Myths and Legends from Korea: An Annotated Compendium of Ancient and Modern Materials [Paperback]

This book contains 175 tales drawn equally from the ancient and modern periods of Korea, plus 16 further tales provided for comparative purposes. Nothing else on this scale or depth is available in any western language. Three broad classes of material are included: foundation myths of ancient states and clans, ancient folktales and legends, modern folktales. Each narrative contains information on its source and provenance, and on its folklore type, similarities to folklore types from China, Japan and elsewhere.This book contains 175 tales drawn equally from the ancient and modern periods of Korea, plus 16 further tales provided for comparative purposes.

'A welcome addition to the literature. In easily readable translations it brings together a substantial number of tales, some of which are most fascinating. This is material that will induce many readers to study Korean culture more deeply' - Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society

'This impressive collection of Korean folktales and foundation myths is a major addition for studies of Korean folklore and for those who wish to do cross-cultural studies with Korean materials. This volume, compiled and annotated by James Grayson, is quite surely the most authoritative collection of Korean materials translated into English to date and opens up a cornucopia of materials to an English readfing audience.' - Asian Folklore Studies

'A welcome addition to the literature. In easily readable translations it brings together a substantial number of tales, some of which are most fascinating. This is material that will induce many readers to study Korean culture more deeply' - Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society1: Introduction; 2: Foundation Myths; 3: Legends and Tales from the Ancient Period; 4: Folktales from the Modern PeriodUS? 2001 James Huntley Gral1