The Starlore Handbook: An Essential Guide to the Night Sky

by Geoffrey Cornelius

A dream come true for stargazers and all who have stood in awe of the night sky, The Star Lore Handbook is a complete, fully illustrated guide to identifying the eighty-eight recognized constellations and the principal stars that comprise them. Deftly weaving together astronomy, myth, and symbolism, author Geoffrey Cornelius tours the rich heritage of the stars and planets -- from meteors and orbits to astrology, moon worship, and astral tales of love and tragedy. Including a quick-reference table that lets beginners spot major constellations right away, this unique companion introduces not only modern scientific knowledge, but also the beliefs and folklore of Ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China, medieval and Renaissance Europe, and Central and Native America. Wonderfully illustrated with specially commissioned maps and artwork, color photographs, and line drawings, this is an ideal guide to the timeless celestial marvels.

Genres: Astronomy, Nonfiction, Science, Astrology, Mythology, Nature, Reference

176 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1997

Reviews

[Wickie]

Dieses Buch verschafft einen angenehmen Überblick über die zahlreichen mythologischen Geschichten, die es zu JEDEM Sternbild gibt. Besonders gut fand ich, dass es einen einleitenden Teil zur Himmelsmechanik gibt in welchem z.B. der Frühlingspunkt beschrieben wird. Dem übersetzer sind aber wohl einige Fehler unterlaufen, da z.T. der Eindruck erweckt wird, die Milchstrasse (unsere Galaxie) sei ein weit entferntes, von uns getrenntes Himmelsobjekt (so z.B. auf s. 116). Daher nur 3 statt 4 Sterne.

[Amy Bodkin]

It is a bit dry, but it is truly fascinating to read how the stars share stories from around the world that are similar in theme. There were several constellation myths from cultures I had not heard before.

[Aaron Hart]

exactly what it claims to have - pretty simple atlas to navigate the seasonal sky, and good insight into the myths and legends of the stories. one or two pages per constellation