Mythical Zoo: Animals in Myth, Legend, and Literature

Mythical Zoo: Animals in Myth, Legend, and Literature
ISBN-10
146831646X
ISBN-13
9781468316469
Category
Nature
Pages
392
Language
English
Published
2013-11-29
Publisher
Abrams
Author
Boria Sax

Description

Sacred cows, wily serpents, fearsome lions, elegant swans, busy bees, and sly foxes--all are caricatures of the creatures themselves, yet they reflect not only how different cultures see the natural world around them but also how such cultures make use of their native animals. In this fun and thought-provoking book, historian and animal enthusiast Boria Sax argues for a classification of animals that goes beyond the biological to encompass a more meaningful distinction: tradition. From ants and elephants to tigers and tortoises, The Mythical Zoo weaves together a crosscultural tapestry encompassing mythology, history, art, science, philosophy, and literature. The result is a beautifully illustrated, masterfully composed love letter to the animal kingdom.

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