Description

Book Synopsis

Myth pervades heavy metal. With visual elements drawn from medieval and horror cinema, the genre''s themes of chaos, dissidence and alienation transmit an image of Promethean rebellion against the conventional. In dialogue with the modern world, heavy metal draws imaginatively on myth and folklore to construct an aesthetic and worldview embraced by a vast global audience. The author explores the music of Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica and many others from a mythological and literary perspective.



Trade Review
"It’s a fine idea to explore the influences on the themes of heavy metal and Robert McParland does this with great aplomb. It’s nice to read such well-written work. [...] An important book because it treats heavy metal as the very legitimate culture it is." - Hellbound

Myth and Magic in Heavy Metal Music

    Product form

    £14.24

    Includes FREE delivery

    RRP £14.99 – you save £0.75 (5%)

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Tue 23 Jun 2026.

    A Paperback by Robert McParland

    Out of stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of Myth and Magic in Heavy Metal Music by Robert McParland

      Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc
      Publication Date: 1/12/2018 12:06:00 AM
      ISBN13: 9781476673356, 978-1476673356
      ISBN10: 1476673357

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      Myth pervades heavy metal. With visual elements drawn from medieval and horror cinema, the genre''s themes of chaos, dissidence and alienation transmit an image of Promethean rebellion against the conventional. In dialogue with the modern world, heavy metal draws imaginatively on myth and folklore to construct an aesthetic and worldview embraced by a vast global audience. The author explores the music of Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica and many others from a mythological and literary perspective.



      Trade Review
      "It’s a fine idea to explore the influences on the themes of heavy metal and Robert McParland does this with great aplomb. It’s nice to read such well-written work. [...] An important book because it treats heavy metal as the very legitimate culture it is." - Hellbound

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account