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.

The Greatest French Classics Of All Time serves as a literary voyage through the rich landscape of French literature, encapsulating the vibrancy and diversity of its canon. From the piercing introspection of Proust to the adventurous realms of Verne, this anthology curates an essential compendium of works that have shaped not only national but global thought and imagination. Each piece is a testament to the multifaceted nature of human experience, woven through a spectrum of genres that include tragedy, comedy, realism, and romance. The anthology stands out for its inclusion of seminal works that have sparked literary movements, challenged societal norms, and transcended the confines of their temporal settings to offer timeless reflections on life and society. The contributing authors, a constellation of literary luminaries such as Voltaire, Hugo, Sand, and Baudelaire, bring a wealth of perspectives to the collection. Their backgrounds, ranging from the philosophical musings of Rousseau to the stark realism of Zola, highlight a period of intense literary innovation and exploration in France that corresponded with tumultuous social and political change. Together, these authors have not only contributed to the shaping of modern French identity but have also left an indelible mark on world literature, allowing readers to trace the evolution of literary forms and themes across centuries. The Greatest French Classics Of All Time is an indispensable treasure trove for anyone keen to embark on a comprehensive exploration of French literary heritage. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the works of master storytellers whose narratives have perennially captivated the hearts and minds of readers around the globe. This anthology is not just a showcase of Frances literary genius; it is a gateway to a broader appreciation of the universal themes of human condition, love, conflict, and aspiration. Through its pages, readers are invited to participate in a continuous dialogue with the past, enriching their understanding of the evolving nature of literature and the enduring power of storytelling.

Explore diverse landscapes, travel back in time, and discover unique populations, all without leaving your chair! Start your international tour in France, land of the Eiffel tower, the Palace of Versailles, the Loire valley, world-famous cuisine, and so much more. This colorful, informative book introduces France's history, geography, culture, climate, government, economy, and other significant features. Sidebars, maps, fact pages, a glossary, a timeline, historic images and full-color photos, and well-placed graphs and charts enhance this engaging title. Countries of the World is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.

This book shows how absolute naturalism, deciphering nature without reference to God, emerged from the inheritance, dynamics and debates of orthodox culture.