Originally told to explain the mysteries of the world - such as creation, divine will, fertility, death, and love - myths are a major part of many cultures throughout the world, and each area has its own myths.

This book is organized by geographic region, and each myth is placed within the civilization's history and context.

The key elements of world mythology, such as the hero, his divine connection, the labyrinth, the initiation, and the transformation,are explored in boxes and features throughout the book.

Philip Wilkinson has more than 50 titles to his credit in the fields of mythology, history, and the arts, including DK's Illustrated Dictionaries of Mythology and Religions.