Theories of Mythology provides students with both a history of theories of myth and a practical 'how--to' guide to interpreting myth, the most elementary form of narrative. * Both a history of theories of myth and a practical 'how--to' guide to interpreting myth. * Introduces the major theories of myth from the nineteenth century to the present day. * Covers comparative approaches, psychoanalysis, ritual theories of myth, structuralism, and ideological analysis. * Supplies readers with the theoretical tools for imitating each method. * Features detailed exemplary readings of familiar myths.