Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities - by Charles Russell Coulter & Patricia Turner (Paperback)

Number of Pages: 605
Genre: Reference
Sub-Genre: Encyclopedias
Format: Paperback
Publisher: McFarland & Company
Age Range: Adult
Author: Charles Russell Coulter & Patricia Turner
Language: English

Book Synopsis

Throughout history, humans have pondered the question of their existence. In nearly every society, part of the answer has included some form of god or goddess. For the Mayans, one such deity was Ajtzak, who tried to create humans from wood; for the Yorubas of Africa, Shango controlled the thunder and lightning. The Chinese of the Shang dynasty era worshipped Shang Ti. Evil deities were also part of the answer, as in the case of the Kuvera, the Hindu chief of evil in the Vedic period, and Tu, the Persian or Islamic demon of fatal accidents. All of the known ancient gods, many heretofore obscure or known only from mythological literature, are included in this exhaustive reference work. The focus is on their origins, histories, and functions. The people who believed in each deity are identified, along with alternate names or spellings both old and modern. The descriptions that follow are of the functions, origins and physical nature of the deities. Extensive cross references are provided for alternate spellings and names.

Review Quotes

"many little-known gods from obscure mythologies are included...a valuable resource"--Library Journal

"many more entries [than the competition]. Academic and large public libraries in need of resources on this topic should purchase this work"--Booklist

"a tremendous reference source for any collection, heartily recommended"--Choice

"provides much information...a good resource"--ARBA

"an impressive list of over 10,000 deities...comprehensive index"--Against the Grain

"a perfect reference book for any library...usage will be immense...an essential purchase"--Reference Reviews

"exhaustive...extensive cross-referencing"--Reference & Research Book News

"a comprehensive 'who's who' of deities"--Catholic Library World.

About the Author

The late Charles Russell Coulter was a novelist and engineer. Patricia Turner is a writer and researcher in Margate, Florida.