The Unending Mystery

(Paperback)

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Description

According to legend, anyone who wandered into the labyrinth in Ancient Crete never came out again. Some labyrinths may have offered patterns for an erotic spring dance. Those on the floors of Medieval cathedrals represent mathematical perfection-and walking their paths was a symbolic approach to the divine. From ancient Mediterranean coin patterns to the great French cathedral labyrinths to contemporary cornfield mazes, labyrinths and mazes have appeared all over the world, but never have so many been created as in today's revival, on farms, and in parks, churches, hospitals, and spas across the country. In his charmingly quirky investigation of an image that has inspired countless beautiful patterns and mysterious practices, David Willis McCullough offers an irresistible way to enjoy their enduring appeal.

Reviews

"Engaging history. . . . As David McCullough reveals . . . labyrinths and mazes are puzzles that engage our minds as well as apt physical embodiments of the journeys we all face."--Discover

"There are a few books on the history of labyrinths and mazes, but none as complete and entertaining as this one. . . . A delightful read."-Martin Gardner, author of The Scientific American Book of Mathematical Puzzles and Diversions.

"An engrossing look at the mythologies and symbolism inherent in mazes and labyrinths-Psychology Today

"In the cheerful voice of one smitten by both subjects, McCullough takes readers on a tour of some fascinating labyrinths and mazes. . . . Captivating." --Kirkus Reviews

Engaging history. . . . As David McCullough reveals . . . labyrinths and mazes are puzzles that engage our minds as well as apt physical embodiments of the journeys we all face. --Discover
There are a few books on the history of labyrinths and mazes, but none as complete and entertaining as this one. . . . A delightful read. Martin Gardner, author of The Scientific American Book of Mathematical Puzzles and Diversions.
An engrossing look at the mythologies and symbolism inherent in mazes and labyrinths Psychology Today
In the cheerful voice of one smitten by both subjects, McCullough takes readers on a tour of some fascinating labyrinths and mazes. . . . Captivating. Kirkus Reviews"

Author Bio

David Willis McCullough's previous books include Brooklyn . . . and How It Got That Way, several
mysteries, and, as editor, a number of anthologies, most recently Wars of the Irish Kings. For many years he was
a member of the Book-of-the-Month Club Editorial Board. He lives in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York.

From the Hardcover edition.