Handbook of Hindu Mythology

(Hardback)

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Description

A guide to Hinduism through the ages, offering readers an accessible way of exploring its complex deities, mythological characters, and ideas. * A chronology of the mythological universe and the history of Hinduism, explaining the working and purpose of time and mythic time within the culture * An illustrated A-Z section with entries on major deities, characters, themes, rituals, and beliefs of Hinduism in cultural context

Reviews

"[T]his elegantly crafted work is designed for the general reader and will be a reliable reference standard for all library collections." - Library Journal "Williams has compiled a learned text based on sound knowledge of the Hindu religion. His methodical coverage of variant spellings, pronunciation, and capitalization in the preface is a valuable guide to writers and researchers ... Overall, the handbook is a prize catch for public, church, temple, school, and college libraries." - Booklist "This handbook will be helpful to the novice in Hindu mythology ... accessible to the general reader." - American Reference Books Annual "Williams's introduction is an extraordinary piece that should be recommended to any student first approaching Hindu mythology ... recommended without reservation to all libraries ... highly recommended; general and academic readers." - Choice

Author Bio

George M. Williams, PhD, is professor emeritus of religious studies at California State University Chico, Chico, CA.