Esteemed scholar David Leeming; who has authored more than twelve books on mythology; here offers the first comprehensive narrative study of the mythology of the Middle East; that tumultuous region that was the cradle of civilization. Leeming begins with a brief; engaging history of the Middle East; spanning Neolithic cultures; the Bronze Age and the Iron Age; the invention of writing and the rise of Egypt and Babylonia; Israel and Roman rule; and the early history of the Jews; Christians; and Muslims. This is followed by an in-depth discussion of the mythology of the region; covering individual pantheons; cosmic myths; mythic heroes; and much more. Leeming ranges from prehistoric figures such as the Mother Goddess of Çatal Hüyük to Mesopotamian gods such as Marduk and mythic heroes such as Gilgamesh; to the pantheon of Egyptian mythology; including the falcon-headed sky-sun god Horus and jackal-headed Anubis. The author also offers an illuminating exploration of the mythology of the three great monotheistic religions of the region: Judaism; Christianity; and Islam. In a provocative Epilogue; Leeming depicts today's crisis in the Middle East as "violent; clearly immoral; and illegal actions" justified by "what can only be called myths." He notes that fundamentalists in the area's three religions all see their way as the only way; forgetting that myths represent truths that are spiritual and philosophical--not historical events that can be used to justify acts of violence. With key maps; illustrations; bibliography; and index; Jealous Gods and Chosen People provides an inclusive; authoritative; and captivating account of a mythology that remains a potent--and often destructive--force in the world today.
#353488 in Books Oxford University Press 2000-04-20Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 6.30 x 1.10 x 9.10l; 1.85 #File Name: 0195137876544 pagesGreat product!
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A page-turner insider history of Vietnam over four generationsBy Cornelia JensenUnlike the standard history from an outsider perspective; this book is a page-turner. The author skillfully weaves together the larger picture of Vietnamese history with the moving and insightful story of her own family. It provides rich detail grounded in the authentic experiences of family members whose diverse life choices illustrate the complexities and challenges of a country and people in times of colonial oppression; war; revolution; and emigration. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to learn about the history and culture of this fascinating country from the perspectives of the Vietnamese themselves.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Highly recommendedBy Margaret LicosatiThis is amazing story written by the author who lived it! Although long and complex; it helped me gain a greater understanding of the scenario behind the Vietnam war. That was a confusing time for me and for many Americans who lived during that period. I highly recommend this book for those interested in gaining clarity about that war and the culture behind it.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Four StarsBy MCwell written
