Myths of Southeast Asia

Once upon a time, when seven suns and seven moons shone in the sky, and people did not die but only shed their old skin like snakes, fish were caught by themselves, and handfuls of rice were enough to feed a whole family… This book invites you to take a journey into those blessed times and get acquainted with the myths, legends, and some vibrant traditions of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other countries of Southeast Asia – one of the most colorful corners of the planet. You will learn how the god Lumawig populated the earth with people from stalks of cane, how the first monkeys appeared from two mischievous boys, how chameleons annoyed people, and since when dogs could see the dead. You will also get to know the key heroes of local legends: the giant bird Garuda, depicted on the coats of arms of Thailand and Indonesia, the Filipino creator god Mahal Makaakao, the Vietnamese dragon Lac Long Quan, and many others.