Legends of the world

the long version

The most important, most popular and most curious legends from each of the five continents, and from sophisticated and primitive cultures alike, have been chosen by some thirty-four experts, all acknowledged authorities in their field. These writers relate the cultural context of each legend, illuminate the meaning to the people who heard them, and trace where appropriate their distant origins in recorded events and characters. A comparative survey charts the recurring themes and motifs, providing a fascinating view of how the same legend, with minor variations, appears in many different parts of the world. -- Book jacket.