DK Compact Culture Guides – serie

Decode the secrets and uncover the origins and meanings of over 2,000 signs and symbols, from ancient hieroglyphs to modern-day logos.Why is a heart pierced by an arrow a classic symbol of love? What are the ancient roots of fertility symbols? Why are scales a symbol of justice? Delve into the meaning of each symbol and investigate how they have been interpreted in myth, religion, folklore, and art over time, with authoritative text from experts in the field and striking line drawings and photography that emphasize the visual strength and beauty of signs. Divided into six thematic sections - the cosmos, the natural world, human life, myths and religions, society and culture, and symbol systems - this guide to the secret language of signs and symbols is a must-have for those who want to understand the world around them.

Discover the world's greatest myths and legends - from Greek mythology to Norse mythology - in this comprehensive guide.What did Japanese mythology say about the beginning of the Universe? How did Oedipus become the classic tragic hero in Greek mythology? Who brought about the origin of death in Maori mythology? Combining vivid retellings of famous legends with over 1,000 illustrations of characters, famous artworks, and artefacts, Myths and Legends makes it easier than ever before to understand the stories that are central to every culture.Delve into the well-known tales of the ancient Greeks, which hold the key to such phrases as "Achilles' heel", as well as the lesser-known but richly colourful myths of Africa and the Americas. Explore global ideas such as fate and fortune, and the Underworld, and find out about the key characters - heroes, tricksters, and gods - that make up each myth system. Filled with the cultural and religious meanings behind each legend, and the influence they have had both in their own time and in today's world, this book is a must-have for all mythology enthusiasts.

An essential guide to learning everything you need to know about the history, central practices, and the key teachings of many religions. A compelling and insightful guide for uncovering and understanding a variety of the world's major religions. This book will be the perfect gift for thinkers, borrowers, and students of religious studies and philosophy.Learn new and profound information about a variety of faiths. In this educational guide you'll find:- A chapter devoted to each of the major world religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism and Islam - Lesser-known religions and belief systems are covered, offering a comprehensive overview of faith - Detailed illustrations and annotated works of art, and a timeline of religious history Discover a variety of the world's major religions and other faiths from both the ancient and the modern world through this insightful guide. Explore over 450 classic works of religious and devotional art. With sacred texts, epic imagery, key beliefs, and religious artefacts, this educational guide is perfect for libraries, classrooms, and the bookshelves of those who simply love learning.