4199 - Classical Hindu Mythology. A Reader in Sanskrit Puranas
Author: Cornelia Dimmitt with J.A.B. van Buitenen
Description: An authoritative anthology of translated myths from the Mahapurāṇas, this volume gathers narratives previously inaccessible in English. It spans creation myths, legendary sages and heroes, tales of rivers and animals, and the origins of gods like Kṛṣṇa, Viṣṇu, Śiva, and the Goddess. With clear introductions, scholarly context, and an extensive glossary, the work preserves Sanskrit names and storytelling depth—offering both literary richness and reliable access to ancient mythic sources.  ⸻ Keywords: Hindu mythology, Mahapurāṇas, Sanskrit myths, creation, Kṛṣṇa, Viṣṇu, Śiva, Goddess traditions, mythic anthology ⸻ Ideal for: Students of religion, mythology, and South Asian culture; readers seeking primary-source myths in translation; scholars requiring contextualized purāṇic material. ⸻ Age: 16 years and up (best suited for mature teens and adults with interest in academic or mythological texts) ⸻ Theme: Cosmic origins, deities and avatars, divine heroes, feminine power, nature and myth, myth as scripture ⸻ Tone: Scholarly yet engaging; respectful of source texts; explanatory and context-rich ⸻ Book Type: Academic anthology; translated primary-source myths; reference text ⸻ Length: Approximately 373–392 pages.