Old-World Japan: Legends of the Land of the Gods

"Old-World Japan: Legends of the Land of the Gods" by Frank Rinder is a captivating compilation of Japanese myths and legends, probably crafted in the late 1800s, that taps into the deep well of Shinto beliefs and ancient folklore. The collection unfolds with tales of gods, goddesses, and strange beings, likely revealing Rinder's aim to share these traditional narratives with Western readers while keeping their cultural importance. The book starts with creation stories, featuring Izanagi and Izanami, the gods who shaped the islands of Japan and gave birth to other deities, describing a world before order where the heavens and Earth split apart, and divine beings shaped the world. Rinder's storytelling combines history and myth, inviting readers into a world where Japanese gods influence humans.