Myths and Legends of India

by J.M. Macfie

Classic collection of folklore, legends, religious and culture themes. used widely as an introduction to India, text

Genres: Nonfiction, Mythology, India, Religion

352 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1993

Reviews

[Ensiform · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book told many tales from the Puranas, the Ramayana and mostly the Mahabarata. I remembered quite a few from my readings of the two latter, but many were new to me. The trouble is that, although the author takes a lot of pride in his supposed impartiality and fairness in depicting Hinduism's strengths as well as weaknesses, he takes quite a racist or at least a haughty, pedantic view in his descriptions, calling – for example – the presence of Shiva lingams "revolting and obscene"; calling Indian thought "arrested"; claiming that India's caste system constitutes "the most rigorous and cruel" color bar in history (a dubious claim, perhaps); and just generally adopting a mocking tone when describing inconsistencies in the stories and so on. But they are told well and I enjoyed the book anyway for the information it contains.

[When Stories Mean Everything · Rating 3 out of 5]

An intriguing but flawed introduction to Hinduism: A Personal Review.

The tales of Hindu Gods and heroes were my first stories. My grandmother’s magical storytelling brought these myths to life, while her sister often offered a completely different version. Their lively debates left me confused but deeply fascinated.

Growing up, I lived near a place where the Shiva vs. Vishnu debate was a thing. While the discussions were polite on the surface, I could sense the frustration underneath. (And yes, I "won" one of these debates with another girl by—well—pushing her. 🙈) Back then, I thought there had to be one right answer.

That’s when my mom handed me this book. It was my first book on mythology, and it taught me some crucial lessons. I learnt that myths could have multiple versions, and they could all be true! Shiva, Vishnu, Shakti—each could be supreme, depending on the source. This sparked my lifelong love for mythology and taught me to enjoy the stories instead of arguing over them.

Looking back, however, this book isn’t a true introduction to Hinduism. Macfie relies heavily on translations by foreign authors, and the tone felt dismissive, haughty, and dated. Additionally, the book’s sanitised approach might mislead or frustrate beginners exploring Hindu mythology.

Despite its flaws, the book remains an engaging read with an intriguing selection of myths. For instance, it highlights differing views on women, such as those from Valmiki and Manu, which adds complexity.

For those curious, it’s available on Kindle Unlimited—just read it with a critical eye.

[Ludo-Van · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the edition that I own the subtitle "An Introduction to the Study of Hinduism" is missing from the cover, but that is an important piece of information, as the book is a selection not of myths and legends as in folk tales, but rather as in myths of the post-vedic scriptures. So for me they are myths, for others these might be religious tales.
Mostly the two main messages of the myths are:
1. The world of a Brahmin is command. No matter who you are, you have to submit to the Brahmin
2. Women are so subordinated to men, that their husband is equal to a god

Wow. I doubt any modern Hindu would take these messages seriously, but they are important if one tries to understand the Hindu religion, the same way as tales from the bible are important to understand Judaism or Christianity.
And yes certain tales are quite humoristic

[cks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing book, very nice way of putting the stories together..
i still remember my mother used to tell these stories when i was a child...
as a child I enjoyed them and now after reading this book I feel these are well put facts!!

[Abhishek · Rating 3 out of 5]

J.M.Macfie deserves a special mention in the successful rendition of the Indian Godly faiths & beliefs, though being a Westerner. The good thing about the book is it being very vastly informative, though certain exaggeration over castes & racism makes you feel a usual western boss over act.