About this book
Myths and Myth-Makers: Old Tales and Superstitions Interpreted by Comparative Mythology by John Fiske invites listeners into a lively investigation of the stories that shape belief, art, and culture. Fiske, a 19th‑century historian and popularizer of comparative mythology, gathers essays that trace how ancient myths, folk legends, and local superstitions reflect human attempts to explain nature, society, and the sacred.
Drawing on the work of Grimm, Müller, and Tylor while deliberately avoiding dense philological detail, Fiske offers readable interpretations of myths from Europe and beyond—examining gods and heroes, fairy tales, werewolves and water‑spirits, and the symbolic roots of ritual and custom. His method blends historical context with cultural analysis, showing how religion, myths/legends, and art intersect to produce enduring images and practices. The tone is scholarly yet accessible, aiming to awaken curiosity rather than settle every academic debate.
Ideal for listeners who love folklore, religious history, or cultural criticism, this audiobook is a gateway to comparative mythology and a spirited companion for anyone curious about where our oldest stories come from and why they still matter.
