James George Frazer Book order

Focusing on the comparative analysis of mythology and religion, this work by Sir James George Frazer explores various cultural beliefs and practices. Originally published in multiple volumes from 1890 onward, it examines themes of magic, ritual, and the evolution of religious thought. The extensive research spans numerous cultures, providing insights into the commonalities and differences in human belief systems. The later editions further refine and expand upon the initial findings, making it a significant contribution to anthropology and the study of religion.

Bronislaw Malinowski's pathbreaking Argonauts of the Western Pacific is at once a detailed account of exchange in the Melanesian islands and a manifesto of a modernist anthropology. Malinowski argued that the goal of which the ethnographer should never lose sight is 'to grasp the native's point of view, his relation to life, to realise his vision of his world.' Through vivid evocations of Kula life, including the building and launching of canoes, fishing expeditions and the role of myth and magic amongst the Kula people, Malinowski brilliantly describes an inter-island system of exchange - from gifts from father to son to swapping fish for yams - around which an entire community revolves. A classic of anthropology that did much to establish the primacy of painstaking fieldwork over the earlier anecdotal reports of travel writers, journalists and missionaries, it is a compelling insight into a world now largely lost from view. With a new foreword by Adam Kuper.

Focusing on the scarcity and rising costs of early 20th-century literature, this initiative aims to republish classic works in modern, affordable editions. Each book retains the original text and artwork, preserving the historical essence while making them accessible to contemporary readers.

This study explores the universal beliefs in magic across ancient cultures, highlighting practices such as nature worship and the myths surrounding dying gods. It delves into the significance of divine sacrifice, particularly the role of kings in these rituals. By examining these themes, the work offers valuable insights into the anthropological understanding of myth and magic throughout history.

Exploring the intersections of religion, magic, folklore, and mythology, this classic work by J.G. Frazer delves into the beliefs and practices that shape human culture. Originally published in 1913, it offers valuable insights into ancient traditions and their relevance. Obscure Press aims to make such rare texts accessible by republishing them in high-quality, modern editions while preserving the original content and illustrations. This effort highlights the enduring significance of these foundational ideas in understanding human society.

Druhá žeň, pokračování Zlaté ratolesti, je jedním ze záklaních děl světové etnografie, které ovlivnilo názory několika generací na myšlení, mýty, rituály a magii ze všech koutů světa. V Druhé žni doplnil J. G. Frazer nové poznatky a údaje vycházející ze soustavného studia po vydání základního korpusu Zlaté ratolesti. Mnohá témata jsou zde rozvinuta a podložena přesnými citacemi a odkazy, proto mají také některé kapitoly v obou knihách stejný název, jiné jsou úplně nové a původní.

V knize se významný světový antropolog a mytolog J. G. Frazer soustředil na soupis původních vyprávění a příběhů primitivních etnik a starověkých národů všech světadílů, která líčí získání ohně lidmi. Frazer se omezuje na prostý sled vyprávění bez kritického hodnocení, což propůjčuje knize výlučně narativní charakter, a mýty rozděluje pouze na období, kdy lidé oheň neměli, kdy ho nějakým způsobem, většinou od zvířat nebo bohů získali, a kdy ho uměli již sami rozdělávat.

This Elibron Classics title is a reprint of the original edition published by Macmillan and Co., Ltd. in London, 1922.