As students study history, literature, drama, poetry and art, they encounter numerous references to mythical figures and legends from different cultures. Existing encyclopedias focus on specific cultures, such as the classical Greeks, or on themes, such as angels or nature myths. This 4 volume set of Myths and Legends of the World is the first comprehensive source of myths and legends from around the world, encompassing North and South America, Africa and Asia, and the Pacific islands. Whether researching a specific mythical figure, a particular motif, an ethnic group, or looking up a term, this resource is designed for easy access. Illustrated throughout with more than 200 drawings and photos, the set also includes helpful sidebars and extensive backmatter, including genealogy trees that show the relationships between deities, and a subject index -- helpful in tracing similar themes across cultures.