A monumental and systematic study tracing the evolution of the concept of the Devil and demons across all major global mythologies and religions.
First published in 1879, this is the definitive and exhaustive study of the genesis and evolution of the concept of evil across world cultures. The complete work of Moncure Daniel Conway, a prominent scholar of comparative religion and mythology, provides a monumental and systematic examination of the figures of the demon and the devil.
This comprehensive volume meticulously traces the origins of the Devil, documenting the development of the ultimate evil entity from ancient, scattered traditions into a universal figure of malevolence. Conway draws on a vast range of sources to analyse:
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Comparative Mythology: The metamorphosis of Satan from ancient representations--including animal deities, nature spirits, and figures like the Norse Jotnar--into the theological constructs of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
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Global Tradition: Detailed chapters devoted to the demonology of Zoroastrianism, Ancient Egypt, Greek lore, and Buddhist belief, placing Christian tradition within a worldwide context of fear and supernatural influence.
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The Forms of Evil: An examination of demons, witches, vampires, and other malevolent entities, as well as the customs and superstitions developed by societies to appease or repel them.
Demonology and Devil-Lore remains an indispensable, pioneering text for students and researchers in folklore, religious studies, and comparative mythology.
