The Mythology of South America (Gods and Heroes of the New World) - Hardcover

Bierhorst, John

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0688067220 ISBN 13: 9780688067229

Publisher: William Morrow & Co, 1988

Synopsis

Discusses the mythology from Indians of various regions of South America, describing origins, comparing the similar tales, and presenting some of the myths themselves

About this title

About the Author:

John Bierhorst is the author, editor, or translator of more than thirty books on Native American lore--eight of which have been named Notable Books by the American Library Association.

From School Library Journal:

Grade 8 Up In this overview and guide to the myths of the many tribes of South America, a distinguished folklorist introduces the scholarship behind the study of this mythology. While providing samples of the stories themselves, Bierhorst concentrates on the themes and motifs of the principal myths, the variants of them among the tribes, and on legends unique to individual tribes. He divides South America into seven regions, summarizing the great mythological themes of each. There are creation myths, stories of origins, stories about the roles of men and women and conflicts between the sexes, and stories which very frankly tell of the origins of various aspects of anatomy and sexuality. Gifford's Warriors, Gods, and Spirits from Central and South American Mythology (Schocken, 1983) tells some of the stories with introductory material for each region. The two books complement each other. Bierhorst provides a guide to the different tribal cultures and their vast folklore, while Gifford provides the stories themselves in a fuller form, covering both Central and South America in one profusely illustrated volume. Bierhorst's is an excellent book, illustrated with native artworks, for readers seriously interested in mythology or for student reports. Louise Yarian Zwick, Houston Public Library
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: William Morrow & Co
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 0688067220
• ISBN 13: 9780688067229
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 269