ymbols and ymbolism

General Bibliography of Print Sources, Annotated
(Alphabetical by entry)

      Click on the Dragon to return to the bottom of the previous section.

Legend:  Text only unless otherwise indicated:   = Source has graphics and text;   = Source has only graphics;  = Source indexed in Ch. 19.

 General bibliography of major sources:   The following is a bibliography of print sources used in this essay, with notations of some variations in editions, etc.  Where various authors are cited from a collected work, the individual authors are cited with their chapters, plus the main work is also entered, with a note, "Bibliographically analyzed."  [Being this is a work in its initial stages, some works listed here from time to time may later be deleted as irrelevant, even as others are being added.]

Thematic commentary index             Citation format description             Title Index

          Ab  Al  An  Ap  Ar  As

•   Abraham, Lyndy.  A Dictionary of Alchemical Imagery.  New York:  Cambridge University Press, 2001.  249 pp.  PN56.A44A27 2001.  §: 2, 7.
  ANNOTE

    Alexander, Hartley Burr.  See:  The Mythology of All Races, vol. 10, North American, and vol. 11, Latin-American.

    An Deming.  See:  Yang Lihui and An Deming, with Turner, Jessica Anderson.  Handbook of Chinese Mythology.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC Clio, 2005. 

    Ananian, Mardiros.  See:  The Mythology of All Races, vol. 7, Armenian.

    Andrews, Tamra.  Legends of the Earth, Sea, and Sky:  An Encyclopedia of Nature Myths.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC-Clio, 1998.  322pp., 0-87436-936-0.    BL435.A53 1998.  §: 2, 5.

  This is a single-volume encyclopedia in dictionary format.  Each entry has a source reference as well as cross-references at the end of the entry.  The author has included topics as well as gods and mythical creatures related to natural forces, but not living creatures or plants.  For instance, under "Earthquakes," there is mention (and illustration) of the Japanese catfish to whom earthquakes were attributed, but there is no listing under "Catfish" or "Fish."  However, there is a listing for "Sheep and Cattle," because they are used to symbolize natural forces.  (Curiously, there is no index entry for the catfish, either.  There seems to be some inconsistency in the selection and indexing.)  In addition to describing the myths, the author usually includes an interpretation of the meaning.  After the text of the encyclopedia, there is a "Guide to Primary Sources" as an appendix, arranged by geographical regions.  Then follows a broad 9-page bibliography, the illustrations credits, a 3-page Culture Index, and a 24-page Subject Index. 

    Aneseki, Masaharu.  See:  The Mythology of All Races, vol. 8, Japanese.

    Ann, Martha, and Imel, Dorothy Myers.  Goddesses in World Mythology.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC-Clio, 1993.  655pp., 0-87436-715-8.  BL473.5.A66 1993.  §: 2, 5.

  This encyclopedia of goddesses around the world attempts to cover some goddesses from every culture, but not every goddess or female deity in the major cultures (such as classical Greece and Rome, not to mention China.)  Between the Preface and the Introduction is a Guide to Entry Format, with an enlarged entry, highlighting what sort of information may be found in the most extensive entries:  After the main entry, there follows the region, people, attributes, translation of name and description, often followed by an icon (unique to each major region) and a concise story of the goddess.  Following the story comes any equivalent names (synonymy), cross-references, alternate forms of the name, and bibliographic citations keyed to the 12-page bibliography.  This makes for ease of interpretation.  Following the bibliography are indexes of goddesses by name and by attribute.  The text itself is arranged by these major regions:  Central America and Mesoamerica; Eastern Europe; Egypt; Far East; Greek and Roman Empires; The Himalayas; Indian Subcontinent; Near East; North America; Northern Europe; Oceania; South America; Southeast Asia; and Western Europe. 

    Apostolos-Cappadona, Diane.  Dictionary of Christian Art.  New York:  Continuum, 1994.  376pp., 0-8264-0779-X.    BV150.A66 1994.  §: 2, 6.

  This is a historian of religion's effort to interpret Christian art and its symbols within the historical context, with more emphasis on popular interpretation than official or doctrinal.  The Introduction uses a medieval altarpiece to demonstrate how interpretation is done.  The text of the dictionary then takes up most of the body of the book, with cross-references indicated within articles by asterisks.  Following the dictionary entries are a 3-page bibliography, a list of illustrations with credits, and an 8-page index. 

    The Archive for Research in Archetypal Symbolism and Moon, Beverly, ed.  An Encyclopedia of Archetypal Symbolism, vol 1.  Boston: Shambhala, 1991.    BL603.A72 1991.  §: 2, 8.

  ARAS, an organization for collecting images related to analytical psychology (Jungian) and the interpretation thereof, produced this volume of images and their interpretations. The organization resulted from the Eranos meetings of scholars in the mid-twentieth century and developed into collections of thousands of images.  Within each volume, each image includes a narrative description of the image, cultural context, archetypal commentary, bibliography, and glossary (usually 4 pages.)  Contents:  Cosmos and Creation; Center of the World; Sacred Animals; Monsters; Goddesses; Gods; Sacred Marriage; The Divine Child; Sacred Kingship; Saviors; Heroes and Heroines; Duality and Reconciliation; Revelation; Death; Transformation.  There is a related membership (for $fee) website:  http://aras.org/  

    The Archive for Research in Archetypal Symbolism, and Elder, George R.  An Encyclopedia of Archetypal Symbolism, vol 2.  Boston: Shambhala, 1996.    BL603.A72 1991.  §: 2, 8.

  The second volume in the series looks at representations of the human body.  Similarly to the first volume, each image includes a narrative description of the image, cultural context, archetypal commentary, and bibliography; there are no glossaries.  Contents:   Primordial Body; Bones; Skin; Head and Hair; Eye; Ear; Hand and Arm; Respiratory and Digestive Systems; Heart and Blood; Sex Organs; Foot and Leg; Transformed Body.  As in volume 1, the full-page photographs are magnificent in themselves; when the background and commentary are added, the encyclopedia becomes something very special.  However, as all the commentaries were written by one individual, there is a greater sense of eccentricity as well as a more forced and focussed sense of psychological interpretation, even in the physical descriptions.  There is a related membership (for $fee) website:  http://aras.org/  

    Arrowsmith, Nancy, with Moorse, George.  A Field Guide to the Little People.  New York:  Hill and Wang, 1977.  296 pp.; 0-8090-4450-1.  [HK083] GR549.A76.  §: 2, 5.

  This book, with its nostalgic attitude, tries to describe in detail the "fair folk."  It is organized in 3 broad categories, "Light Elves," "Dark Elves," and "Dusky Elves."  The entries within each category seem randomly organized, so the index is suggested for people seeking information on a specific type of elf.  Includes notes and a 6-page bibliography, as well as the detailed index and limited, full-page, b&w illustrations of some of the species. 

    Ashkenazi, Michael.  Handbook of Japanese Mythology.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC Clio, 2003; "Handbooks of World Mythology" series.  377pp., 1-57607-467-6.    BL2203.A86 2003.  §: 5.

  Following the form of the other titles in ABC Clio's "Handbooks of World Mythology" series, this book begins with an Introduction to the main concepts and historical developments, then has chapters to cover the main story line, a dictionary of deities and concepts, and a complex bibliography of print, audio-visual, and online resources.   The concluding matter includes a glossary, an 11-page appended bibliography of "primary sources," mainly in English, and a 45-page index, followed by a brief statement of the author's background.  In addition to ethnic Japanese mythological material, Ashkenazi has included Ainu and Okinawan myths, as well.  Most entries in the dictionary have both cross-references and source references/suggestions for reading. 

          Ba  Be  Bh  Bi  Bo  Br  Bu 

•   Balfour-Paul, Jenny.  Indigo in the Arab World.  Richmond, Surrey:  Curzon Press, 1997.  283pp., 0-7007-0373-X.  TP923.B35 1997.  §: 4.
  While most of the book is concerned with the history and trade of the dyestuff, Chapter 8, "Substance or Colour? — The Versatility of Indigo" (pp. 155-174, deals with the meaning and significances of indigo and the blues and blacks that were associated with it.  This final chapter also accounts for 8 full pages of notes.  The book includes a 22-page bibliography, a glossary of various terms, an appendix of chemical ring formulae, and an 11-page index. 

    Beane, Wendell C., ed.  See:  Eliade, Mircea.  Myths, Rites, Symbols:  A Mircea Eliade Reader, edited by Wendell C. Beane and William G. Doty. 

    Bedells, John:  See:  Pedersen, Christian Fogd; Bedells, John, Lt.-Cmdr, R.N., ed. of English language edition.  The International Flag Book in Color.  New York:  William Morrow & Co., 1971; Danish ed. Copenhage:  Politikens Forlag, 1970. 

    Beer, Robert.  The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs.  Boston:  Shambala, 1999.  375pp., 1-57062-416-X.    N7346.T5B43 1999.  § 6. 

  This large volume of symbols, of things, poses, and forms, are the result of the author/artist's many years of working with the Tibetan Buddhist images.  The author's intent seems to be creating an organized introduction to Vajrayana Buddhist concepts as illustrated by the scroll art called Thangkas.  On the individual symbols, the author attempts to give the various levels of interpretation and meaning to which each is subject.  The material is organized into 12 chapters, followed by a one-page bibliography:  1: Landscape elements;  2: Flowers and trees;  Animals;  4: Narrative subjects;  5: Cosmology;  6: Mudras;  7: The Chakravartin and his seven precious possessions;  8: Auspicious symbols;  9: Various peaceful offerings, jewels, and ritual implements;  10: The wheel of sharp weapons;  11: Wrathful offerigs, tormas, and ritual fire hearths;  and 12: Geometric borders, patterns, designs, and motifs. 

    ______________.  The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols.  Boston:  Shambala, 2003.  262pp., 978-1-59030-100-5.    N7346.T5B436 2003.  § 6  

  Beer provides in his Handbook a more concise introduction to the concepts of Vajrayana Buddhism and its related Tibetan artwork, with a different organization than in his Encyclopedia, above.  Although this volume does include a glossary, it is limited to major terms.  Therefore, unless otherwise knowledgeable about Buddhism and Buddhist art, bring a dictionary with you.  Neither of these books have an index, which, given the organization based on Buddhist concepts, cripples their usefulness as reference tools. 

    Bell, Robert E.  Dictionary of Classical Mythology:  Symbols, Attributes & Associations.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC-Clio, 1982.  390pp., 0-87436-305-5.  BL715.B44.  §: 2. 

  A topical dictionary of classical mythology, where "mythology" is defined as non-historical, not even semi-historical.  The main body of the work, "Symbols, Attributes, and Associations" has main entries arranged alphabetically, starting with "Abandonment", under each of which mythic individuals are listed with details and, occasionally, a bibliographic reference to the Loeb Classical Library series.  A second alphabetical section follows the first:  "Surnames, Epithets, and Patronymics," wherein individuals are listed with their various alternate names.  The third section includes "Heroic Expeditions," divided into several sub-topics (expeditions), one of which, the Trojan War, is further divided into 3 additional subtopics.  The volume is concluded with a "Guide to Persona," which lists the mythological persons in the first section with references to the entries under which they are included, but has no references to the other sections. 

    ______________.  Place-Names in Classical Mythology:  Greece.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC Clio, 1989.  350pp., 0-87436-507-4.  DF14.B45 1988.  §: 2. 

  This volume was originally intended to be part of Bell's Dictionary of Classical Mythology, above.  Instead, it has been published separately and limited to the geographical boundaries of the modern state of Greece.  While the author is correct in saying that no map could show all the places covered, a simple map showing the regions of classical Greece would be of great help.  This is especially true for those persons just becoming familiar enough with classical mythology to want to know about places—which, given the detail of myths recounted for each location seems to be one of the intended audiences for this publication.  After all, how many people who are not classical scholars remember the geographical relationships of Achaia, Arcadia, Thessaly, Boeotia, and other of the regions?  Most entries in the text are followed by either the modern name/spelling or the nearest modern town to its site, so as to make the book useful for travellers.  Thereafter follows the stories related to the site, including citations to the classical sources.  Two appendices are included, one a list of modern names with related ancient names, the other an index of persons mentioned and the towns under which they are mentioned.  The book concludes with a bibliography, divided between "Books" and "Maps and Gazetteers." 

    ______________.  Women of Classical Mythology:  A Biographical Dictionary.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC-Clio, 1991.  462pp., 0-87436-581-3.  BL715.B445 1991.  §: 2. 

  In a departure from the author's usual reliance only upon the Loeb Classical Library, this volume includes information from a number of additional sources.  As for his purpose, Bell states that "...this book attempts to look at the eternal woman, who still seeks solutions to problems that have followed her down the ages." (p. xi.)  The introduction concludes with a list of other sources in a discreet bibliography which range in date from mid-19th century to late 20th.  The text of this biographical dictionary then proceeds alphabetically, including cross-references within entries and "see" references from alternate spellings or names to the preferred entry.  There is also an appendix called "The Men in their Lives," for indexing the men, who traveled, with the women who, generally, did not.  In dealing with the myths, Bell says of himself in the Introduction, "I happen to belong to that persistent group that believes in a certain historical basis in certain of the epic accounts." (p. xi.)  There are some inconsistencies in his accounts.  For instance, under Electra (4), the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, Bell mentions the sacrifice of her sister, Iphigeneia, by Agamemnon (with no mention of the alternate accounts) and wonders why Electra did not hate her father, but later has Electra almost blinding an adult Iphigeneia before Orestes intervenes.  (Under Iphigeneia, several alternative versions are mentioned, but, according to Bell, he sees it as critical to understanding Electra, as well.)  As the author points out in the Introduction, many times there are inconsistencies in the myths and different layers; apparently some inconsistency is also true in this otherwise excellent dictionary. 

    Bently, Peter, gen. ed.  The Dictionary of World Myth.  New York:  Facts on File, 1995.  240pp., 0-8160-3300-5.    BL303.D46 1995.  §: 2. 

  A dictionary of mythology with a number of sidebars, which are listed in the Contents and interposed within the entries in the appropriate alphabetical position.  The 2-page bibliography lists general sources, followed by geographic sources arranged by region.  This is followed by an "Index of Themes," particularly useful when tracing a theme across myths or cultures.  There is also a wonderful "Index of Supplementary Names, Pseudonyms, Titles and Places without main entries," which more dictionaries of myth and symbols should do.  All cross-references from the entries are in the outside margins of the same page, rendering the articles easy to read or scan without interference.  The limited illustrations, usually from contemporaneous sources, are well labelled. 

    Bercovitch, Sacvan, ed.  Typology and Early American Literature.  S.l.:  University of Massachusetts Press, 1972.  340pp.  BS478.B47.  §: 6, 9. 

  This is a collection of 9 essays on the use and influence of typology in pre-Revolutionary New England, plus a 71-page annotated bibliography by the editor.  Includes notes on the authors but no index.  Contents:  "The Traditions of Puritan Typology," Thomas M. Davis;  "Scriptural Exegisis and the Literary Critic," Stephen Manning;  "'With My Owne Eyses':  William Bradford's of Plymouth Plantation," Jesper Rosenmeier;  "The Separatist Background of Roger Williams' Argument for Religious Toleration," Richard Reinitz;  "Cotton Mather's Magnalia and the Metaphors of Biblical History," Mason I. Lowance, Jr.;  "Poetry and Doctrine in Edward Taylor's Preparatory Meditations, Series II, 1-30," Robert E. Reiter;  "'The World Slickt Up in Types':  Edward Taylor as a Version of Emerson," Karl Keller;  "Edward Taylor and the Poetic Use of Religious Imagery," Ursula Brumm;  "'Images or Shadows of Divine Things' in the Thought of Jonathan Edwards," Mason I. Lowance, Jr.  

    Bhattacharyya, Narendra Nath. Ancient Indian Rituals and Their Social Contents.  London:  Curzon Press, 1975.  184pp., 0-7007-0083-8; 0-87471-735-3.  BL2003.B4 1975.  §: 5.  

  This is a study of rituals in India and Bengal in an attempt to interpret their social origins.  The eight chapters are:  One: The Priest and the Queen; Two: the King and the Dice; Three: Food and Drink; Four: The Twice-born; Five: Sacred and Accursed; Six: Earth and Woman; Seven: Death and Resurrection; and Eight: Hook Swinging.  Following the text is a 12-page bibliography and an 8-page index.  Unfortunately, the text includes a multitude of typographical errors and misspellings. 

  ______________.  A Dictionary of Indian Mythology.  New Delhi:  Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers, 2001,  326pp., 81-215-0862-2.  BL1105.B43 2001.  §: 2. 

  Dr. Bhattacharyya provides a broad but selective dictionary of the characters in the myths and legends of the Vedas and Puranas, including their inclusion in Buddhist and Jainist works.  In the introduction, the author states a quite different perspective on the definitions of myth and legend (pp. i, vi-vii), or, at least, uses a distinct set of metaphors.  Contents:  Preface; Abbreviations;  Introduction (a scholarly history of mythological studies and theories, with references);  Dictionary;  Bibliography (2 pages);  Index (19 pages, including cross-references.)  Each entry has the term/name, a definition in the form of whom and what the person was, and major sources of the information. 

    Biedermann, Hans.  Dictionary of Symbolism.  New York:  Facts on File, 1992.  Translation by James Hulbert of Knaurs Lexikon der Symbole.  465 pp.    AZ108.B5313 1992.  §: 2.

    ____________.  Knaurs Lexikon der Symbole.  Munich:  Droemer Knaur, 1989.  591pp., 3-426-26400-5.    AZ108.B53 1989.  §: 2.  

  This dicitonary of symbolism treats with the concept of symbolism and symbolic themes, not just graphic images, making this a superior dictionary of symbolism.  Despite this, it also includes many graphic images among the alphabetical entries.  In addition to the dictionary, the volume includes a multilingual bibliography, a graphic index, and a verbal index.  Geographically, it covers the whole world, with examples from many different cultures.  Please, note, the English translation shortens a few entries, especially in the examples, and leaves out some illustrations.  (Cf. "Robber" with "Räuber."   In addition to leaving out the illustration (of Germanic relevance), curiously, the reference to the American robber, Jesse James, is left out of the English translation although it is in the German!  The translator does add Shakespearean references.)  Some entries also give the Greek and Latin equivalents.  The German original is preferred, if you can read the language, over the sometimes loose English translation.

    Bierhorst, John, Ed. & trans.  Black Rainbow:  Legends of the Incas and Myths of Ancient Peru.  New York:  Farrar, Strauss, Giroux, 1976.  131 pp.  [HJ339] F3429.3.F6B55.  §: 5. 

  Beginning with an introduction to the land and culture, this book contains the recounting of myths, legends, and folktales of the Peruvian native peoples.  Following the stories are several addenda: Notes on Sources, Glossary of Indian Terms, Quechua Pronunciation, and a brief list of Suggestions for Further Reading.

    Birren, Faber.  The Symbolism of Color.  Secaucus, NJ:  Citadel Press, 1988.  177 pp.  BF1623.C6B53 1988.  §: 4, 7.  

  A multifaceted look at the way color and colors have been viewed across cultures and religions.  While the author admits to being fascinated by the occult, he has also assisted Houdini in debunking many "occultists."  In this book, Birren surveys the uses and perceptions of color throughout history from ancient usages to color therapy to LSD, while attempting to maintain a unprejudicial perspective. 

    Bonnefoy, Yves, ed.  Dictionnaire des Mythologies et des Religions des Sociétés Traditionnelles et du Monde Antique, 2 vols.  Paris:  Flammarion, 1981.  Vol. I=681pp., II=585 pp.; 2-08-010945-6.    BL311D5 1981.  §: 2. 

  Although titled a "dictionary," the articles of these volumes are more encyclopedic in length and detail.  The work is well illustrated, mainly with b&w photographs, but occassionally with line drawings.  After Bonnefoy's introduction to the work, there is a world map keyed to an index (4 pages later) of the major articles with geographic focus.  In between are a list of the article writers, with their abbreviation, affiliation, area of expertise, and/ or region of expertise.  At the end of the second volume is 31-page index.  An English translation, rearranged by Wendy Doniger and translated under her direction, is available as Mythologies, 2 vols.  Chicago:  University of Chicago Press, 1991.  0-226-06453-0.  In addition, there are regional versions extracted from the English translation.

    Bonnerjea, Biren (Virendra Vandyopadhyaya).  A Dictionary of Superstitions and Mythology.  Detroit:  Singing Tree Press, 1969.  Originally published:  London:  Folk Press, Ltd., 1927.  314 pp.  BL303.B6 1969 (1927).  §: 2.

  A basic dictionary of folk beliefs around the world and throughout history, arranged by individual topic.  The country is indicated for each interpretation, except for Great Britain, which is to be taken for granted where no country is indicated.  Includes a 15-page bibliography.  Some entries include cross-references to other entries.

     

  An interesting work which makes use of medieval beastiaries as well as some modern novels.  Each entry starts on a new page with a large, bolded entry title.  When describing a creature mentioned in a single source, the source is itself credited. The book concludes with an 11-page index, which is very useful for finding specific creatures.  For instance, look under "demons" and there are several pages. But they are alphabetically arranged in the book by common forms, e.g., the entry, "Jewish Demons" is under "J" and "The Moster Acheron" is under "M."  Some of the entries are peculiar, such as "A Creature Imagined by C. S. Lewis," (under "C," of course.) 

    Bruce-Mitford, Miranda.  The Illustrated Book of Signs & Symbols.  New York:  DK Publishing, 1996.  128 pp.    AZ108.B78 1996.  §: 2.  

  The "Introduction" of this book presents a complete, if simplified, introduction to symbolism and the studies of symbols and signs.  Arranged within 4 major categories (Mythologies & Religions; Nature; People; and Symbol Systems) are pages of signs and symbols with simple, brief descriptions of their significances.  Many pages include cross-references to other pages, making the research of a specific topic easier.  Heavily illustrated in full color; includes a glossary, index, and bibliography of "further reading" suggestions.  Curiously, the bibliography seems biased against European culture compared with most.   The sources in the bibliography are all from the last half of the century.  It could also be that there is a greater balance of world mythology and symbolism here than evidenced by other sources. 

    Brumm, Ursula.  American Thought and Religious Typology, trans. John Hooglund.  New Brunswick, NJ:  Rutgers University Press, 1970.  265pp., SBN: 8135-0621-2.  BS478.B7713.  §: 6,9. 

    In seeking the origins of the influences that inspired such American writers as Hawthorne and Melville and their use of symbolism, Brumm traces the use of symbolism to the Puritans and their extensive use of typology.  Tracing the influences more to American than the traditional trans-Atlantic sources, she covers the Mathers, Edward Taylor, Jonathan Edwards and Ralph Waldo Emerson, before examining their influence specifically on Hawthorne and Melville.  The final chapter examines the use of Christ and Adam as symbols in American literature.  Concludes with a 10-page bibliography and 3-page index.  The first chapter, "Definitions," has an excellent discussion on the distinction between "symbol" and "allegory," how they originate, and why allegory is currently in literary disfavor.  Chapter 2, especially pp. 22-24, explain and distinguish "type" and "symbol." 

    Buckley, Sandra., ed.  See:  Kobayashi, Audrey.  "Gardens," pp. 163-4.  Encyclopedia of Contemporary Japanese Culture.  London:  Routledge, 2002. 

    Burke, Kenneth.  "On the First Three Chapters of Genesis."  In:  May, Rollo, ed.  Symbolism in Religion and Literature.  New York:  George Braziller, 1960.  §: 6. 

          Ca  Ch  Ci  Cl  Co  Cr  Cs 

•   Campbell, Joseph.  The Hero with a Thousand Faces, 2nd ed.  Princeton, NJ:  Princeton University Press, 1968 (First ed., 1949.)  416pp., 0-691-01784-0.  (Limited illustrations)  [PM278] BL313.C28 1968.  §: 5. 
  ANNOTE

    ______________.  The Masks of God:  Primitive Mythology, rev. ed..  New York:  Penguin Books, 1976; Originally published by Viking press, 1959, rev. ed. 1969.  504pp., 0-14-004304-7  [PJ052] GN470.C33 1976.  §: 5.

    ____________.  The Masks of God:  Oriental Mythology.  New York:  Penguin Books, 1976; Originally published by Viking Press, 1962.  561pp., 0-14-004305-5.  [PJ053] GN470.C33 1976.  §: 5.

    ____________.  The Masks of God:  Occidental Mythology.  New York:  Penguin Books, 1976; Originally published by Viking Press, 1964.  564pp., 0-14-004306-3.  [PJ054] GN470.C33 1976.  §: 5.

    ____________.  The Masks of God:  Creative Mythology.  New York:  Penguin Books, 1976; Originally published by Viking Press, 1968.  730pp., 0-14-004307-1.  [PJ055] GN470.C33 1976.  §: 5.

  ANNOTE:

    Campbell, Joseph, assisted by Abadie, M. J..  The Mythic Image.  Princeton, NJ:  Princeton University Press, 1974.  552pp., 0-691-09869-7.   BL311.C274.  §: 5, 8.

  The preface to this large-format book could be summarized:  "This is a picture book with text added to give it coherence."  The idea behind the photos is that while we rush through text, graphics allow the eye to pause and consider the content.  Indeed, the first section (and, to a degree, the idea behind the whole book) is about the world as dream.  As Campbell says in the Preface, "This argument is, briefly, that through dreams a door is opened to mythology, since myths are of the nature of dream, and that, as dreams rise from an inward world unknown to waking consciousness, so do myths:  so, indeed, does life."  (p. xi)  Contents (major sections):  i. The Word as Dream, II. The Idea of a Cosmic Order, III. The Lotus and the Rose, IV. Transformations of the Inner Light, V. The Sacrifice, VI. The Waking.  These sections are followed by notes, illustration credits, and a 12-page index. 

    Carnoy, Albert J.  See:  The Mythology of All Races, vol. 6, Iranian.

    Carr-Gomm, Sarah.  The Dictionary of Symbols in Western Art.  New York:  Facts on File, 1995.  240pp., 0-8160-3301-3; 0-8169-3326-9.   N7740.C29 1995.  §: 2, 4.

  Creating a dictionary of symbols used in Western art, Carr-Gomm is careful to specify not only how she uses the term, "symbol," but also defines and explains the use of several other terms, such as "personification," "types," etc.  The work has sidebars for extended coverage of some symbols (all with a blue background).  The dictionary does little in the way of interpretation of symbols, mainly giving examples in specific art works.  In several of her descriptions of biblical scenes, her explanations of the background are inadequate to misleading.  The work's main purpose seems to be identifying biblical and mythological characters in classical to modern paintings.  Cross-references and source citations are located in the margins and printed in light blue, thereby avoiding being distractions within the text.  Includes a 6-page index of artists and a 2-page index of minor, "Supplementary Words."

    Cashdan, Sheldon.  The Witch Must Die:  How Fairy Tales Shape Our Lives.  New York:  Basic Books, 1999.  283pp., 0-465-09148-2.  GR550.C39 1999.  §: 8, 9.

  A psychologist's look at fairy tales.  Using what he calls "the seven deadly sins of childhood," the author interprets the fairy tales for adults, giving them a mythological context.  Contents:  1. Once Upon a Time;  2. The Witch Within:  The Sleeping Beauties;  3. Vanity:  Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall;  4. Gluttony:  Where Bread Crumbs Lead;  5. Envy:  If the Slipper Fits...;  6. Objects That Love;  7. Decit:  Spinning Tales, Weaving Lies;  8. Lust:  A Tail of the Sea;  9. Greed:  The Beanstalk's Bounty;  10. Sloth:  Geppetto's Dream;  11. Inside Oz:  Off to See the Wizard;  12. Once Upon a Future.  Two appendices follow the text to suggest ways to use fairy tales and where to find them (a narrative bibliography, including a limited list of published critiques from various perspectives.)  The book concludes with a 7-page index. 

    Chevalier, Jean, and Gheerbrant, Alain.  A Dictionary of Symbols,  Translated by John Buchanan-Brown from Dictionnaire des Symboles:  Mythes, Rêves, Coutumes, Gestes, Formes, Figures, Couleurs, Nombres, second ed.  Cambridge, MA:  Blackwell Reference, 1994.  1177pp., 0-631-18265-4.  GR931.C413 1994.  §: 2.

    ______________.  Dictionnaire des Symboles:  Mythes, Rêves, Coutumes, Gestes, Formes, Figures, Couleurs, Nombres, édition revue et augmentée.  Paris:  Robert Laffont/Jupiter, 1982.  1060pp., 2-221-50319-8.  GR931.D52 1982b.  §: 2.

  The most obvious difference between these two editions, other than language, is the English translation is larger is size, number of pages, and font.  In its preface, the French original goes into detail about how to use the dictionary and then provides a lengthy introduction to symbolism by Jean Chevalier.  In contrast, the English translator provides, as a brief introduction, a justification for Anglo-Saxons to give up their stubborn suspicions of symbolism, and little more.  It is greatly to be regretted that the French introduction was not translated in addition to the translator's own "Introduction."  The bibliographies appear to be identical, but the French (18 pages) is arranged by author whereas the English (25 pages) is arranged by the abbreviation used for source references within the text.  Moreover, the English bibliography provides, where possible, English language versions of the sources, a great help to those researchers not bilingual.  Despite the translator's description of the original as "supremely erudite, wide-ranging work of scholarship, lucidly organized, drawing heavily upon many different branches of learning...and mecifully free of the cranky dogmatism..." (p. vii), he felt free to edit out sentences, even whole paragraphs in many places.  For instance, under "Hydra," the English states in two sentences that Hercules dipped his arrows in the blood of the Hydra, which is evidence for why the blood was seen as symbolic for vice being both corrupt and corrupting.  This seeming nonsequitor results because the explanatory sentence in the original French has been left out.  Although there are numerous cross-references within the text, a general index would have been a welcome addition.  Most entries are quite lengthy, covering the concept through different epochs or across various cultures. 

    Ciardi, John.  How Does a Poem Mean?  Boston:  Houghton Mifflin Co., 1959.  366pp., numbered 663-1028.  PS586.C53.  §: 9. 

  Originally published as a section of Introduction to Literature, this first separate publication retained the original pagination.  The author of this work, as a poet, evinced more evidence of students learning to understand the fun of poetry than of learning the rigidity of poetical forms.  And, despite statements seemingling to the contrary, understanding the meaning of the poem in its use of symbols and other literary forms and how the forms are effective, is the ultimate goal of the book.  Thus this becomes an enjoyable exploration of how to express meaning.  See the beginning of chapter 3 for his main elucidation about symbols.  Concludes with a 6-page index of authors and titles. 

    Cirlot, J. E. (Juan Eduardo).  A Dictionary of Symbols, 2nd ed.  Translated by Jack Sage from Diccionario de Símbolos Tradicionales.  New York:  Philosophical Library, 1971.  419 pp.; 0-8022-2083-5.    [HK252] BF1623.S9C513 1971b.  §: 2, 4.

  In his 45 page "Introduction," Cirlot does an admirable job of covering the spectrum of symbolism, especially in the historical, psychological, and artistic aspects.  The entries themselves, arranged in alphabetical order, range in length from a few lines to many pages.  Unfortunately, the entries are without any attempt at cross-referencing.  Within the entries, as well as the Introduction, all citations are by number (within parentheses) to the list in the "Bibliography of Principle sources," which is followed by a more extensive (12 pages) "Additional Bibliography."  Both bibliographies are arranged by main entry; only the first is also numbered, albeit at the end of the bibliographic citation, so it does not interfere with perusal.  The 19-page index is very valuable, and does include some cross-referencing; several of the index entries are complex and analytical, thus improving the value of the index and making it essential for the use of this source.  Because of this latter, especially in light the lack of cross-referencing within the dictionary entries, this work should probably be considered an encyclopedia rather than dictionary.  This work does include both b&w plates and smaller, individual graphics. 

    Clift, Jean Dalby, and Clift, Wallace B.  The Archetype of Pilgrimage:  Outer Action with Inner Meaning.  Mahwah, N.J.:  Paulist Press, 1996.  182pp., 0-8091-3599-X.    BL619.P5C57 1996.   §: 5, 6, 8.

  A study of pilgrims and their pilgrimages, from ancient times to modern, both religious and secular.  The two psychologists describe and analyze the meaning of a symbolic ritual for humans.  Includes a number of photographs.  Each chapter is preceded by a vignette, an excerpt of the record of a pilgrim.  Contents:  ONE, Pilgrimage as Archetype; TWO, At all Times and in all Places; THREE, Why People Go; FOUR, Some Common Motifs of Pilgrimage; FIVE, Secular and Patriotic Pilgrimages; SIX, The Shadow Side of Pilgrimage; SEVEN, Pilgrimage Motifs in Dreams; EIGHT, The Quest for Meaning.  Includes a "Notes" section but no bibliography.  Concludes with a 7-page index. 

    Cooper, J. C.  An Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Traditional Symbols;  London:  Thames & Hudson, 1978.  208 pp.    BL603 .C66.  §: 2.

  A straight-forward dictionary of symbols and related terms, with 210 illustrations.  Includes a separate glossary and bibliography.  The introduction in this book forms a splendid introduction to the study of symbolism in general and its application to life.

    ______________.  Symbolic and Mythological Animals.  London:  Aquarian/Thorsons, 1992.  267pp., 1-85538-118-4.    GR820.C66 1992.  §: 2. 

  This is a dictionary of mythological creatures as well as mythological and iconic representations of real animals.  The book is arranged in a straight alphabetical order, with cross references in bold.  Numerous authorities, both ancient and modern, are mentioned within definitions.  The text is followed by an annotated list of classical and medieval authorities, then a 5-page bibliography. 

    Cotterell, Arthur.  A Dictionary of World Mythology.  New York:  Perigee Books, 1982 (paperback); New York:  Putnam, 1979.  256 pp.; 0-399-50619-5.    [PK106] BL303.C66 1980.  §: 2.

  A small but very broad dictionary of world mythologies.  After the introduction, "The Meaning of Myth," the dictionary entries are arranged geographically into seven categories, then alphabetically within each geographical category.  Includes a limited bibliography separated by the same geographical categories and a very limited index, primarily by proper names, with no subject indexing, unfortunately.

    Craig, Robert D.  Dictionary of Polynesian Mythology.  New York:  Greenwood Press, 1989.  409pp., 0-313-25890-2.  BL2620.P6C7.  §: 2. 

  In creating his dictionary, Robert Craig provides a detailed "Introduction," including both linguistic and cultural information.  His 19-page bibliography of sources precedes the actual dictionary.  The dictionary contains mainly brief entries for the various gods and goddesses, with a few major figures requiring greater detail.  There are also a limited number of subject entries, for instance, "Sharks" or "Cannibalism."  Each entry concludes with citations to sources.  After the body of the dictionary is a list of deities by category, followed by a 71-page index, with each entry including a brief description.  This is an extremely thorough dictionary of the Pacific islanders' mythology.

    __________________.  Handbook of Polynesian Mythology.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC Clio, 2004; "Handbooks of World Mythology" series.  353pp., 1-57607-894-9.    BL2620.P6C72 2004.  §: 5. 

  Published 20 years after his more complete and more scholarly (by the author's defintions) dictionary, this handbook generally follows the pattern of the other handbooks in ABC Clio's series.  The "Introduction" provides the background for culture, language, and history of the region.  The second chapter, "Creation and the Cosmos," concentrates on the creation stories of the individual islands/groups, followed by general characteristics of cosmology and deities for the region.  Then follows, Chapter 3, titled, "Deities, Themes, and Concepts."  This section tends more toward the encyclpedic in the approach of its articles, with each article having an entry, the cultural location, the text of the article, "see also" references, and concluded by sources for additional information.  In this volume, the annotated print sources are in Chapter 4 and the web sites in Chapter 5.  The volume is finished with a glossary, a 24-page index, and a brief background of the author. 

    Csapo, Eric.  Theories of Mythology.  Malden, MA:  Blackwell Publishing, 2005.  338pp., 0-631-23248-6.  BL304.C79 2995.  §: 5. 

  In his attempt to create a survey textbook for theories of mythology, Csapo brings a critical and, at times, biased perspective to the table.  The chapters discuss most people who have contributed to the development of the theories of myth and/or mythology during the 20th century.  Contents:  1. Introducing "Myth";  2. Comparative Approaches;  3. Psychology;  4. Ritual Theories;  5. Structuralism;  6. Ideology;  Epilogue.  Following the text is a bibliographic essay, titled, "A Little Further Reading," which appears a bit broader and less biased than the text and keyed to the following 8-page general bibliography.  An 8-page index concludes the book. 

          Da  Di  Do  Dr  Dy 

•   Dallapiccola, Anna L.  Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend.  London:  Thames & Hudson, 2002.  224pp., 0-500-51088-1.    BL1105.D34 2002.  §: 2. 
  ANNOTE

    Daniels, Cora Linn, and Stevans, C.M.  Encyclopædia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences of the World.  Detroit:  Gale Research Co, 1971; reprint of original edition, Chicago:  J. H. Yewdale and Sons, 1903.  3 vols., 1751.  pp.  BF1407.D35 1903a.  §: 2, 7.

  A peculiar compendium of materials organized into 27 chapters.  Some of these chapters are arranged by alphabetical entries, while other chapters are literally compendiums of statements and anecdotes.  It does include a number of reprinted plates, albeit limited.  The 23 page index is probably the best approach to using this source, although it is far from complete.  For instance, look up "Tarot" and you find "Tarot's Fool," which directs the reader to a list of the character of days of the moon, related to various Tarot major arcana; to find the meanings of the cards, per se, you must look under "Card fortune telling," for the entry several hundred pages away from the former. 

    Davidson, Gustav.  A Dictionary of Angels.  New York:  Free Press, 1967.  387pp.    BL477.D3.  §: 2. 

  A dictionary of angelic beings from Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and other Western sources, with some cross-references within the definitions.  Includes in the appendices many different categories and which angels fit in with which.  The book concludes with a 25-page bibliography, but no index. 

    Davis, John J.  Biblical Numerology:  A Basic Study of Numbers Used in the Bible.  Grand Rapids, MI:  Baker Book House, 1968.  174pp, 978-0-8010-2813-7.  [PR304] BS680.N8D3.  §: 6.

  A classic study of how numbers are used within the Bible, balancing the literal and symbolical uses thereof.  The study begins with the forms of numbers (using alphabetical letters for numerals) then proceeds to different styles of using numbers and different purposes.  Contents:  1. Introduction; 2. The Structure and Syntax of Biblical Numbers; 3. The Conventional Use of Numbers; 4. The Rhetorical Use of Numbers; 5. The Symbolic Use of Numbers; 6. The Mystical Use of Numbers; 7. Summary and Conclusions.  Includes an 11-page bibliography and 6 pages of topical and scriptural indexes. 

    Dictionary of Biblical Imagery.  Leland Ryken, James C. Wilhoit, and Tremper Longman III, general editors.  Downers Grove, IL:  IVP Academic, 1998.  1058pp, 978-0-8308-1451-0.  [HR197] BS537.D48 1998.  §: 2, 6.  

  Despite its unsigned articles (the result of the editors reworking and expanding so many; a full list of contributors is included), this dictionary provides a unique and fascinating source of interpreting imagery, from cultural customs to archetypal symbols.  The Introduction provides a good orientation to the terms and categories of imagery, including a table of archetype categories with examples.  Cross references are included throughout the articles with asterisks.  Further, many entries are followed by "see also" references, as well as by brief bibliographies.  For minor terms, there are "see" references from unused terms or terms included in larger entries to the term within which they are discussed.  As would be expected, all articles contain many citations to biblical passages, but many articles also refer to classical writings as well as other literature, by way of comparisons and examples.  Not all the entries would be obvious; for example, see the "Cheat the Oracle" entry for an interesting discussion of this story type in classical literature as well as in the Bible.  A few, rare articles have b&w drawings.  The articles often begin by describing the item in its cultural context, then categorizing its applications in imagery, as well as the interpretations.  Following the body of the dictionary are an index to scripture passages and a 35-page subject index (with main entry pages bolded.)

    Dixon, Roland B.  See:  The Mythology of All Races, vol. 9, Oceanic.

    Dixon-Kennedy, Mike.  Encyclopedia of Russian & Slavic Myth and Legend.  Santa Barbara, CA:  ABC Clio, 1998.  375pp., 1-57607-063-8.    BL930.D58 1998.  §: 2, 5. 

  This is a selective encyclopedia of myths and legends of the inhabitants of the Russian empire and related Slavic peoples, presented in dicitonary format.  The book begins with a preface, a section titled "How to use this book," and "Brief Historical and Anthropological Details."  Following the body of the encyclopedia is a 4-page bibliography, several appendices, a "Topic Finder," and a 23-page index.  The articles in the encyclopedia each have an entry name, the culture/country, a narrative/description, "see also" references, and source references.  The narratives do have some peculiarities:  The author interprets fathoms as being 8 feet in length rather than the standard 6, yet does not mention this being a cultural translation of some Slavic term, including in his list of terms both in the prefatory materials and in the appendices.  Then there is the presumption that any myth having similarity with a portion of the Arthurian legends must have been influenced thereby through the agency of the Romans.  Nonetheless, the cross-referencing is extensive, yet, by being listed after the text of the article, does not interfere with reading.  Some articles are detailed narratives, others are very abbreviated definitions.  This unevenness is possibly the result of being, in the author's description, a pioneering volume (in English, at least.) 

    Doty, William G., ed.  See:  Eliade, Mircea.  Myths, Rites, Symbols:  A Mircea Eliade Reader, edited by Wendell C. Beane and William G. Doty. 

    Drury, Nevill.  Dictionary of Mysticism and the Occult.  San Francisco:  Harper & Row, 1985.  281pp., 0-06-062093-5.  BF1407.D78 1985.  §: 2.

  A straightforward dictionary, with no introduction or foreward, neither bibliography nor index. 

    Dyer, Donald R.  Cross-Currents of Jungian Thought:  An Annotated Bibliography.  Boston:  Shambhala, 1991.  491pp.; 0-87773-904-8.  BF109.J8D93 1991.  §: 8.

  Itself an annotated bibliography of Jungian literature, this work is mainly a categorized bibliography of writings.  While section 7, "Symbolic Life and Dreams," is the most relevant to symbolism, given the nature of Jung's work and analytical psychology, there are also relevant titles in most other sections.  Contents of Part One:  1.  The Life of C. G. Jung; 2.  Collections of Jung's Writings; 3.  Jung's Psychology; 4.  The Psyche; 5.  Psychological Types; 6.  Human Development and Individuation; 7.  Symbolic Life and Dreams; 8.  Feminine and Masculine Psychology; 9.  Religion and Jung's Psychology; 10.  Creativity and Jung's Psychology; 11.  Jungian Analysis; 12.  Civilization in Transition.  Parts Two and Three are indexes to works in the above categories by Author and Title (or key words.) 

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