Description
By: Andrew Lang
In Custom and Myth, Andrew Lang delves into the origins and significance of various customs and myths from different cultures around the world. He explores how these traditions have shaped societies and offers thought-provoking analysis on how they continue to impact our modern world.
Lang’s writing is both informative and engaging, making complex ideas accessible to readers with a keen interest in anthropology and folklore. He draws connections between seemingly disparate customs and myths, demonstrating the universal themes that bind humanity together.
While some chapters may feel a bit dense with historical details, Lang’s passion for the subject shines through, keeping readers intrigued and eager to learn more.
Overall, Custom and Myth is a fascinating exploration of the human experience through the lens of tradition and belief. Lang’s insightful commentary offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the cultural roots of our society.
Book Description:
CUSTOM AND MYTH
INTRODUCTION.
Though some of the essays in this volume have appeared in various serials, the majority of them were written expressly for their present purpose, and they are now arranged in a designed order. During some years of study of Greek, Indian, and savage mythologies, I have become more and more impressed with a sense of the inadequacy of the prevalent method of comparative mythology. That method is based on the belief that myths are the result of a disease of language, as the pearl is the result of a disease of the oyster. It is argued that men at some period, or periods, spoke in a singular style of coloured and concrete language, and that their children retained the phrases of this language after losing hold of the original meaning. The consequence was the growth of myths about supposed persons, whose names had originally been mere ‘appellations.’
