ABSTRACT
This is an authoritative presentation and discussion of the most basic thematic elements universally found in folklore and literature. The reference provides a detailed analysis of the most common archetypes or motifs found in the folklore of selected communities around the world. Each entry is written by a noted authority in the field, and includes accompanying reference citations. Entries are keyed to the Motif-Index of Folk Literature by Stith Thompson and grouped according to that Index's scheme. The reference also includes an introductory essay on the concepts of archetypes and motifs and the scholarship associated with them. This is the only book in English on motifs and themes that is completely folklore oriented, deals with motif numbers, and is tied to the Thompson Motif-Index. It includes in-depth examination of such motifs as: Bewitching; Chance and Fate; Choice of Roads; Death or Departure of the Gods; the Double; Ghosts and Other Revenants; the Hero Cycle; Journey to the Otherworld; Magic Invulnerability; Soothsayer; Transformation; Tricksters.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part A|63 pages
Mythological Motifs
part B|36 pages
Mythical Animals
chapter |8 pages
Animal Brides and Grooms: Marriage of Person to Animal
part C|21 pages
Tabu
part D|55 pages
Magic
part E|9 pages
The Dead
part F|36 pages
Marvels
part G|8 pages
Ogres
part H|27 pages
Tests
part J|10 pages
The Wise and the Foolish
part K|24 pages
Deceptions
part L|6 pages
Reversal of Fortune
part M|19 pages
Ordaining the Future
part N|25 pages
Chance and Fate
part P|21 pages
Society
part Q|9 pages
Rewards and Punishments
part R|10 pages
Captives and Fugitives
part S|28 pages
Unnatural Cruelty
part T|25 pages
Sex
part U|8 pages
Nature of Life
part Z|43 pages
Miscellaneous