Full Description
Robert Wood Williamson (1856-1932) was a British solicitor and anthropologist who worked extensively in New Guinea and Polynesia. Originally published in 1933, this book forms one of two volumes by Williamson on the religious, mythical and cosmic structures of Central Polynesia. The work was unfinished at the time of Williamson's death, but it was considered near enough completion to be published posthumously in its final form. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the development of anthropology and the religious cultures of Polynesia.
Contents
Bibliography and abbreviations; General reference map; 1. Myths of creation; 2. Myths of creation (creation by gods, and observations); 3. The sky; 4. The sun and moon; 5. The stars; 6. The winds; 7. Months and seasons; 8. The days; 9. Conceptions of the soul and other things; 10. The soul during life; 11. Some death customs; 12. The soul after death (preliminary); 13. The soul after death (Samoa); 14. The soul after death (Tonga); 15. The soul after death (Society Islands).
