Arthur Cotterell Book order

A volume of unprecedented scale from one of the most respected academic and writer on comparative mythology, sumptuously illustrated throughout.

Spanning some 4,000 years and drawing anecdotes and quotations from ancient sources, Where War Began is a lively narrative of the origins of war in a region that is still afflicted by war and that still shapes global politics.

A lavishly illustrated history of Ancient Assyria and Babylon for the general reader.

In this important volume three ancient mythologies are brought to life: the Classical mythology of ancient Greece and Rome; the fairytale myths of the Celtic world; and from Northern Europe, tales of Germanic gods, Nordic warriors and fearsome giants. For maximum accessibility each entry is listed in A-Z order, detailing characters, locations, and sites of interest, significant events, stories and symbols. Pictorial features also focus on recurring mythological themes, such as Oracles, Magic, Voyages, Heroes, and Spells, making this book universal in theme and timeless in appeal. This is a lavish guide to the classic mythologies

A sweeping, erudite, and accessible cultural history of the lands of the Near East, from the Sumerians to beyond the end of World War II.

Bali's rich cultural tapestry is woven from its unique blend of Hindu beliefs and ancient connections with nature, where everything is imbued with spiritual significance. The island is home to around 20,000 temples and countless shrines, making religious festivals and dance-dramas integral to community life. Despite historical struggles, the resilience of the Balinese shines through their art and craftsmanship, with stunning sculptures and textiles reflecting their devotion to beauty. Visitors are left enchanted by the island's heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

Bali is unlike anywhere else. Despite the advent of international tourism, this Indonesian island remains an untarnished cultural gem set in an idyllic landscape. Spirit-haunted as is the rest of Southeast Asia, Bali boasts a unique amalgam of beliefs because Hinduism overlays a much older relationship with the physical world. Nothing is ......

The essential volume on the history of maritime and mainland Southeast Asia from earliest recorded times until the present day - by acclaimed historian Arthur Cotterell.

A comprehensive reference source to the ancient world's most fascinating mythologies, bringing together the Classical legends of ancient Greece and Rome; the fairytale myths of the Celtic world; and from Northern Europe, tales of Germanic gods, Nordic warriors and giants.

This unique reference work treats the classical mythologies of the Old World as a cohesive whole, encompassing the mythologies of Greece, Rome, Persia, India, and China for the first time. Arthur Cotterell explores the commonalities among these traditions, particularly through their Indo-European roots, revealing deeper insights through comparison and contrast. The parallels between Greek and Indian myths are particularly striking, highlighting differing attitudes toward concepts like heroism, love, and death. The emphasis on ascetic power in Indian mythology stands out, as does the unique nature of Greek tragedies, such as Oedipus, whose heroic failure is intriguingly linked to his physical condition. Myths are not merely recounted; their complexities are interpreted within their cultural contexts, illustrating the significant influence of Zoroaster on Persian mythology and its later impact on Christian thought. The work features over 200 original illustrations commissioned to depict how gods, heroes, and other figures were envisioned during the classical period, based on contemporary art rather than later interpretations. Combined with well-crafted entries and an informative introduction, this resource serves as an essential handbook for both students and general readers.