Encyclopedia Of Dragons & Mythical Creatures

For centuries we have been fascinated with dragons and mythical creatures. Discover the stories behind our best loved and scariest mythological and literary beast, from Smaug in The Hobbit to the Minotaur and many more... Although stories of these creatures date back to the earliest history of humanity, they are no less fascinating or popular today as a steady stream of books, games, movies, television shows, and other media revisit their stories and reinterpret the myths. But what lies behind these myths and legends? In the Encyclopedia of Dragons & Mythical Creatures, discover the fascinating tales behind the most formidable mythical beasts ever imagined. Did these bizarre animals once exist in ancient times, inspiring the accounts and stories that have kept them alive? Or do these creatures large and small reflect the characteristics of the cultures in which they were created? If you have a love for the myths and want to learn about the unique beasts that dwell within them, this book is a great way to do it. Not only will you learn about ones you may have never heard of, but you will also be able to draw parallels between cultures and see how they interpreted their surroundings through stories of mythical creatures and magical beasts. The Encyclopedia of Dragons & Mythical Creatures is a beautifully decorated volume packed with stunning images and full of fascinating tales. AUTHOR: Alastair Horne is a lecturer in Publishing Studies at the University of Stirling, in Scotland. The author of several books, including Graveyards, Abandoned Scotland, Graves of the Great and Famous, Paris: City of Light, and London: Treasured Capital of the United Kingdom he is currently completing a doctorate on how smartphones are changing storytelling, and a novel set in an unnamed Parisian cemetery in the early twentieth century. SELLING POINTS: . An enchanting insight into beloved and fearsome magical creatures . Each entry has their origin story, a locator map and illustrations . A fascinating bestiary of creatures packed with interesting facts and cultural references 300 artworks, photos & maps