Legends & Myths of India, Egypt, China & Japan

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An authoritative A to Z guide to the mythologies,legends and religions of the East, from ancient Egypt to Japan Over 500 alphabetical entries describe the central mythical figures of each culture and their importance to the ancient civilizations and religions of the day Superb pictorial spreads illustrate the themes and symbols at the heart of each culture, from the Pyramids and Ziggurats of Egypt and Babylon, to the Sacred Rivers of India, to the Seven Gods of Fortune of Japan Exquisitely illustrated with over 500 colour images, depicting the central features of Eastern, Western, Southern and Central Asian mythology and looking at the contemporary relevance of these vivid and enthralling legends Lively and informed narrative written by an expert on Asian mythology and comparative religions A unique and fascinating reference to the exciting tales and legends of the East In this magnificent new reference book, the powerful and evocative mythologies and religions of the East are revealed in all their glory. This important publication is essential reading for all those interested in the fabulous stories of Asian cultures. An instantly accessible A to Z structure, fully cross-referenced throughout, details the pantheon of gods of the East. Over 500 colour pictures of sacred people and holy places, drawn from original sources, accompany the text. Pictorial features detail important mythological themes: Yin and Yang, the avatars of Vishnu, demons and black magic, and the incarnations of the mother goddess. From the flood myths of the western lands and the Egyptian temples, to the sacred rivers of Central Asia and the dragon festivals of eastern lands, The Encyclopedia of Eastern Mythology splendidly recreates the rise of many cultures. Travel through exotic realms of high adventure, thrill at the exploits of warrior-gods, and become immersed in legend and folklore that bring to life ancient stories that influence society in much of Asia today. The Myths of Egypt and West Asia: Learn about the exciting and turbulent myths and legends of West Asia. From ancient Egypt, Persia, Asia Minor, Sumer and Babylon come haunting and dramatic stories of the gods who determined the economic, cultural and political life of the region. The Myths of South and Central Asia: Out of India, Tibet and Sri Lanka come tales of gods, spirits and demons. From the snowy mountains of the Himalayas to the scorching heat of southern India, this unpredictable land has given birth to a rich mythology. Included are legends of gods who have shaped eastern religion and western philosophy: playful Krishna, Shiva the destroyer, elephant-headed Ganesha and many-armed Kali. The Myths of East Asia: Dragon festivals, dragon gods and ancestor worship are all included in this enthralling account of lands founded upon the religions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. China and Japan have their own interpretations and legends regarding these religions. ChinaÆs Sacred Mountains, worshipped as deities from ancient times, evoke a unique spirit of place. This book is an exhaustive and fascinating guide to the mythology of the gods and goddesses, heroes, sacred animals and places of the East. Bringing together the legends of many incredibly diverse cultures, in a highly readable and accessible style, it is the classic reference on the subject.