As Thomas Bulfinch stated over a century ago, knowledge of mythology is vital for the understanding and enjoyment of much of the world's great art, literature and cultural heritage. Without a thorough knowledge of mythology, much of the meaning of the world's great poems, artistic masterpieces and timeless literature is lost. As a comprehensive, highly illustrated A-to-Z dictionary of all the major figures and places of mythology from around the world, The Dictionary of World Myth provides the key to being culturally literate. Scholarly in content, yet immensely readable, the book covers all major bodies of myth, not just the Greek and Roman. What makes this dictionary unique is its in-depth coverage of global mythology, such as Middle Eastern, Chinese, Indian, African, North American, Slavic, Japanese, South and Central American, and Southeast Asian mythic traditions, both past and present. The entries reflect the diversity and timeless appeal of mythology. Highlighted feature panels scattered throughout the book focus on universal themes, such as afterlife, chaos, flood myths and the origins of death. Adding to the book's reference value are approximately 200 specially commissioned drawings of mythological figures and symbols, cross references, and a comprehensive index. Mythology has provided profound interpretations of the mysteries of the world surrounding us, from the seasons to the major life cycles of birth and death, even life itself. Without a proper grounding in mythology, we are not only ignorant of much of our culture, but adrift from a sense of history that can keep us rooted to our past. The Dictionary of World Myth will serve as a useful guide both to past traditions and to the larger world around us.