This book is compiled out of the short talks rendered by Swami Chinmayananda and should enlighten readers from all walks of life across the globe.

    The sequel to The New York Times best-selling A Practical Guide to DragonsHow do you trick a troll? Do vampires sleep? Why worry about yuan-ti? Just in time for Halloween, this lavishly illustrated guide showcases the spooky, unexpected, and always fascinating world of monsters!Book Details: Format: Hardcover Publication Date: 8/28/2007 Pages: 80 Reading Level: Age 6 and Up

    So begins Rabbi Geoffrey Dennis in his introduction to this one-of-a-kind encyclopedia devoted to the esoteric in Judaism-the fabulous, the miraculous, and the mysterious. The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic, and Mysticism presents lore that can spiritually enrich the life of anyone, Jewish or not, who wishes to understand the mysteries that underlie our universe.Jewish esotericism is the oldest and most influential continuous occult tradition in the West. This comprehensive treasury of Jewish teachings and lore drawn from sources spanning Jewish scripture, Talmud, the Midrash, the Kabbalah, and other esoteric branches of Judaism, is exhaustively researched yet easy to use. It includes over one thousand alphabetical entries, from Aaron to Zohar Chadesh, with extensive cross-references to related topics.The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic, and Mysticism includes a complete bibliography and helpful sections such as a quick reference glossary of frequently used terms, notes on Hebrew usage and transliteration, an appendix of illustrations, and a list of abbreviations of traditional sources. For the first time ever, thirty-five hundred years of accumulated secret wisdom, drawn from the wells of a great spiritual tradition, is at your fingertips.2007 National Jewish Book Award WinnerFinalist in the Reference CategoryFinalist - Jewish Library Association 2007 Book Awards

    "Beasts " is a classic mythological menagerie, comprised only of creatures that were thought at one time to actually exist, depicted by about a hundred of the most acclaimed artists and cartoonists coming from the most avant-garde ambits of the art world. The "Beasts" project has fired the imaginations of luminaries such as Craig Thompson, Souther Salazar, Jeff Soto, Glenn Barr, Dave Cooper, Tim Biskup, Seonna Hong, Jeremy Fish and Jay Ryan, who will present never-before-seen art completely original to this book, superbly laid out in breathtaking, full-color two-page spreads. "Beasts " collects many of the best visual artists from the worlds of comics, skateboarding, rock graphics, science-fiction, children's books, commercial and fine art. The book is conceived and designed by Jacob Covey, lead art director for Fantagraphics ("Dennis the Menace, Billy Hazelnuts, Hanging Out With the Dream King," etc.) and a well-regarded designer and artist in his own right in the Northwest rock and arts community. Other contributors include: Anders Nilsen, Art Chantry, Brian Chippendale, Brian Ralph, Bwana Spoons, Colleen Coover, Jason Miles, Jesse LeDoux, Johnny Ryan, Jordan Crane, Keith Shore, Kevin Scalzo, Marc Bell, Martin Cendreda, Mat Brinkman, R. Kikuo Johnson, Richard Sala, Sammy Harkham, Stan Sakai, S. Britt, Steven Weissman, Ted Jouflas, Tom Gauld and many more

    On the island of Tenedos, just off the coast of Troy, Achilles leads the attack. When the dust settles, Achilles finds himself one step closer to his tragic fate. Meanwhile, the Trojans prepare their defenses and gather allies. Agamemnon's offer of a peace embassy to King Priam reassures few. War appears inevitable. Even Helen dreads to face what lies ahead for her and everyone she loves or once loved.

    Hated and feared by many, he schemed to win the love of the beautiful goddess Parvati . . . but learned an important lesson when he invited her elephant-headed son Ganesha over for lunch one day . . . So goes one of the many delightful tales in this decidedly grown-up book of traditional Indian stories, retold for the modern reader. Author Kamla Kapur is well known in her native India as a poet and playwright, and her connection to these age-old stories is the reverent yet individualistic one we might expect from someone whose introduction tells of her hometown, where naked, dreadlocked holy men speed about on motorbikes. To collect these stories, Kapur relied on ancient sacred texts, modern scholarship, and chance encounters with interesting people who just happened to know a really good one about this time that Vishnu sank into the ocean, was incarnated as a pig, and had a really wonderful time. Like myths around the world, these are teaching stories that offer both a window into a fascinating culture that has endured for thousands of years, and a code for living that can be applied to the modern world.

    . . . For this is a tale of blood and heat and ashes."It is a tale that has been retold countless times through the centuries — and here, in an enthralling edition illustrated by a noted Tolkien artist, the mighty Beowulf is well set to capture new legions of followers. This contemporary retelling of the ancient epic — narrated with a touch of banter by the faithful Wiglaf and featuring vividly dramatic illustrations — follows the mythic hero from his disarming of the gruesome Grendel to his sword battle with the monster’s sea hag mother to his final, fiery showdown with an avenging dragon.

    Elves, dwarves, giants, wights dwelling in rocks, streams, and oceans: these beings have been friends, foes, and even lovers of humans, and often worked more closely with farming and fishing folk on a daily basis than did the gods themselves. In this book, Kveldulf Gundarsson, long-famed scholar of Old Norse religion and Heathen leader, looks closely at the history and folklore of these beings and offers a practical guide for dealing with them. Elves, Trolls, and Wights also includes Kveldulf's new translation of the little-known Icelandic skaldic poem "Berg-Dweller's Song," in which the giant Hallmundr tells of his own folk and world-faring.

    

    Only the great Lord Vishnu could make things right again. He got both devas and asuras to churn up life-giving nectar from the ocean of milk and then ensured that the asuras were kept away from this gift of immortality.

    Also included are stickers and mini-posters that you can use anywhere.

    It includes myths, heroes, places and legends from all five continents, and from the different cultures and peoples found there.

    But today's readers are often confused when they encounter the myriad names of those deities and try to understand their roles in mythology. This entertaining and mind-expanding book charts 100 of the most prominent characters from Greco-Roman mythology, including the primordial deities, the great gods of Olympus, and the shadowy inhabitants of Hades. Addressing universal themes such as love, jealousy, anger, ambition, deceit, and beauty, the stories told here make fascinating reading while they add significance to countless classical references in our civilization's literature and art. Author Malcolm Day profiles each god with a short, very readable summary of that personage's acts. He sets each deity's story within the larger context of a family tree that encompasses all major gods. Full-color illustrations showing memorable scenes from classical mythology include reproductions from famous paintings and photos of statuary. Separate chapters are devoted to:The Primordial Gods: Gaia, Uranus, Cronus, and others The Gods of Olympus: Zeus, Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, and others Descendants of the Titans: Iris, Nike, Helios, Eos, Atlas, and others Legendary Heroes: Jason, Oedipus, Daedelus, Paris, Helen of Troy, and others Figures from the Odyssey: Odysseus, Penelope, Circe, and othersThis virtual roadmap through the complexities of classical mythology features more than 100 full-color illustrations.

    Now, anyone can receive these teachings, and cultivate the high spiritual levels needed in order to bring humanity out of suffering.Samael Aun Weor wrote three important books about the power of sacred words, and how spiritual aspirants use prayer and mantra to awaken consciousness and benefit humanity. All three are included in this book. Learn how to protect yourself from black magic, negative forces, witches, sorcerers, and more. Includes techniques for awakening consciousness in the internal worlds, prayers for spiritual defense and healing, and detailed information on how to recognize the influences of black magicians.Logos Mantra Theurgy: This is probably the most densely packed book of spiritual exercises on the planet. Includes hundreds of techniques, such mantras for protection, awakening chakras, astral projection, healing, and much, much more. Best of all: they work.Esoteric Treatise of Theurgy: Samael Aun Weor reports his findings after an extensive investigation in the internal worlds regarding the ancient "Conjuration of Solomon," from which we learn about the types of awakened beings, and how to work with them safely.The Seven Words: Here Samael Aun Weor explains many details about the development of the Astral Body. He also explains how by means of the Eucharist (Unction) anyone can receive help from the root energy of spiritual awakening.

    This is very hard to accept which is why, so often, the body has the painful and dispiriting job of showing us what our psyche refuses to see.In jargon-free language, the author describes her own story of taking a turn downwards and inwards in the search for a metaphorical personal 'death'. If this kind of mortality is not attended to, then more literal bodily ailments and actual death itself can result.Paris engages with one of the main dilemmas of contemporary psychology and psychotherapy: how to integrate findings and insights from neuroscience and medicine into an approach to healing founded upon activation of the imagination. At present, she demonstrates, what is happening is damaging to both science and imagination.

    Armed with his father’s shield, he sets out to claim his birthright and face his greatest challenge—the Minotaur, a savage beast who is half-man, half-bull. To defeat the Minotaur, Theseus must enter the Labyrinth, a bewildering maze from which no one has ever escaped alive. Will Theseus succeed in his quest? Or will he suffer the fate of the Minotaur’s many other victims?

    --C. S. Lewis In From Achilles to Christ, Louis Markos introduces readers to the great narratives of classical mythology from a Christian perspective. From the battles of Achilles and the adventures of Odysseus to the feats of Hercules and the trials of Aeneas, Markos shows how the characters, themes and symbols within these myths both foreshadow and find their fulfillment in the story of Jesus Christ--the myth made fact. Along the way, he dispels misplaced fears about the dangers of reading classical literature, and offers a Christian approach to the interpretation and appropriation of these great literary works. This engaging and eminently readable book is an excellent resource for Christian students, teachers and readers of classical literature.

    Create a stronger connection to the sacred world and your own divinity by welcoming these thirteen powerful Celtic and Nordic goddesses into your life. As you make your way through a transformative year, know that each goddess has a different energy and a unique lesson to teach you. Starting with the Winter Solstice, the eight seasonal Sabbats and five faces of the moon provide the guideposts along your path. Through ritual, invocation, guided meditations, and magical activities, you'll explore each goddess's unique mythology and discover her message for your life.

    Connelly presents the fullest and most vivid picture yet of how priestesses lived and worked, from the most famous and sacred of them--the Delphic Oracle and the priestess of Athena Polias--to basket bearers and handmaidens. Along the way, she challenges long-held beliefs to show that priestesses played far more significant public roles in ancient Greece than previously acknowledged.Connelly builds this history through a pioneering examination of archaeological evidence in the broader context of literary sources, inscriptions, sculpture, and vase painting. Ranging from southern Italy to Asia Minor, and from the late Bronze Age to the fifth century A.D., she brings the priestesses to life--their social origins, how they progressed through many sacred roles on the path to priesthood, and even how they dressed. She sheds light on the rituals they performed, the political power they wielded, their systems of patronage and compensation, and how they were honored, including in death. Connelly shows that understanding the complexity of priestesses' lives requires us to look past the simple lines we draw today between public and private, sacred and secular.The remarkable picture that emerges reveals that women in religious office were not as secluded and marginalized as we have thought--that religious office was one arena in ancient Greece where women enjoyed privileges and authority comparable to that of men. Connelly concludes by examining women's roles in early Christianity, taking on the larger issue of the exclusion of women from the Christian priesthood. This paperback edition includes additional maps and a glossary for student use.

    An essential reference for anyone with a serious interest in unexplained phenomena, this title contains carefully researched, in-depth and balanced entries on topics ranging from alien abductions to the zodiac.

    If he tightens his belt, he doubles his strength. If he swings his hammer, lightning flashes. When he races his billy goats across the sky, their hooves kick up huge thunderclouds. And when the folks below in Middle Earth hear a boom of thunder, they always smile, for they know their loyal Thor, protector and defender of civilization, has once again brought order to the universe. Told and retold often and with great affection, the Thor stories have been around since the days of the Vikings. Here, illustrated with high drama and written with humor and skill, are ancient stories made accessible and fun.

    Here, Frank MacEowen explains this intuitive way of seeing by retelling a traditional Irish story, "The Settling of the Manor of Tara." The story is essential because it introduced to Irish culture the concept of the four directions — north, south, east, and west. For the Irish, just as for Native Americans, the directions act as guides and protectors. Once seekers learn to “see” the directions, spirituality becomes a living thing, making each seeker not just an observer but a participant. After retelling the ancient story in beautiful, prose evocative of ancient Ireland, MacEowen then places its wisdom in contemporary terms, and shares exercises and practices that help readers incorporate the teachings into daily life.

    Visitors to an emerald-green island off the coast of Mumbai are reminded of these dramatic episodes by the work of skilful, dedicated sculptors, who lived more than 1,300 years ago! Their carvings have survived in the caves of Elephanta, despite the ravages of time and vandals and destroying armies.

    Using many examples from Corbett's psychotherapy practice and other personal accounts, the book describes various portals through which the sacred may appear: in dreams, visions, the natural world, through the body, in relationships, in our psychopathology, and in our creative work. Using the language and insights of depth psychology, he describes the intimate relationship between spiritual experience and the psychology of the individual, revealing the seamless continuity and intermingling of the personal and transpersonal dimensions of the psyche. Corbett also discusses the problems of evil and suffering from a psychological rather than theological perspective, and suggests some of the reasons that traditional religious institutions fail to address adequately these problems. Based largely on Jung's writing on religion, b!ut also drawing from contemporary psychoanalyticheory, Corbett describes an approach to spirituality that is gradually emerging alongside the western monotheistic tradition. For those seeking alternative forms of spirituality beyond the Judeo-Christian tradition, this volume will be a useful guide on the journey.

    In these stories compiled by Harvey Leake, Wolfkiller shares the ancient wisdom of the Navajo elders that was passed to him while a boy growing up near the Utah/Arizona border. Wolfkiller's story was recorded and translated by pioneer trader Louisa Wade Wetherill, an unlikely pairing that came together when she moved to this remote area of southern Utah in 1906. Wetherill recognized that Wolfkiller was a man of exceptional character, with lessons and wisdom of the Navajo that deserved to be recorded and preserved for the benefit of future generations.

    As the Spanish colonized Mesoamerica in the sixteenth century, they made a determined effort to destroy these books, in which the Aztec and neighboring peoples recorded their understanding of the invisible world of the sacred calendar and the cosmic forces and supernaturals that adhered to time. Today, only a few of these divinatory codices survive. Visually complex, esoteric, and strikingly beautiful, painted books such as the famous Codex Borgia and Codex Borbonicus still serve as portals into the ancient Mexican calendrical systems and the cycles of time and meaning they encode. In this comprehensive study, Elizabeth Hill Boone analyzes the entire extant corpus of Mexican divinatory codices and offers a masterful explanation of the genre as a whole. She introduces the sacred, divinatory calendar and the calendar priests and diviners who owned and used the books. Boone then explains the graphic vocabulary of the calendar and its prophetic forces and describes the organizing principles that structure the codices. She shows how they form almanacs that either offer general purpose guidance or focus topically on specific aspects of life, such as birth, marriage, agriculture and rain, travel, and the forces of the planet Venus. Boone also tackles two major areas of controversy—the great narrative passage in the Codex Borgia, which she freshly interprets as a cosmic narrative of creation, and the disputed origins of the codices, which, she argues, grew out of a single religious and divinatory system.

    Using archaeological, epigraphic, and literary sources; and incorporating current scholarly theories, this volume will serve as an excellent companion to any introduction to Greek mythology, showing a side of the Greek gods to which most students are rarely exposed.Detailed enough to be used as a quick reference tool or text, and providing a readable account focusing on the oldest, most widespread, and most interesting religious practices of the ancient Greek world in the Archaic and Classical periods, Ancient Greek Cults surveys ancient Greek religion through the cults of its gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines.Jennifer Larson conveniently summarizes a vast amount of material in many languages, normally inaccessible to undergrad students, and explores, in detail, the variety of cults celebrated by the Greeks, how these cults differed geographically, and how each deity was conceptualized in local cult titles and rituals.Including an introductory chapter on sources and methods, and suggestions for further reading this book will allow readers to gain a fresh perspective on Greek religion.

     Offers in-depth discussions of oracles, wandering diviners, do-it-yourself methods of foretelling the future, magical divinatory techniques, and much more Illustrates how the study of divination illuminates the mentalities of ancient Greek religions and societies

    Edition and translations of a fascinating body of medieval Welsh poetry related to the legendary figure of Taliesin.

    Full of mischief, he fools around with gods and humans alike. He is also wise and shrewd, gentle and compassionate.These tales of Lord Ganesha include old mythological favourites, like the stories about his birth and how he got his elephant head. Alongside are little-known tales dug up from ancient texts—how Ganesha created the tabla, how he stopped Ravana from becoming all-powerful, how he raced around the world without moving an inch, and how he swallowed Vishnu, Brahma and Lakshmi in one big gulp! Each illustrated tale is told with sparkling wit—to match that of the boisterous god.

    For centuries the Northern Tradition has illuminated the way for many seekers. Based on her initiations into the powers behind the Runes, Freya Aswynn opens the path for those seeking to start their spiritual journey. "Principles and Powers of Runes" comprehensively covers the history and development of the Runes. The runes are much more than a simple device for making predictions, but are also a powerful tool for magic and self-development. Aswyn reveals how to understand each Rune sign and comprehend its spiritual and mythic background. She shows how to use the runes to find your life destiny, unlock your latent psychic powers and to heal. "Principles and Power of Runes" provides what a beginner needs to know to tread this path, while at the same time giving much needed and previously unavailable information for experienced practitioners.

    From Ireland's highly literate lineage to its storytelling traditions, from its intriguing history to its fantastical myths and folk tales passed down for thousands of years, from delectable Irish recipes to its inspirational cultural traditions, Irish and non-Irish alike will immerse themsleves in the spirited offerings of Ireland in this beautifully illustrated book. The Little Big Book of Ireland includes:LITERARY EXCERPTS from such writers as James Joyce, Frank McCourt, Samuel Beckett, and Edna O'Brien.POETRY by William Butler Yeats, Seamus Heaney, Patrick Kavanagh, Michael Longley, J. M. Synge, and others. FACTS & FANCY to inform and delight from A Wee Bit o' History and Emerald Isle Gems to Irish natural wonders and Irish toasts and blessings. SONGS include classics such as "A Bunch of Wild Thyme," "Danny Boy," "An Irish Lullaby," and "Wearing of the Green."RECIPES for traditional favorites including Irish potato griddle cakes, corned beef and parsnip, steak and Guinness pie, and Irish soda bread. MYTHS & FOLK TALES about such ancient figures as Deirdre and Naoise, Finn Mac Cumhal, banshees, leprechauns, and fairies. More than 150 full-color illustrations.

    According to the old story tellers of Greece, Persephone was kidnapped by Hades the god of the Underworld in order to become his wife.

    She has come from another world?a parallel world of mythology, where the whims of the gods decide the course of Destiny. Jenny fled in terror after her attempt to save the life of her first beloved boy interrupted the gods? plans for a battle for control of the world. But now her escape threatens Sam?s world as well. So Jenny has to convince her motley pack of dog friends?tiny Pico, giant Gentleman Jim, slow-moving Boris, excitable Checkers, and nervous Flo?that it?s their destiny to restore the worlds to order before it?s too late. Norse mythology, a huge respect for the hearts and minds of dogs, and many dashes of humor combine to tell the tale of a grand, epic quest to save the world for humans, gods, and dogs.

    The 3-D altars are accompanied by brief descriptions of each deity, along with mantras for use in meditation. The reader's spiritual journey is assisted by Lakshmi (who increases abundance and purity), Shiva Nataraja (who clarifies one's vision and eradicates misconceptions), Durga (who protects one from fear), and Ganesha (who bestows wisdom and courage for future endeavors). Whether interested in Hindu altars or a divine voyage, this gorgeous book provides readers with a captivating and unique guide.

    A full account of the works as well as the lives of the Greek and Roman writers is included. Painters, sculptors, and architects are treated at considerable length and an account is given of all their works extant or of which there is any record in the ancient writers. Care has been taken to separate articles on mythological subjects from those of an historical nature. Greek divinities are given under their Greek names and Italian divinities are given under their Latin names.The final volume contains chronological tables of Greek and Roman history, genealogical tables and a list of kings.The dictionary is especially useful for the lives of lesser-known writers. With contributors drawn from among the most distinguished scholars of the day the reissue of these volumes makes available once more an important and valuable work of classical scholarship.

    A book-length narrative poem, or a novella-in-verse if you prefer, HOW TO BUILD THE GHOST IN YOUR ATTIC is a novel-poem with a literary sci-fi bent, a shadow-text to Oedipus written in a style that is up-to-the-minute. With wit, dynamism, and cutting senses of urgency and humor, Iowa Prize winner Peter Jay Shippy tells the tale of Isaac Makepeace Watt, a melancholy man living in a Thebes that is much like contemporary America. The House of Cadmus still rules (and will fall), but they only appear in the poem as media white noise. Isaac's concerns are personal, his father's illness and his own moral decrepitude. There are talking monkeys, plagues, oracles, and nano-robots-you know, the usual agoramania.

    Integrating linguistic and textual approaches into an anthropologically-inspired framework, this book reassesses the full range of evidence. It traces continuities and changes in medieval non-Christian beliefs with a new degree of reliability, from pre-conversion times to the eleventh century and beyond, and uses comparative material from medieval Ireland and Scandinavia to argue for a dynamic relationship between beliefs and society. In particular, it interprets the cultural significance of elves as a cause of illness in medical texts, and provides new insights into the much-discussed Scandinavian magic of seidr. Elf-beliefs, moreover, were connected with Anglo-Saxon constructions of sex and gender; their changing nature provides a rare insight into a fascinating area of early medieval European culture. Shortlisted for the Katharine Briggs Folklore Award 2007 ALARIC HALL is a fellow of the Helsinki Collegium for Advanced Studies.

    This book includes more than 60 color graphics and a unique full color fold-out of famous artists galactic signatures. It is the duty of the Book of the Mystery to bring to the forefront the fact that, yes, human civilization is swimming in an ever-increasing sea of images, and many people are depressed and struggling every day just to survive. Why? The reason lies in a whole system disconnect from Source reinforced by the bombardment of images. According to Cosmic History, this situation can change in an instant when the human learns to shake off preconceptions of the world and regain their imaginal freedom. Once everyone returns to the core of their unique, imaginal essence, our planet will be transformed. Book of the Mystery Quality Paperback240+ pages, 60+ full-color graphics

    [and he saw] the angels of god ascending and descending on it.And he was afraid, and said, 'How dreadful is this place! This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.'"--Genesis 28:12, 17 KJV.This ground-breaking and provocative book presents new and astonishing interpretations of ancient history, mythology and world religions that will call many established beliefs into question. In Gateway of the Gods, author Craig Hines invites readers to reconsider preconceived notions concerning Biblical theology in light of recent scientific discoveries and inquiries concerning the nature of the universe. This fascinating exploration reveals a number of ideas that have been suppressed and obscured behind layers of symbolism and misguided propaganda for thousands of years... until now. * Why is it that so many world cultures share details of an event when fallen angels descended upon the earth and fathered hybrid offspring called the Nephilim? * Is it possible that these beings used "gateway" technology housed within pyramids and holy temples to travel between the heavenly and earthly realms? * Do the latest advances in theoretical physics lend credibility to the idea that otherworldly beings might reside in dimensions parallel to our own? * Do the recorded voices of the "dead," known as Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP), indicate that we may be able to communicate with these other realms? * Was a secret message embedded within ancient texts that could only be revealed after we have attained the knowledge and technology necessary to understand it? * Does this message offer a solution to the approaching environmental disaster that scientists warn will be more devastating to human civilization than any others in recorded history?Drawing from a variety of historical sources and years of meticulous research, the author weaves together a compelling argument involving a range of seemingly disparate topics that when considered together, formulate a radically new narrative concerning the history and destiny of the human race.

    There he meets a talking swan, who is really Zeus, king of the gods - and he really needs William's help. The knot that ties the world together is slipping, and the planet is about to explode! Can they trick the Gorgons and retie the knot before it's too late.

    Ragtime music provides the backdrop for this delightful tale set in 1800's New York.StormalongRead by John CandyOriginal Music by NRBQBoard the biggest ship ever built and hold on tight for the story of Captain Stormalong, the saltiest sailor on the seven seas. Sit back and enjoy the tallest fish tale ever told in this tribute to America's Golden Age of Sail.

    Includes philosophical notes.

    This modern retelling preserves the splendor of those Old English poetic conventions, while the taut, restrained phrasing captures Beowulfs original aural experience. But this is not a book for the ears only. Justin Gerards luminous paintings create empathy for a time when despair meant defeat and only courage could win the day.

    An English translation of four early Welsh legends, coupled with landscape photographs of places named in the text.

    In her radical rereading of the Greek myth, Oresteia, Amber Jacobs hopes to rectify the occlusion of the mother and reinforce her role as an active agent in the laws that determine and reinforce our cultural organization.According to Greek myth, Metis, Athena's mother, was Zeus's first wife. Zeus swallowed Metis to prevent her from bearing children who would overthrow him. Nevertheless, Metis bore Zeus a child-Athena-who sprang forth fully formed from his head. In Aeschylus's Oresteia, Athena's motherless status functions as a crucial justification for absolving Orestes of the crime of matricide. In his defense of Orestes, Zeus argues that the father is more important than the mother, using Athena's "motherless" birth as an example.Conducting a close reading of critical works on Aeschylus's text, Jacobs reveals that psychoanalytic theorists have unwittingly reproduced the denial of Metis in their own critiques. This repression, which can be found in the work of Sigmund Freud and Melanie Klein as well as in the work of more contemporary theorists such as Andr' Green and Luce Irigaray, has resulted in both an incomplete analysis of Oresteia and an inability to account for the fantasies and unconscious processes that fall outside the oedipal/patricidal paradigm.By bringing the story of Athena's mother, Metis, to the forefront, Jacobs challenges the primacy of the Oedipus myth in Western culture and psychoanalysis and introduces a bold new theory of matricide and maternal law. She finds that the Metis myth exists in cryptic forms within Aeschylus's text, uncovering what she terms the "latent content of the Oresteian myth," and argues that the occlusion of the law of the mother is proof of the patriarchal structures underlying our contemporary social and psychic realities. Jacobs's work not only provides new insight into the Oresteian trilogy but also advances a postpatriarchal model of the symbolic order that has strong ramifications for psychoanalysis, feminism, and theories of representation, as well as for clinical practice and epistemology.

    Using the tree as our witness, we see many small moments in history - moments that rippled outward to affect the world. But the tree is more than a witness, it is connected to all the life around it. It, too, has its tragedies, its suffering, and times of renewal.

    A wide variety of exercises, reflections, and vocabulary enrichment tasks accompany each myth. Students preparing for the ACL Medusa Myth Exam and the ACL National Mythology Exam will find in this an indispensable tool. Creation myths, stories of the Olympians and Titans, legends of the Trojan War cycle, love stories and tales of transformation are all included here. A teacher resource section provides historical, archaeological, artistic and psychological background, ideas for further research and exploration, as well as hands-on class activities.brbr Special Features:/brbrBased on primary Latin and Greek sourcesbrA fresh retelling of the timeless tales from Classical MythologybrContains content exercisesbrEnglish vocabulary words that are based on the myths are explained and accompanied by exercisesbrReflections upon the enduring quality of the myths are included

    He celebrated the lives of those seemingly pushed to the margins of national life, but who were simultaneously protagonists of their own drama and evidence of a vital and compelling community. Decade by decade, he told the story of a people with a distinctive history who forged their own future, aware of their roots in another time and place, but doing something more than just survive. Wilson deliberately addressed black America, but in doing so discovered an international audience. Alongside chapters addressing Wilson's life and career, and the wider context of his plays, this Companion dedicates individual chapters to each play in his ten-play cycle, which are ordered chronologically, demonstrating Wilson's notion of an unfolding history of the twentieth century.

    In Western culture, we frequently attribute events to science or to mechanical cause and effect. However, the Enlightened Masters have long taught that such events are actually brought about by the purposeful action of countless devas, or divine beings. These devas surround us in all we do and are constantly deciding upon and delivering to us the results of our actions. These long-secret laws of karma, excavated from the Vedic wisdom of India, will inform your decisions and broaden your spiritual vision, revealing the profoundly interconnected nature of all that exists.

    "Oh My Gods and Goddesses " reads between the lines, adds some lines (as in one liners) and goofs on the Gods in general. Hera on a mood swing? Apollo trying to renew his driver's license? Hermes dealing with an HMO? Coyote out looking for his penis? Why not? If the Gods didn't like to laugh, why are there humans?

    Various stories narrated by Betal to the King Vikramadithya

    Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

     Audience Intended for everyone interested Greek and Roman Mythology. Written in plain English. Features Fully illustrated with maps, art, and photographs Search for the words or phrases Navigate from Table of Contents or read page by page Add Bookmarks Text annotation and mark-up Access the guide anytime, anywhere - at home, on the train, in the subway. Always have the guide available for a quick reference. Table of Contents Ancient Greece: Overview | Art | Greek Mythology | Ancient Rome: Overview | Religion | Etruscan Mythology | Art | Roman Mythology | Romulus and RemusGreek Gods: Overview | Twelve Olympians: Apollo | Ares | Artemis | Aphrodite | Athena | Demeter | Dionysus | Hades | Helios | Hephaestus | Hera | Hermes | Persephone | Poseidon | Hestia | Hebe | Zeus | Primordial GodsGreek Gods, Heros & Creatures: Asclepius | Orpheus | Achilles | Pan | Nymph | Siren | Prometheus | Medea | Muse | Amazons | Centaur | Minotaur | Gorgon | Satyr | Cyclops | TitansRoman Gods: Fortuna | Faunus | Jupiter | Venus | Ceres | Neptune | Cupid | Diana | Janus | Juno | Mars | Mercury | Minerva | Pluto | Saturn | Vesta | Vulcan | Apollo | BacchusHeracles: Overview | Twelve Labours: Nemean Lion | Ceryneian Hind | Erymanthian Boar | Augeas | Stymphalian Birds | Cretan Bull | Mares of Diomedes | Hippolyta | Geryon | Hesperides | Cerberus | Lernaean HydraPoems: Homeric Hymns | Theogony | Cyclops | Iliad | Odyssey | Argonautica | Medea

    Even today the hypersexual female ghost continues to be a source of fascination in East Asian media, much like the sexually predatory vampire in American and European movies, TV, and novels. But while vampires can be of either gender, erotic Chinese ghosts are almost exclusively female. The significance of this gender asymmetry in Chinese literary history is the subject of Judith Zeitlin's elegantly written and meticulously researched new book.Zeitlin's study centers on the seventeenth century, one of the most interesting and creative periods of Chinese literature and politically one of the most traumatic, witnessing the overthrow of the Ming, the Manchu conquest, and the subsequent founding of the Qing. Drawing on fiction, drama, poetry, medical cases, and visual culture, the author departs from more traditional literary studies, which tend to focus on a single genre or author. Ranging widely across disciplines, she integrates detailed analyses of great literary works with insights drawn from the history of medicine, art history, comparative literature, anthropology, religion, and performance studies.The Phantom Heroine probes the complex literary and cultural roots of the Chinese ghost tradition. Zeitlin is the first to address its most remarkable feature: the phenomenon of verse attributed to phantom writers--that is, authors actually reputed to be spirits of the deceased. She also makes the case for the importance of lyric poetry in developing a ghostly aesthetics and image code. Most strikingly, Zeitlin shows that the representation of female ghosts, far from being a marginal preoccupation, expresses cultural concerns of central importance.

    This title, like its subject matter, is simply unbelievable Packed with 15 collectible miniature magical creatures in resealable snap-top tubes, theis book is chock-full of gorgeous illustrations, incredible facts, and amazing games with 23 cards each that will reinforce what young children have just read. Full color. Pkg. Consumable.

    Based in legend, it has become a legend in its own right: a supreme challenge for conductors, singers, opera producers, and indeed for audiences. But for all its grandeur and complexity, The Ring is far more accessible than many music lovers think. This two-CD guide explains the basics of the plot, profiles the leading characters, and shows how Wagner's revolutionary music adds fascinating layers of meaning and psychological insight, as well as providing some of the most stirring and intoxicating moments in the entire operatic repertoire.

    What if they're only sleeping? Spine tingling action combines with breathtaking suspense in Ninth Lord of the Night. In less than eight hours, seventeen-year-old Zack goes from California, the land of fun and sun, to the third world nation of Guatemala, where his life is changed forever. He expects to be bored, not tangle with murderers and artifact smugglers. He wants to go home, instead he's swept into the world of Mayan myths and legends -- a world that is his to claim if he only has the courage. Hated by his brother, distrusted by his uncle, and seen as a troublemaker by other members of the archaeological study group, the only person Zack can turn to is the beautiful Maria, a girl fighting the demons of her own heritage. Driven by unseen forces, Zack must choose to fulfill his destiny -- a destiny he neither wants nor desires -- and go against the vicious smuggler, or resist change and leave things as they are, allowing others to reinvent his character. Then, he must make the larger decision. Let go of the precious Mayan artifact? Or use it to redeem himself in the eyes of his family? In the steamy jungles of Guatemala, Zack will learn that every choice has consequences and he won't always get what he wants, but that what he does get is better than anything he ever imagined.

    Yet many of them went quickly out of print after their initial publication in far-flung journals. Brought together for the first time in this volume compiled and edited by Simon Bronner,  the selection surveys Dundes's major ideas and emphases, and is introduced by Bronner with a thorough analysis of Dundes's long career, his interpretations, and his inestimable contribution to folklore studies.Runner-up, the Wayland Hand Award for Folklore and History, 2009

    Johnson has over two million copies of his classics in print. A world-renowned analyst and storyteller who has brought fresh and powerful insights to three generations, Johnson stands with Carl Jung, Marion Woodman, and Joseph Campbell as one of the treasured cartographers of the human psyche. With his newly recorded audio, The Golden World, listeners have an unprecedented opportunity to experience the presence of this living legend as he unfolds essential lessons from his life's work--from the first mystical vision that shaped his personal journey to the most important tools and teachings for bringing meaning, beauty, and vividness to our own lives.

    Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

    

    In a compelling narrative, L. Caruana seamlessly weaves over 1500 sayings from the Nag Hammadi texts to recount The Hidden Passion of the Gnostic savior. Wandering round Galilee, increasingly hailed as the Messiah of the Five Seals, the Gnostic savior preaches divine awakening through compassion. But he must still contend with Judas, his dark twin, and Magdalene, his promised bride. At once earthly and spiritual, the Nazarene's love for these two is finally transfigured into a higher, hidden passion. Each page of this novel rings with the authentic message of the lost gospels. By combining numerous narrative fragments from the Nag Hammadi texts, The Hidden Passion makes the Gnostic Gospels come alive. Complete with a map, diagram and glossary, this novel elucidates the Gnostic worldview in an eloquent, engaging narrative.

    In Out of the Shadow: Ecopsychology, Story, and Encounters with the Land, Rinda West uses Jung's idea of the shadow to explore how this divorce results in alienation, projection, and often breakdown. Bringing together ideas from analytical psychology, environmental thought, and literary studies, West explores a variety of literary texts--including several by contemporary American Indian writers--to show, through a sort of geography of the psyche, how alienation from nature reflects a parallel separation from the "nature" that constitutes the unconscious.Through her analysis of narratives that offer images of people confronting shadow, reconnecting with nature, and growing psychologically and ethically, West reveals that when characters enter into relationship with the natural world, they are better able to confront and reclaim shadow. By writing "from the shadows," West argues that contemporary writers are exploring ways of being human that have the potential for creating more just and honorable relationships with nature, and more sustainable communities.For ecocritics, conservation activists, scholars and students of environmental studies and American Indian studies, and ecopsychologists, Out of the Shadow offers hope for humans wishing to reconcile with themselves, with nature, and with community.

    

    Drawing on her experience as a Heathen priest, Ms. Krasskova delves into this prayer line-by-line offering her own unique insights. This monograph is as much an examination of prayer and its place in modern Heathenry as it is an analysis of Sigdrifa's prayer itself. She raises many questions as to the nature of Heathen devotion and seeks, in her own inimitable style, to provide a few thought-provoking answers.

    Play as Ellen, a young girl in search of her mother; or Keats, a reporter searching for the truth, as they follow separate paths that lead behind the shadows of our world. Unravel the mystery and cross-over into worlds of fantasy--anddarkness. Are you prepared? Two Complete Walkthroughs Ellen and Keats have separate paths throughout an entwined story. This guide provides full coverage of both Exhaustive Bestiary Capture an enemy's soul to gain their powers and expand them. The comprehensive bestiary includes the statistics for all the creatures as enemies--and as valuable friends in battle. Costume Gallery Expand the breadth of your abilities as you uncover Cloaks granting potent powers. Region Maps Maps provide details for both walkthroughs for Keats and Ellen. Find critical paths to finish tasks and find hidden characters. Platform: PlayStation 3 Genre: Action/AdventureThis product is available for sale in North America only.

    

    Features a collection of seven ancient mythological tales from Scandinavia, along with a history of the Norsemen, their society and culture, and various mythological gods.

    The real hero of this novel, loved for four hundred years by Chinese readers, is the resourceful, brave and humorous Monkey.This series tells three stories:The Beginnings of Monkey,Monkey Makes Havoc in Heaven,Monkey's Conversion.7.25X10.25X0.65(inch), 233 Pages