Gold has been an intrinsic part of human culture and society throughout the world, both in ancient times and in the modern era. This precious metal has also played a central role in economics and politics throughout history. In fact, the value of gold remains a topic of debate amid the current upheavals of economic conditions and attendant reevaluations of modern financial principles.
The Cultural History of Plants is the most important book published on the spread and exploitation of plants in over a century. Written by acknowledged experts in their fields, this valuable reference will be useful for both scholars and general readers. It is both botanical and cultural, describing the role of plants in social life, regional customs, the arts and natural landscapes. There are over 1000 plant entries in the form of concise histories, 200 maps and 600 black and white illustrations.
Phobias are common, an intrinsic part of growing up. But severe adult phobia contains something intensely irrational - the anxiety at the sight of a bird's feather, the thought of crossing a bridge. Using everyday experience, horror stories, Hitchcock's cinema, and the cultural history of racism, Phobia illuminates the individual and social nightmare world of phobic phenomena.
The Ramayana is one of India's foundational epics, and it demonstrates a continuing power to influence social, religious, cultural, and political life. Brought to textual life in Sanskrit by the legendary "first poet," Valmiki, over the ensuing centuries the tale has been recycled with extraordinary adaptability and diversity through the varied cultural heritages of India and other parts of Asia. The basic tale of the Ramayana is continually adapted to new contexts, forms, and media. It is read, recited, sung, danced, and acted in one form or another, and renewed so constantly by changing times and values that it demands constant revaluation.
A interdisciplinary introduction to American culture, American Cultural Studies examines the tensions that exist within the multifaceted and multicultural mix of American life. Exploring the changing debates throughout the century, specific consideration is given to issues such as race and religion, gender and sexuality, and youth.
