Reveals man's attitudes toward beasts as evidenced in world mythology and folklore.

More than 100 animal denizens of every culture, time, and place populate this fabulous bestiary, illustrated by the author in charming detail. 32 illustrations.

Reveals man's attitudes toward beasts as evidenced in world mythology and folklore.

A beautifully illustrated alternate taxonomy of the animal kingdom, based on mythology, literature, art, and other cultural realms: “Charming.” —ForeWord Sacred cows, wily serpents, fearsome lions, elegant swans, busy bees, and sly foxes—all are caricatures of the creatures themselves, yet they reflect not only how different cultures see the natural world around them but also how such cultures make use of their native animals. In this fun and thought-provoking book, historian and animal enthusiast Boria Sax argues for a classification of animals that goes beyond the biological to encompass a more meaningful distinction: tradition. From ants and elephants to tigers and tortoises, The Mythical Zoo weaves together a cross-cultural tapestry encompassing mythology, history, art, science, philosophy, and literature. The result is a beautifully illustrated, masterfully composed love letter to the animal kingdom.

"Students, scholars, storytellers, and animal lovers will turn to this handy and intriguing reference for information on literature, history, mythology, and the emerging discipline of anthrozoology. Suggested readings are featured with each entry. The volume also includes a detailed introduction, which provides a cultural overview, and a comprehensive index."--BOOK JACKET.

From the household cat to horses that can fly, a surprisingly wide range of animals feature in religions and mythologies all across the world. The same animal can take on different roles: the raven can be a symbol of evil, a harbinger of death, a wise messenger or a shape-changing trickster. In Norse mythology, Odin’s magical ravens perch on his shoulders and bring him news. This compendium draws upon religious texts and myths to explore the ways sacred traditions use animal images, themes and associations in rituals, ceremonies, texts, myths, literature and folklore across the world. Sections are organized by the main animal classifications such as mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians and insects. Each chapter covers one significant grouping (such as dogs, cats or horses), first describing an animal scientifically and then detailing the mythological attributes. Numerous examples cite texts or myths. A final section covers animal hybrids, animal monsters and mythical animals as well as stars, constellations and Zodiac symbols. An appendix describes basic details of the religions and mythologies covered. A glossary defines uncommon religious terms and explains scientific animal names.