myths, and the labyrinth - the beautiful, confounding and terrifying building created for the half-man, half-bull monster - is one of the foundational symbols of human ingenuity and artistry. Charlotte Higgins, author of the Baillie Gifford-shortlisted Under Another Sky, tracks the origins of the story of the labyrinth in the poems of Homer, Catullus, Virgil and Ovid, and with them builds an ingenious edifice of her own. Along the way, she traces the labyrinthine ideas of writers from Dante and Borges to George Eliot and Conan Doyle, and of artists from Titian and Velázquez to Picasso and Eva Hesse. Her intricately constructed narrative asks what it is to be lost, what it is to find one's way, and what it is to travel the confusing and circuitous path of a lived life. Red Thread is, above all, a winding and unpredictable route through the byways of the author's imagination - one that leads the reader on a strange and intriguing journey, full of unexpected connections and surprising pleasures.Trade ReviewCharlotte Higgins's Red Thread is a masterwork, an open-eyed analysis of the everyday mazery we face without even realising it, and an understanding of psychic and narrative architecture that's a pretty crucial piece of equipment for wherever and whenever we find ourselves lost. I read it on the balcony of a hotel in Rome... and it was as if the city itself opened playfully and thoughtfully around the reading experience in its amalgam of pasts and presents, histories and mysteries.Any bookshelf would be graced by the presence of [Red Thread]… [it] ask[s] readers to surrender to the unpredictable pleasures of getting lost… playful and gorgeously written. -- Robert Douglas-Fairhurst * Guardian *A serious, substantial, scholarly and yet also highly personal book about mazes… Red Thread is a book to admire as much as to enjoy. -- Ian Sansom * Spectator *[Charlotte Higgins] is no ordinary author. Her thrillingly original book – it really is like no other – is itself a sort of maze of facts and thoughts, ancient tales and modern phenomena… on every page there is a sparkling idea or a fascinating piece of information. It is also beautifully written… a beautifully produced volume, full of colour illustrations of sculptures and paintings and tantalising maps of mazes. -- Craig Brown * Mail on Sunday *In this beautifully produced and richly illustrated book… Charlotte Higgins takes us on a fascinating meander through the art and literature of the last 2,500 years… After reading this book you will see labyrinths everywhere. -- Michael O’Loughlin * Irish Times *
£10.44
Crossed Crow Books Magic for the Resistance
£17.09
Anness Publishing Illustrated Encyclopedia of Mythology of the
Book SynopsisA volume of unprecedented scale from one of the most respected academic and writer on comparative mythology, sumptuously illustrated throughout.
£24.00
Oxford University Press Constellation Myths
Book Synopsis''Athena seized the writhing serpent and hurled it into the sky, and fixed it to the very pole of the heavens.'' The constellations we recognize today were first mapped by the ancient Greeks, who arranged the stars into patterns for that purpose. In the third century BC Eratosthenes compiled a handbook of astral mythology in which the constellations were associated with figures from legend, and myths were provided to explain how each person, creature, or object came to be placed in the sky. Thus we can see Heracles killing the Dragon, and Perseus slaying the sea-monster to save Andromeda; Orion chases the seven maidens transformed by Zeus into the Pleiades, and Aries, the golden ram, is identified flying up to the heavens. This translation brings together the later summaries from Eratosthenes'' lost handbook with a guide to astronomy compiled by Hyginus, librarian to Augustus. Together with Aratus''s astronomical poem the Phaenomena, these texts provide a complete collection of Greek aTrade ReviewHighly recommended. * Anna Maria Polidori, Al Femminile *A useful, inexpensive, and comprehensive vade-mecum of the mythology that surrounds the constellations * Colin Leach, Classics for All *
£9.49
Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers Inc Mythology
Book SynopsisThis deluxe edition of the world''s most beloved, bestselling classic on Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology is stunningly illustrated with specially commissioned full-color plates and a beautiful gold-bordered pages. Since its original publication in 1942, Edith Hamilton''s Mythology has sold millions of copies throughout the world and established itself as a perennial bestseller. For nearly 80 years, readers have chosenMythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes above all other books to discover the enchanting world of Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology -- from Odysseus''s adventure-filled journey to Odin''s effort to postpone the final day of doom. This deluxe, hardcover edition is illustrated throughout with specially commissioned, original artwork and beautifully illustrated lineages, making it a true collector''s item.
£22.50
Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd. Wisdom from the Woods
£15.29
Amber Books Ltd The Tibetan Book of the Dead: Buddhist Teachings
Book SynopsisFirst revealed by a Tibetan monk in the 14th century, Bardo Thodol (“Great Liberation upon Hearing in the Intermediate State”) – known more commonly as The Tibetan Book of the Dead – describes the experience of human consciousness in the bardo, the interval between death and the next rebirth in the cycle of death and rebirth. The teachings are designed to help the dying regain clarity of awareness at the moment of death, and by doing so achieve enlightened liberation. Popular throughout the world since the 1960s and overwhelmingly the best-known Buddhist text in the West, this classic translation by Kazi Dawa Samdup is divided into 21 chapters, with sections on the chikhai bardo, or the clear light seen at the moment of death; chönyid bardo, or karmic apparitions; the wisdom of peaceful deities, Buddhas and Bodhisattvas; the 58 flame-enhaloed, wrathful, blood-drinking deities; the judgement of those who the dying has known in life through the “mirror of karma”; and the process of rebirth. The text also includes chapters on the signs of death and rituals to undertake for the dying. Presented in a high-quality Chinese-bound format with accompanying illustrations, The Tibetan Book of the Dead is an ideal resource of ancient wisdom for anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhist notions of death and the path to enlightenment.Table of ContentsBook IThe Chikhai Bardo and the Chönyid Bardo The Obeisances The Introduction The Transference of the Consciousness-Principle The Reading of this Thödol The Practical Application of this Thödol by the Officiant Part I The Bardo of the Moments of Death Instructions on the Symptoms of Death, or the First Stage of the Chikhai Bardo: The Primary Clear Light Seen at the Moment of Death Instructions Concerning the Second Stage of the Chikhai Bardo: The Secondary Clear Light Seen Immediately After Death Part II The Bardo of the Experiencing of Reality Introductory Instructions Concerning the Experiencing of Reality during the Third Stage of the Bardo, Called the Chönyid Bardo, when the Karmic Apparitions Appear The Dawning of the Peaceful Deities, from the First to the Seventh Day The First Day The Second Day The Third Day The Fourth Day The Fifth Day The Sixth Day The Seventh Day The Dawning of the Wrathful Deities, from the Eight to the Fourteenth Day Introduction The Eighth Day The Ninth Day The Tenth Day The Eleventh Day The Twelfth Day The Thirteenth Day The Fourteenth Day The Conclusion, Showing the Fundamental Importance of the Bardo Teachings Book II The Sidpa Bardo The Obeisances Introductory Verses Part I The After-Death World The Bardo Body: Its Birth and Its Supernormal Faculties Characteristics of Existence in the Intermediate State The Judgement The All-Determining Influence of Thought The Dawning of the Lights of the Six Lokas Part II The Process of Rebirth The Closing of the Door of the Womb Method of Preventing Entry into a Womb The First Method of Closing the Womb-Door The Second Method of Closing the Womb-Door The Third Method of Closing the Womb-Door The Fourth Method of Closing the Womb-Door The Fifth Method of Closing the Womb-Door The Choosing of the Womb-Door The Premonitory Visions of the Place of Rebirth The Protection Against the Tormenting Furies The Alternative Choosing: Supernormal Birth; or Womb-Birth Supernormal Birth by Transference to a Paradise Realm Womb-Birth: The Return to the Human World The General Conclusion The Appendix I. The Invocation of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas II. ‘The Path of Good Wishes for Saving from the Dangerous Narrow Passageway of the Bardo’ III. ‘The Root Verses of the Six Bardos’ IV. ‘The Path of Good Wishes which Protecteth from Fear in the Bardo’ V. The Colophon
£16.99
Inner Traditions Bear and Company The Sacred Herbs of Yule and Christmas: Remedies,
Book SynopsisAn around-the-world tour of ancient Christmas celebrations, Pagan Solstice customs, and magical seasonal plants. Whether viewed as a mid-winter observance of the Winter Solstice or a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, for millennia cultures have taken time out to honour the darkest days of the year with lights, foods, and festivities. In ancient Egypt, people decorated their homes with greenery at the festival of the re-birth of the God Horus. The ancient Romans decorated their homes with vines and ivy and shared gifts, especially candles, at the midwinter festival of Saturnalia. In Scandinavian and Germanic cultures, the Yule Log was burned in the hearth, fruit orchards were wassailed, and sheaves of wheat were displayed to carry luck into the New Year. In Celtic cultures, mummers and guisers went door to door and European mistletoe (Viscum album) was gathered by Druids as a medicinal and magical aid. Presenting an around-the-world tour of ancient Christmas celebrations, Pagan Solstice customs, and magical seasonal plants, Ellen Evert Hopman shares lore, recipes, rituals, and crafts you can make as a family activity to enliven your Yuletide observance. She explores the origins of the Christmas tree and Santa Claus, as well as female gift bringers, holiday Spirits, and Yuletide animals. She shows how to make a Yule Log and decorate your house with greenery and grain weavings. She explains how to perform Winter Solstice divinations and cook traditional foods and drinks such as Wassail and Elizabethan gingerbread cookies. And she looks in depth at the medicinal and magical properties of the many herbs, barks, and berries associated with the Christmas and Yuletide season such as Frankincense and Myrrh, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Hibiscus, Bayberry, and many more. Woven throughout with mystical seasonal lore, this guide offers practical and magical ways to celebrate and honour the darkest days of the year.Trade Review“This is so much more than an herbal book. Ellen has covered origins and meanings for this most wonderful time of year as well as including practical workings. Packed full with fascinating myth busters and a festive hamper brimming over with magical and medicinal herbs found and used at Yule. A comprehensive guide to working magic and connecting with the energy of the season. Highly recommended.” * Rachel Patterson, author of A Witch for Every Season *“Amid the swirl of seasonal tastes, smells, and colors, Ellen Evert Hopman sprinkles elves and international lore in abundance. This is a delightful culinary and medicinal reference with Pagan sensibilities. Hopman’s culinary recipes call for unusual herbs blended with humor and cautions in equal measure. My personal favorite is Fallen Oak Leaf Broth. What a treat!” * Lyrion ApTower, author of Musings & Miscellany *“Winter Solstice, Yule, the longest night, shortest day; it has for centuries been held by many as a central sacred point in time. Within it is the shared experience of coming together to share in the warmth of family and community, all yearning for the return of the light. Ellen’s book The Sacred Herbs of Yule and Christmas is stuffed full with bits of seasonal wisdom. It is a delightful gift to take with you into the dark and cold, to help warm the heart with stories and traditions, garnishing the anticipation and participation in the joy of the holiday.” * Laura Wildman, author of What’s Your Wicca IQ? *“A mystical journey through a magical time of year, delving into traditions of old and magical rituals and rites to enrich the wonders of the winter season. The Sacred Herbs of Yule and Christmas is a highly recommended book that adds an extra sprinkling of magic and a depth of meaning to any Yuletide celebration, gathering, or personal observance.” * Roxie J. Zwicker, author of Haunted Portsmouth and Maine Book of the Dead *“With beautiful illustrations and many recipes, The Sacred Herbs of Yule and Christmas is packed full of historical information about the origins of these traditions. It would be a fun project to work through this book, especially with children, being at the same time educational without the boredom or misery often associated with learning.” * Luke Eastwood, author of The Druid’s Primer and coauthor of Kerry Folk Tales *“This is a very interesting book, and Ellen Evert Hopman sure knows her stuff. I recommend The Sacred Herbs of Yule and Christmas to anyone interested in the Yuletide traditions. I have a number of her books and am looking to add this one to my collection.” * T. Sibley, Ph.D., traditional Norse practitioner and author of The Way of the Wise *“A well-developed, comprehensive, and logical presentation on the subject of herbs and seasonal celebrations for Yule and Christmas. The information is accessible for a beginner and insightful for the advanced practitioner. A well-illustrated book that can be used for both instructional and referential purposes.” * Amoric, Third-Degree Alexandrian High Priest with more than 30 years of activity in the craft commun *Table of ContentsForeword by Lucya Starza An Introduction to Yule and Herbal Magic A Primer on Herbal Preparation A Primer on Herb Magic PART ONE TRADITIONS, RITES, FOODS, AND DRINKS OF THE SEASON The Gift Bringers, Spirits, and Mystical Figures of Winter The Animals at Yule Rituals and Rites of Solstice, Yule, and Christmas A Rite for the Goddess at the Winter Solstice Christmas Traditions and Recipes from around the World Wassailing and Other Yuletide Libations PART TWO MAGICAL AND MEDICINAL HERBS OF WINTER Allspice Almond Apple Bayberry BirchBoxwood Cacao Cinnamon CloveCranberry Frankincense and MyrrhGinger Hawthorn Hibiscus Holly Hyssop Ivy JuniperLaurel Lemon Licorice MintMistletoeNutmeg Oak Orange Pine and Other ConifersPoinsettia Rosemary Star of Bethlehem Vanilla Notes Index of Recipes and ProjectsIndex of Plants by Common NameIndex of Plantsby Scientific Name General Index
£22.50
Thames & Hudson Ltd The Complete World of Greek Mythology Complete
Book SynopsisA retelling of Greek myths is combined here with a comprehensive account of the world in which the myths developed - their themes, their relevance to Greek religion and society, and their relationship to the landscape.Trade Review'A superb introduction' - The Scotsman
£23.80
Anness Publishing Encyclopedia of Mythology
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Oxford University Press Paganism A Very Short Introduction Very Short
Book Synopsis''Paganism'' is an evocative word that, even today, conjures up deep-seated emotions and prejudices. Until recently, it was primarily a derogatory term used by Christians to describe the non-Christian cultures confronted and vanquished by their Churches. For some it evokes images of sacrifice and barbaric behaviour, while for others it symbolises a peace-loving, nature-worshipping spiritual relationship with the earth. This Very Short Introduction explores the meaning of paganism - through a chronological overview of the attitudes towards its practices and beliefs - from the ancient world through to the present day. Owen Davies largely looks at paganism through the eyes of the Christian world, and how, over the centuries, notions and representations of its nature were shaped by religious conflict, power struggles, colonialism, and scholarship. Despite the expansion of Christianity and Islam, Pagan cultures continue to exist around the world, whilst in the West new formations of paganism constitute one of the fastest-growing religions. Focussing on paganism in Europe, but exploring the nature of paganism globally, Davies looks at how Europeans discovered new cultures through colonial expansion, missionary work, and anthropological study. Contemporary social paganism can be a liberating and social force, and the idea of a global Pagan theology is now on the religious map.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Defining Paganism ; 1. Ancient world ; 2. Paganism in retreat ; 3. Gods in the North ; 4. Pagans across the oceans ; 5. Embracing the pagan past ; 6. Return of the old gods ; Conclusion
£9.49
Inner Traditions Bear and Company Peacock Angel: The Esoteric Tradition of the
Book SynopsisAn examination of the beliefs and history of the secretive Yezidi sect• Explains how the Yezidis worship Melek Ta’us, the Peacock Angel, an enigmatic figure often identified as “the devil” or Satan, yet who has been redeemed by God to rule a world of beauty and spiritual realization • Examines Yezidi antinomian doctrines of opposition, their cosmogony, their magical lore and taboos, the role of angels, ritual, and symbology, and how the Yezidi faith relates to other occult traditions such as alchemy • Presents the first English translation of the poetry of Caliph Yazid ibn Muawiya, venerated by the Yezidis as Sultan Ezi The Yezidis are an ancient people who live in the mountainous regions on the borders of Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. This secretive culture worships Melek Ta’us, the Peacock Angel, an enigmatic figure often identified as “the devil” or Satan, hence the sect is known as devil-worshippers and has long been persecuted. Presenting a study of the interior, esoteric dimensions of Yezidism, Peter Lamborn Wilson examines the sect’s antinomian doctrines of opposition, its magical lore and taboos, and its relation to other occult traditions such as alchemy. He explains how the historical founder of this sect was a Sufi of Ummayad descent, Sheik Adi ibn Musafir, who settled in this remote region around 1111 AD and found a pre-Islamic sect already settled there. Sheik Adi was so influenced by the original sect that he departed from orthodox Islam, and by the 15th century the sect was known to worship the Peacock Angel, Melek Ta’us, with all its “Satanic” connotations. Revealing the spiritual flowering that occurs in an oral culture, the author examines Yezidi cosmogony, how they are descended from the androgynous Adam--before Eve was created--as well as the role of angels, ritual, alchemy, symbology, and color in Yezidi religion. He also presents the first English translation of the poetry of Caliph Yazid ibn Muawiya, venerated by the Yezidis as Sultan Ezi.Showing the Yezidi sect to be a syncretic faith of pre-Islamic, Zoroastrian, Christian, Pagan, Sufi, and other influences, Wilson reveals how these worshippers of the Peacock Angel do indeed worship “the Devil”--but the devil is not “evil.” God has redeemed him, and he rules a world of beauty and spiritual realization.Trade Review“If as some Yezidis maintain, we are all angels enjoying a temporary existence as men and women, we need no rulers, regulations, or exoteric religions. In Peacock Angel a lifelong defender of anarchism blends poetry, erudition, and spiritual insight to honor this misunderstood and persecuted group, perhaps our closest link with the primordial tradition itself.” * Joscelyn Godwin, author of Mystery Religions in the Ancient World *“Peacock Angel penetrates the esoteric secrets of Yezidi spirituality. The Yezidi, who believe they are followers of the oldest of religions, likely go back more than 10,000 years. Wilson explores Yezidism as a pure religion that rejects the law in order to be free to choose religious spontaneity, freedom, and passion: the way to be mad for God. Delving into their oral and shamanic roots, Wilson shows how the Yezidi ferociously practiced their love of the divine. This lovely book is a pearl of wisdom that reveals the Yezidi passion to know God in our soulless world. A must-read for spiritual seekers in our times.” * Barbara Hand Clow, author of Awakening the Planetary Mind and The Mind Chronicles *“Only the heterodox intellect of Peter Lamborn Wilson could expose the deeper truth behind today’s tragic headlines: that one of the world’s most brutally persecuted religious sects, the Yezidis--reduced by the thoughtless to be worshippers of a Satan that the thoughtless neither understand nor wish to understand-- may hold the key to the revitalization of didactic religion. As Wilson’s enthralling arcanum reveals, the question is less whether the Yezidis can survive but whether we can survive without them.” * Mitch Horowitz, PEN Award-winning author of Occult America, The Miracle Club, and Uncertain Places *Table of ContentsPreface: Who Are the Yezidis? Introduction1 Books 2 Cosmogony 3 The Delirium of Origins 4 Sheikh Adi and the Sufis 5 The Redemption of Satan 6 Angelology PeaAng.indd 7 Ritual 8 Symbolique 9 Color and Alchemy 10 Esoteric Antinomianism 11 Legend and Life of the Caliph Yazid ibn Mu'awiya 12 Poems of the Caliph Yazid Appendix: IndiaNotes BibliographyIndex
£17.09
