Contains articles related to women and mythology on regional themes; includes articles by White and Payne on Aboriginal mythology annotated separately.

Organised by culture, each section outlines the mythological system of the culture, naming the major figures and their relation to one another. The meanings of the major myths are explored from a woman's point of view.

Professor Roger Woodard brings together a group of the world's most authoritative scholars of classical myth to present a thorough treatment of all aspects of Greek mythology. Sixteen original articles guide the reader through all aspects of the ancient mythic tradition and its influence around the world and in later years. The articles examine the forms and uses of myth in Greek oral and written literature, from the epic poetry of 8th century BC to the mythographic catalogues of the early centuries AD. They examine the relationship between myth, art, religion and politics among the ancient Greeks and its reception and influence on later society from the Middle Ages to present day literature, feminism and cinema. This Companion volume's comprehensive coverage makes it ideal reading for students of Greek mythology and for anyone interested in the myths of the ancient Greeks and their impact on western tradition.

Through a collection of essays by female authorities on mythological social structures worldwide,this first-of-its-kind extensive guide reveals the stories,goddesses,gods,and heroines that make up our mythological heritage. The Companion is illustrated throughout and organized by culture,spanning the Near East,Europe,Asia,Oceania,and the Americas.Each section outlines the mythological beliefs of that culture, highlighting the key features and their relationships to each other.Contributors then narrates the major myths involving women and examine the meanings of each story from feminist points of view.Scholarly yet entertaining and cross-referenced to trace themes and debates across continents of time- including a chapter on "Goddesses in the Twentieth Century"- this companion will be a rich resource for years to come.

A Companion to Folklore presents an original and comprehensive collection of essays from international experts in the field of folklore studies. Unprecedented in depth and scope, this state-of-the-art collection uniquely displays the vitality of folklore research across the globe. An unprecedented collection of original, state of the art essays on folklore authored by international experts Examines the practices and theoretical approaches developed to understand the phenomena of folklore Considers folklore in the context of multi-disciplinary topics that include poetics, performance, religious practice, myth, ritual and symbol, oral textuality, history, law, politics and power as well as the social base of folklore Selected by Choice as a 2013 Outstanding Academic Title