Mythical and Fabulous Creatures: A Source Book and Research Guide

by Malcolm South

This serious, scholarly treatment of 20 imaginary beings, from dragon and phoenix to giants and fairies, discusses the origin of each as an idea, its symbolism and lore, and its appearances in art, literature, or film. . . . Extensive bibliographies follow the generally ambitious and erudite essays while a final catch-all article and selective bibliography cover still more ground, at a gallop. . . . [There] are a number of thoughtful and well-written interpretive investigations into the nature and history of some persistent types. Entries on the Basilisk, Harpies, Medusa, and the Sphinx are particularly here one feels that the mystery and power of these imaginative creatures is not vitiated by scholarly taxidermy. Library Journal

[This] book provides thorough documentation of the best-known creatures of fantasy with a breadth of coverage that is both impressive and delightful. Recommended for all libraries supporting research in mythology, fantasy, folklore, or popular culture. Choice

Genres: Mythology, Nonfiction, Research, Reference, Monsters

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1987

Reviews

[R. J. · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really tried with this one but I got about half way through and just don't want to force myself to read it anymore. It is deadly dull and wasn't quite what I was looking for. I wanted information on mythical animals, what they were, appearance, abilities, characteristics etc. This book had a little bit of that but most of it was tracing the appearance of the creature in literature/panting through time, or how it was used as a symbol for this or that, which I don't really care about. I think I'll give up and try to find a book that has more of what I'm looking for.