The Mythology of South America

by John Bierhorst

Discusses the mythology from Indians of various regions of South America, describing origins, comparing the similar tales, and presenting some of the myths themselves

Genres: Mythology, Fiction

269 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

About the author

John Bierhorst is the author, editor, or translator of more than thirty books on Native American lore, including Latin American Folktales, The Mythology of South America, The Mythology of North America, and The Mythology of Mexico and Central America.

Reviews

[Mairi · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I've read a fair bit about religion and mythology, this was the first I'd read about South American mythology (or religion). As such, the book provides a good, accessible overview of the mythology of a very large and diverse area. After dividing South America up into 7 regions, the author discusses the prominent types of myths/legends, and briefly gives important or interesting examples from specific tribes.

Because of the broad scope, the book is necessarily lacking in depth for any one tribe, or in detailed retellings of a myth. It does, however, have a thorough reference list for further reading.

As is to be expected from the title, the book deals primarily with mythology, and not religions. Religious practices are discussed only when they appear in myths, or are closely related to them. Some initiatory rites are briefly mentioned, as are some shamanic practices. I would have appreciated more discussion of religion, partly as a way to better provide context for the myths, and also for its own sake.

One minor quibble I had was that the author did not discuss what definition of myth (as distinct from legend or folktale) he was using. He clearly had something in mind, as he does make such distinctions, but he doesn't make it clear. This would've made it slightly easier to follow (and understand what he wasn't including in the book), and would be especially important for a less-informed reader.

(I have no idea if any of this is addressed in later editions; the edition I read is from 1988.)

[Sergiy · Rating 3 out of 5]

great overview of South American myth. It's hard to cover a whole continent, but this book attempts to find and catalog the major myths that are in common between the many disparate groups of people.

I am left hungry for more stories from this enchanting continent.

One star taken off for being more of a textbook than a book of stories, not suitable as light reading. Would probably make a good starting point for an in depth study. contains a long index and listen of sources and references to this end.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yet another in my vast collection of folktale books.