The Golden Bough

By James George Frazer,

Book cover of The Golden Bough

Book description

Published originally in two volumes in 1890, this extraordinary study of primitive myth and magic, collected from sources around the world, led Frazer to identify parallel patterns of ritual, symbols and belief across many centuries and many different cultures.
Frazer's learning inspired a whole generation of ethnographers and comparative anthropologists,…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked The Golden Bough as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Being a fan of history, mythology, and folklore really drew me to this book. It delves into ancient magic, pagan practices, and other traditions that continue to this day. The book was thoroughly researched and opens a window into mankind’s beliefs and superstitions throughout the ages. The book explores the similarities between different cultures’ creation myths and ritualistic practices as well as Christianity’s appropriation of many pagan holidays, rituals, and locations. Anyone interested in mythology or folklore should definitely have this on their reading list.

Want books like The Golden Bough?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 91 books like The Golden Bough.

Browse books like The Golden Bough

Book cover of The Da Vinci Code
Book cover of The Tomb and Other Tales
Book cover of The Complete Book of Magic and Witchcraft

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,348

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in witchcraft, occult, and Sigmund Freud?

Witchcraft 343 books
Occult 90 books
Sigmund Freud 59 books