Encyclopedia of Russian and Slavic Myth and Legend (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781576070635)

This volume offers the first comprehensive guide in English to the myth and legend of the Russian Empire and other Slavic countries and peoples.

There are few stories more stirring than those of ancient Russia. Russian and other Slavic beliefs weave a rich tapestry in which real-world elements coexist with those from fantasy, such as dragons, monsters, and shape-changing wolves. Though Russia adopted Christianity as the state religion in A.D. 988, paganism remained popular through the end of the 19th century and survives in isolated pockets even today. In Russian myth and legend, Christian themes are interwoven with pagan ideas: dragons fight priests, saints encounter nymphs, and witches enter the kingdom of heaven.

Encyclopedia of Russian and Slavic Myth and Legend includes extensive historical, geographical, and biographical background to deepen the reader's understanding of the myth and legend. Numerous illustrations are included in this fascinating volume, which will be of great interest to students, scholars, and everyone who wishes to explore the cultural heritage of ancient Russia.

Author: Mike Dixon-Kennedy
ISBN-10: 1576070638
ISBN-13: 9781576070635
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Language: English
Published: 12/08/1998
Pages: 392
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 2.15lbs
Size: 10.32h x 7.32w x 1.30d

Review Citation(s):
Booklist 02/15/1999 pg. 1088
School Library Journal 08/01/1999 pg. 182
American Reference Bks Annual 01/01/2000 pg. 533