Download or read book The Penguin Handbook of Ancient Religions written by John R. Hinnells and published by Penguin UK. This book was released on 2009-08-27 with total page 585 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This overview of the religious customs of ancient cultures boasts an international selection of contributors, all of whom are leading scholars in their field. The cultural practices of popular as well as formal religion are explored in detail, giving an impression of all, not only elite societies. Every topic is placed in its own cultural context, while bearing in mind its relevance to a wider historical and sociological debate. The result is an erudite and thoroughly readable handbook to ancient religions, from Palaeolithic cave art to the rituals of Aztec and Inca civilizations.