A retelling of several important ancient Persian myths, with background information describing the history, geography, belief systems, and customs of the ancient Persians--Provided by publisher.

The magic of myths -- Part I. Meet the ancient Persians ; At the crossroads ; The glories of Persia ; Kings, nobles, and commoners ; The teachings of Zarathustra ; The sacred fire -- Part II. Timeless tales of ancient Persia ; The origins of the world and humans: Ahura Mazda and the good creation ; Tales from the Shahnameh: the first earthly kings ; The golden age: Yima saves the world ; Good triumphs over evil: Zahhak the serpent king ; Mythical creatures: Rostam and his marvelous horse ; The founding of Zoroastrianism: the life of Zarathustra -- Glossary -- Ancient Persian writing and texts -- To find out more -- Selected bibliography -- Notes on quotations -- Index.