Part of the Oxford People series, Myths & Legends brings together the principal mythologies, legends, and folklore of ancient and modern cultures and explores the relationship that they have with their people and with the major religions of the world.

Rock paintings of the rainbow serpent in Australia date back more than 6,000 years and the legend has been passed down orally for even longer. The Aboriginal dreaming about this mystical being with a kangaroo head and crocodile tail is the personification of fertility and abundance. Its significance to the culture of indigenous Australians is priceless. Whether or not it ever existed is unimportant, as the riches come from the lessons the rainbow serpent teaches about life, death, survival, and love.

This and other ancient legends have assisted the human race in understanding the complex world we live in, even if they have been embellished over the years. This comprehensive study on the myths and legends of the world can be told as bedtime stories or enjoyed as extracurricular reading by those who love history. Myths & Legends is a fascinating book full of tales from all over the world that have been passed down for generations.

John Pemberton is a writer who specializes in ancient and modern folklore. He grew up in Ireland where he became fascinated by Celtic myths and legends. He has since traveled widely, particularly in Central and South America, studying the cultural history of the Aztecs and Incas at the University of Lima in Peru, where he lived for some time. He currently resides in Tintagel, North Cornwall, close to the legendary castle of King Arthur.