This is an authoritative presentation and discussion of the most basic thematic elements universally found in folklore and literature. The reference provides a detailed analysis of the most common archetypes or motifs found in the folklore of selected communities around the world. Each entry is written by a noted authority in the field, and includes accompanying reference citations. Entries are keyed to the Motif-Index of Folk Literature by Stith Thompson and grouped according to that Index's scheme. The reference also includes an introductory essay on the concepts of archetypes and motifs...

An authoritative source of rich, structured data for both the general public and linguistic experts. Each of the 191 chapters is written by an expert and devoted to a single language. Three indexes are included for cross reference: Language by Country, Language by Family, Language by Alternate Names. Entry Headings include: Language Name, Location, Family, Related Languages, Dialects, Number of Speakers, Origin and History, Orthography and Basic Phonology, Basic Morphology, Basic Syntax, Contact with Other Languages, Common Words, Selected Bibliography, and Efforts to Preserve, Protect, and...