Planets and Stars in the Myths of Ancient Peoples. The Origins of Astronomy

Throughout his life, the renowned English astrophysicist Joseph Norman Lockyer studied celestial bodies. Among other discoveries, his research resulted in the theory of the astronomical orientation of ancient temple structures. In this book, Lockyer explores the hypothesis that the foundation of cult architecture, myths, legends, and religious rituals lies in human observations of celestial phenomena: the movement of stars, the Sun, and the Moon. First, Lockyer provides an overview of celestial mechanics and the observational methods available to ancient civilizations, then he elaborates on his conclusions regarding the origins of gods and cults of peoples, their customs, and also offers his dating of the reigns of kings and the construction of temples.