Gods Behaving Badly

Across the world and throughout history, mythological gods have captivated human imagination, embodying both the light and dark sides of existence. While some deities are known for their virtue, many display a striking range of behaviours-some benevolent, others brutal. From acts of kindness and creation to vengeance, deception, and manipulation, these gods reflect the complexities of human nature. In this book, you will meet diverse gods like the African goddess Oshun, who plays a crucial role in the world's creation, and the Polynesian trickster Maui, whose mischievous acts often aim to benefit humanity. Explore the contrasting temperaments of Norse gods, such as the mighty Thor, whose brute strength is wielded with noble intentions, and Loki, a master of cunning and deceit driven by self-interest. Discover the unpredictable use of magic and shapeshifting among these deities-like Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, who frequently transforms into animals or objects, often with dubious motives. A universal theme emerges across these mythologies: a belief in life after death, where rewards or punishments are meted out based on virtue-or in some cases, social standing. While some gods dispense justice, others themselves endure eternal punishments for their transgressions.