Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths (4th Edition)

By Eva M. Thury & Margaret K. Devinney

Introduction to Mythology: Contemporary Approaches to Classical and World Myths, Fourth Edition, is a widely adopted textbook that examines myth from literary, anthropological, psychological, and cultural perspectives. Published by Oxford University Press, this comprehensive text explores classical myths alongside global mythological traditions.

The 4th Edition integrates updated scholarship, contemporary interpretations, and expanded coverage of world mythologies. It encourages students to analyze myths not only as ancient stories but as dynamic cultural narratives that continue to shape art, literature, and society.

What This Book Does

This book equips students with analytical tools to understand myth as a cultural and literary phenomenon, comparing classical Greek and Roman myths with myths from diverse world traditions.

Key Features of the 4th Edition

• Balanced coverage of classical and global mythologies
• Contemporary interpretive approaches to myth
• Connections to literature, art, and modern culture
• Interdisciplinary perspectives including anthropology and psychology
• Engaging discussion questions and critical analysis tools

Who Should Use This Book?

• Undergraduate students in mythology and literature courses
• Classics and humanities majors
• Students of comparative religion and cultural studies
• Faculty teaching world mythology
• Academic libraries

Why It’s Essential

• Widely adopted mythology textbook
• Combines classical scholarship with modern perspectives
• Encourages cross-cultural comparison
• Accessible and academically rigorous

A comprehensive and engaging introduction to world mythology.
Order today from BooksGoat and explore myths through a contemporary lens.

Product Details

• ISBN-13: 9780190262983
• Edition: 4th
• Authors: Eva M. Thury; Margaret K. Devinney
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Format: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Availability: In Stock
• Price: $— (Free Shipping)

Table of Contents (Highlights)

• Defining and Interpreting Myth
• Greek and Roman Mythology
• Near Eastern and Egyptian Myths
• Asian, African, and Indigenous Traditions
• Myth in Modern Literature and Media
• Comparative and Cultural Analysis

FAQs

• Does this cover only Greek mythology?
  No. It includes classical and global mythological traditions.
• Is this suitable for introductory courses?
  Yes. It is widely used in undergraduate mythology courses.
• Does it include modern interpretations?
  Yes. The book connects myth to contemporary culture and scholarship.