First published in 1890, this seminal work of comparative mythology and anthropology influenced generations of scholars and writers with its groundbreaking exploration of the role of religion in human society. Drawing on a wide range of sources from around the world, author Sir James George Frazer offers a compelling argument for the universality of human beliefs and practices related to magic, ritual, and the supernatural. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.