Author Description

This intriguing encyclopedia provides a comprehensive look at animals in folklore, addressing the most common folklore animals, the primary motifs and themes found in their stories, and the historical and cross-cultural locations ascribed to such tales. A-to-Z entries discuss the meanings of animal folklore and the animals featured in the stories, while connecting the dots between the many cultures that have told these stories through the ages. Because of the important role folklore plays in the socialization of children and the conveying of cultural values, animal tales are also investigated for their role in the continuity of cultural values and beliefs. The volume includes thematic essays, topical entries, and tale excerpts. Each entry also states the method by which it is classified (e.g., Aarne-Thompson-Uther, Perry, etc.) to enable readers to easily find other tales of the same type. Most entries feature a list of further reading for those who desire more information, and a glossary at the end of the book covers the classification of folklore overall. As an added bonus, the volume discusses many of the most important folklore collections in the world.