A quirky guide to myths and lore based in actual science

Natural events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, eclipses, and meteor showers have shaped life on Earth for millennia. In the absence of scientific understanding, ancient civilizations often turned to myths and legends to explain these phenomena. A growing field of research is dedicated to linking these age-old stories with the real natural events that inspired them. Folklorist and historian Adrienne Mayor has compiled a captivating resource titled "Mythopedia: A Brief Compendium of Natural History Lore." This work delves into an array of intriguing topics, from dry quicksand and rainstorms of frogs to burning lakes, paleoburrows, and the Scandinavian tales of endless winters. Mayor's research crosses various disciplines, with a significant focus on geomythology. This term was introduced by Indiana University geologist Dorothy Vitaliano in 1968, who investigated classical legends surrounding lost civilizations, such as Atlantis, that met their demise due to natural disasters. Vitaliano's exploration culminated in her 1973 publication, "Legends of the Earth: Their Geologic Origins." Mayor's journey into this field began when she stumbled upon ancient Greek and Roman accounts of fossils, sparking a broader interest in the intersection of folklore and natural science. Her previous works, including "The Poison King: The Life and Legend of Mithradates, Rome’s Deadliest Enemy" and "Greek Fire, Poison Arrows, & the Scorpion Bombs," examined the origins of biological and chemical warfare. In her 2018 book, "Gods and Robots: Myths, Machines, and Ancient Dreams of Technology," Mayor explored ancient myths about automation and artificial life, connecting these narratives to the remarkable mechanical inventions of the time. When approached by her editor at Princeton University Press to write about geomythology, she chose an encyclopedia format, aligning with an existing series dedicated to nature. "This book encompasses more than just Greek and Roman antiquity," Mayor explained. "I have amassed extensive research on geomyths globally, including some contemporary examples. Readers can engage with specific topics of interest and revisit others that may initially seem less intriguing but are equally captivating."