Myths of the Peoples of the Caucasus

In the multi-faceted mythology of the peoples of the Caucasus, the features of ancient, Christian, Islamic, Turkic, and Iranian traditions are intricately woven together, and in this cultural melting pot, true masterpieces of folk epic and folklore are born. In... one tale, one can encounter a diva, King Solomon, and the archangel Michael, and this does not surprise anyone. Caucasian mythology idealizes and spiritualizes everything: legendary rulers, national heroes, celestial bodies, mountain peaks, fruit trees, and musical instruments, even diseases. This book invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey through the legendary Caucasus, to get acquainted with the myths and legends of its numerous peoples — Georgians, Armenians, Azerbaijanis, Dagestanis, Ossetians, Lezgins, and many others. You will learn who vishaps and batonobis are, which tree in Armenia bears the fruits of the knowledge of good and evil, and how, according to Azerbaijani legend, the dove became a symbol of peace.