Since the beginning of humankind, the comings and goings of gods and goddesses have had a gripping hold on mere mortals. This engrossing resource explores the many gods, goddesses, and mythological figures that have fascinated, pervaded, and inspired human culture from prehistoric times through today.

FEATURES OF THIS RESOURCE

• Over 300 articles
• Over 400 full-color illustrations
• Photographs, diagrams, and other illustrations
• Each entry includes:
  • Concise topic introduction
  • Focus boxes

From the well-known Greek and Roman gods to the lesser-known Norse and African deities, this uniquely far-reaching resource encompasses early prehistoric gods and goddesses as well as myths found in literature, art, and popular culture. In addition to rich coverage of the Greek and Roman worlds, this title explores, among others, the mythic traditions of Africa, Arabia, Australia, the Baltics, Central Asia, China, Egypt, India, Ireland, Iran, and Southeast Asia, ranging from the peoples of the Amazon to Native Americans to Slavs.