Theories of Mythology: Ancient Cultures

"I have rarely been in a position to recommend a book with more enthusiasm. It is an extremely lucid introduction to theories of myth and is accessible to those with no prior knowledge. The book is the most comprehensive of its kind--and the most useful." R. L. Fowler, University of Bristol

Theories of Mythology provides students with both a history of theories of myth and a practical "how-to" guide to interpreting myth.

The book offers a critical introduction to the major theories of myth from the nineteenth century to the present day, covering comparative approaches, psychoanalysis, ritual theories, structuralism, and ideological analysis. A clear and accessible exposition of the founding theorists and their scienti c, intellectual, and social contexts is combined with an analysis of each method's assumptions, goals, characteristic procedures, and relative strengths. Featuring sample readings of familiar myths, the book supplies readers with the theoretical tools for imitating each method.