66 pages 2 hours read

James George Frazer

The Golden Bough: A Study in Comparative Religion

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1890

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Golden Bough by James George Frazer is an anthropological work exploring the evolution of human belief systems from magic to religion to science. Frazer examines myths and rituals from diverse cultures, focusing on sacrifices, divinity, and the societal role of priests or shamans. The text covers themes of mysticism, spirituality, and the progression of human thought. Some sections discuss violence, self-sacrifice, and culturally specific rituals.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

James George Frazer’s The Golden Bough is praised for its comprehensive examination of mythology and religion, influencing subsequent anthropology and literature. Critics commend its depth and the breadth of cultural references but note that some theories are outdated and methodologically flawed. Despite these criticisms, it remains a seminal work in comparative mythology.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Golden Bough?

The ideal reader of The Golden Bough by James George Frazer is an intellectually curious individual passionate about mythology, anthropology, and comparative religion. Comparable to those who enjoy Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces or Carl Jung's works, this reader seeks to understand the interconnectedness of human beliefs across cultures.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Life/Time: Mortality & Death

Natural World: Animals

Genre

Fairy Tale / Folklore

Anthropology

Philosophy

Topics

Anthropology

Philosophy

History: World