The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe: Myths and Cult Images

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University of California Press, 2007 - History - 304 pages
European civilization between 6500 and 3500 BC long before Greek or Judaeo-Christian civilizations flourished had a distinct culture with its own unique identity. The mythical imagery of this era tells us much about early humanity's concept of the cosmos, of human relations with nature, of the complementary roles of male and female. Through study of sculpture, vases and other cult objects, Gimbutas sketches the village culture that evolved there before it was overwhelmed by the patriarchal Indo-Europeans. The Goddess incarnating the creative principle as Source and Giver of All, fertility images, mythical animals and other artifacts are analysed for their mythic and social significance in this beautifully illustrated study.
 

Contents

Preface to new edition
9
Cultural Background
17
Schematicism
37
Ritual Costume
44
Mens costume
51
The Mask
57
Shrines and the Role of Figurines
67
VOTIVE OFFERINGS INSCRIBED FIGURINES VESSELS SPINDLE
85
Copyright

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About the author (2007)

Marija Gimbutas (1921-1994) was Professor of European Archaeology at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Curator of Old World Archaeology at what is now the Fowler Museum of Cultural History. She was the author of many books including The Living Goddesses (UC Press).

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