The Complete Dictionary of Symbols in Myth, Art and Literature by Jack Tresidder

by Jack Tresidder

The Complete Dictionary of Symbols is an engaging and accessible guide to more than 2,000 major themes, figures, and symbols that are commonly found in myth, art, and literature. Drawing on classical mythologies, Biblical themes, and traditional symbols from cultures worldwide, this user-friendly, attractively priced reference has comprehensive entries on everything from individual animals, plants, and objects to gods, goddesses, supernatural creatures, heroes, heroines, mythical episodes, prophets, saints, miracles, and myriad other subjects. Whether the topic at hand is Mercury or Merlin, the Egyptian ankh or the humble ant, engaging text reveals the origins and meaning of each symbol. Interspersed with the main entries are short articles on themes of special interest, such as the Sun, Moon, and stars, or common vices. Three hundred illustrations, an intuitive system of cross-referencing, and authoritative research make The Complete Dictionary of Symbols a reliable resource for school, home, or library.

Genres: Reference, Mythology, Nonfiction, Art, Religion, Dictionaries, Spirituality

Hardcover

First published April 1, 1998

Reviews

[Steven · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good balance between description and supporting artwork. A starting point, but not a definitive resource for symbols because it lacks references to source texts. Has an index of supplementary words, which at first didn't make sense because this is a dictionary, but after looking up a bunch of the words in the index, it becomes clear that some do not have entries of their own but are only mentioned within the description of another symbol (eg: Pandora's box only shows up under Box, Boxwood).

[Mira Behn · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting reference for psychology students.

[Kathryn Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

I use this book all the time. It is an asset to have if you are an avid lover of symbology, symbolism and/or mythology. It is the most comprehensive book of symbols I have seen thus far. I give this book 4 stars but I am hesitant because I wish it had more pictures. This book deals more with symbolism of ideas, objects, persons, etc. For instance, the book has a great deal of mythological figures ranging from all types of cultures across the world. It gives a short definition of who the figure is and delves into the different symbolic ideas of the person or object. It also explains what different objects represent in different cultures and religions. For example, the text explains what a lion represents in Egyptian, Greek, various African, Asian and European myths and cultures as well as what the lion symbolizes in Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam. This dictionary is not that 'complete.' There were a few items I did not find in this book, but they were more obscure and is understandable since some items could be missed. Either way, I recommend this book to everyone. It is one of my favorite books in my library.

[Troy Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This dictionary has been my go-to reference for all things related to symbology for the past couple of years. This collection of symbols spans multiple religions, cultures and eras of historical significance. Perfect for the casual/curious or the anyone engaged in the academic study of symbols. This book will change the way you perceive and read fiction, if you manage to come across recurring themes/symbols.

[Jonathan Cook · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would rated this book at three or four stars, but when an author titles a book "complete", then an especially high standard must be applied. It is a dangerous suggestion that the symbols described in this book, or the interpretations of them, or anything near complete. That said, this book is a useful beginning for those who wish to explore the nearly infinite range of symbols that humans have been able to create.

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Any literary symbolic reference one could think of is included in this dictionary compiled by journalist Jack Tresidder. The succinct and informative entries prompted me to pick this dictionary up in the first place. Highly recommended for anyone interested in deciphering the nuances of literature.

[G. Fox · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is by no means complete but it is a great jumping off point. Also a good general reference to have around when researching and looking for ideas. I think idea hunting is the best use of this book for me. Sometimes when I'm stuck for an idea I randomly skip to a section of the book and wait to something jumps out at me. From there I take to researching what I find

[Ang~la · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great resource

[Antoine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find myself revisiting this book often as signs in my life are revealed to me...it's a perpetual read.

[John Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book for some quick ideas.

[Babak Jalilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing resource for Symbol and ancient mythology enthusiasts!