In this fabulous reference book, the powerful and enthralling tales of East Asia are revealed in all their magnificence. This exciting publication is essential reading for all those interested in the myths and legends of Asian cultures, their retelling down the generations, and the way they influence and colour our thinking and beliefs in the modern day.

The first anthology in English of South-East Asian myths, this book is an engaging look at these rich storytelling traditions. It includes new translations of some shorter tales and concise paraphrases of longer epics. There are separate sections devoted to poetry, drama, proverbs, and prose from various regions and cultures. A wide range of readers will find themselves absorbed in the romance, tragedy, drama, and adventure of South-East Asian kings, princes, princesses, heroes and heroines, and ordinary people.

With their universal themes of love, loss, and justice, myths, which define the values and customs of a particular society, continue to have meaning for us hundreds and even thousands of years after they were first told. The lavishly illustratd volumes in this series of mythological tales and beliefs from around the world explore the cultures of ancient Greece; Scandinavia; Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales; the Far East; Native America; Africa, and Central and South America. An enlightening look at the foundations of Asian culture.

From one of the world's leading historians?a comprehensive narrative of the 3,000 years that have formed Asia's people, culture, and global destiny Tracing its origins in Mesopotamia to its modern role on the global geopolitical stage, historian Arthur Cotterell offers a compelling, lively, and readable account of one of the most culturally diverse, and often misunderstood, parts of the world. Beginning with the emergence of the world's earliest civilization in 3000 BC, Asia: A Concise History provides a fascinating look at the global convulsions?like the rise and fall of Assyria and Persia, the medieval states that flourished after the advent of Islam, and the modern transformations triggered by the lightning conquests of imperial Japan?that have shaped the continent. Covers the great events and figures of Asian history, along with a look at the monumental remains that bear witness to those times: the ziggurats of Iraq, the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, the temple of Angkor Wat Includes fascinating slices of history, including funeral arrangements for Qin Shi Huangdi in 210 BC; an extract from Lord Macartney's journal of his 1793 diplomatic mission to the Qing emperor Qian Long; and Toyotomi Hideyoshi's edict of 1587 banning firearms in Japan Features boxed inserts of special interest?like a Babylonian recipe for lamb stew circa 1500 BC Contains over 100 illustrations, maps, and photos Other books by Cotterell: The Minoan World, The First Emperor of China, The Encyclopedia of Mythology, and Chariot Destined to become a reference staple for history buffs and students of Asian history, Asia: A Concise History offers readers a breathtaking narrative and wealth of detail that make the formative periods, key events, and personalities from this once remote part of the world come alive.

An authoritative A-Z guide to mythologies and legends of the East, with 500 sumptuous images.

This magnificent book reveals the powerful and evocative mythologies of the East in all their glory. Mythological themes include Yin and Yang, the avatars of Vishnu, demons and black magic, and the incarnations of the mother goddess. The book covers Asia, ancient Egypt, Persia, Asia Minor, Sumer, Babylon, India, China and Japan, and explores legends of the gods who have shaped Eastern religion and Western philosophy. Illustrated with over 500 evocative photographs, this fascinating guide brings to life to the mythology of the gods and goddesses, heroes, sacred animals and places of the East in a highly readable and accessible style.