The Golden Bough: A Study in Magic and Religion (Third Edition, Vol. 12 of 12)

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

44772

Title

The Golden Bough: A Study in Magic and Religion (Third Edition, Vol. 12 of 12)

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

James George Frazer's monumental final volume concludes his exhaustive study of magic and religion, offering a comprehensive bibliography and index. This scholarly reference work synthesizes global folklore, mythology, and ritual practices, serving as an essential resource for understanding the evolution of human belief systems from ancient times to the modern era.

Summary up to 500 words

The twelfth and final volume of James George Frazer's monumental work, *The Golden Bough*, serves as an indispensable scholarly resource rather than a continuation of the narrative argument found in the preceding eleven volumes. This concluding installment functions primarily as a comprehensive bibliography and general index, meticulously cataloging the hundreds of authorities cited throughout the series. Frazer, a distinguished Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge and Professor of Social Anthropology, compiled this extensive list to assist students and readers in navigating the complex labyrinth of facts, myths, and rituals presented in the main text. The volume covers an immense array of global topics, referencing sources from diverse fields including archaeology, ethnology, mythology, and religious studies. Entries range from specific deities and rituals to geographical locations and cultural practices across the globe, from the ancient Near East to the Americas and Oceania. Frazer expresses his hope that this index will guide students through the intricate subject matter, distinguishing between works he consulted directly and those cited at second hand. The text features a significantly expanded General Index, which incorporates separate indices from earlier volumes and adds substantial entries to ensure uniformity and facilitate the book's use as a reference work. Frazer's dedication to accuracy is evident in his revisions and corrections made during the proof stage. This volume stands as a testament to the sheer scale of Frazer's research and his commitment to providing a thorough, accessible, and enduring scholarly resource for the study of magic and religion. It acknowledges the unwavering support of his publishers and printers over twenty-five years, reflecting the collaborative effort behind this magnum opus.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Mythology