66 pages • 2 hours read
James George FrazerThe Golden Bough: A Study in Comparative Religion
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1890A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Golden Bough by James George Frazer is an anthropological work exploring the evolution of human belief systems from magic to religion to science. Frazer examines myths and rituals from diverse cultures, focusing on sacrifices, divinity, and the societal role of priests or shamans. The text covers themes of mysticism, spirituality, and the progression of human thought. Some sections discuss violence, self-sacrifice, and culturally specific rituals.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
James George Frazer’s The Golden Bough is praised for its comprehensive examination of mythology and religion, influencing subsequent anthropology and literature. Critics commend its depth and the breadth of cultural references but note that some theories are outdated and methodologically flawed. Despite these criticisms, it remains a seminal work in comparative mythology.
Who Should Read The Golden Bough?
The ideal reader of The Golden Bough by James George Frazer is an intellectually curious individual passionate about mythology, anthropology, and comparative religion. Comparable to those who enjoy Joseph Campbell's The Hero with a Thousand Faces or Carl Jung's works, this reader seeks to understand the interconnectedness of human beliefs across cultures.