The Beast Within: A History of the Werewolf

I was trying to find The Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy by Adam Douglas at my university library, but then when I found Douglas Adams The Beast Within instead, I happened upon this gem of a book. Taking a chronlogical approach, Adams traces the origins of the werewolf myth from its abstract beginnings in myths and legends to its common usage in pop culture. Not only did I learn much about the werewolf legend, but also things I never knew about the Salam witch trails, Christianity and their conflict with Paganism and all sort of useful bit of random knowledge. Definately one of my favourite non-fiction books.

This book is essential reading for anyone who likes unconventional history like I do. Adams takes you through examples of lycanthropy in all cultures and all signifigant time periods. No stone is left unturned. He even touches on a chapter on how feral children figure into the myth of the werewolf. Citing mythology, medieval history to current medical cases, this book is a delight to read. I highly recommend this to anyone. Historian and non-historian alike will find it nothing short of fascinating.

It is a shame that this title has gone out of print, whole so many terrible werewolf books remain in print. This mythological/folkloric/sociological study of the relation ship between man and werewolf is one of the most imformative books I've ever read. I am hard pressed to find problems with this book, and I think you would be, too.

I Have Read This Book Two Or Three Times I Learn Something New EvryTime I Suggest EvryOne Read This Book.