A review by rachel_abby_reads
Don't Know Much about Mythology by Kenneth C. Davis
3.0
This book provides a brief overview of regional history and summaries of the role that religion/belief played in various times, places and cultures. It begins with the Sumerians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, and then includes Goths, Celts, Indians, Chinese, Japanese, and brief forays into myths of African, Islander, and North and South American native tribes globally. To be fair, it's easier to go into more depth into the mythologies that have been recorded.
Davis is quick to highlight similarities between myths that precede Judaism and Christianity. He is also quick to castigate European explorers and missionaries for their interactions with native peoples globally (admittedly, there is lots of room for criticism, especially in light of modern attitudes and standards). He seems to treat the native beliefs of Africa, Islands, and natives more respectfully than those of Christians or Jews. Interesting, and mildly patronizing.
Also, while he might speak slightingly of the possible/probable alterations that Christian monks and priests might have made to pagan myths and legends - if it weren't for their efforts, we might have no record at all of the beliefs of pre-literate societies.
It was interesting and a good introduction and well-sourced for the person that might be interested in doing more reading.
Davis is quick to highlight similarities between myths that precede Judaism and Christianity. He is also quick to castigate European explorers and missionaries for their interactions with native peoples globally (admittedly, there is lots of room for criticism, especially in light of modern attitudes and standards). He seems to treat the native beliefs of Africa, Islands, and natives more respectfully than those of Christians or Jews. Interesting, and mildly patronizing.
Also, while he might speak slightingly of the possible/probable alterations that Christian monks and priests might have made to pagan myths and legends - if it weren't for their efforts, we might have no record at all of the beliefs of pre-literate societies.
It was interesting and a good introduction and well-sourced for the person that might be interested in doing more reading.