The sources of human civilization are explored in depth with the inclusion of not only the classic Greek and Roman myths of antiquity, but also the strange and unfamiliar mythologies of cultures other than our own: from Peru to Persia; from Tahiti to Togoland. The Gods and legends of every part of the world are revealed in all their splendor with an imaginative and highly readable text accompanied by authentic paintings, sculpture, symbols, idols, and ritual objects.-- The first and most famous complete encyclopedia of world mythology-- Nearly 600 illustrations, many in full color, of ancient, primitive and exotic art