Symbols
By: Sandra Forty
Publisher: Metro Books
Published: 2008
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 256
ISBN-13: 9781435109155
Subjects: Symbolism; Signs and symbols; Signes et symboles; Symbols
Description: A symbol is a graphic sign for a concept or an object. Symbols date back to cave engravings by prehistoric man--the oldest signs found by archaeologists are of fire, water, earth, sun, and wind. The development of sign structures can be seen in elaborate Egyptian hieroglyphics from around 4000 B.C., while the Greeks later devised a set of symbols in 1000 B.C., including the famous Star of David. Despite the use of alphabets and languages since 2000 B.C., symbols have continued to develop and evolve in every culture. The book looks at the meanings of over 700 of the most commonly recognized signs. The introduction discusses the development and history of symbols and how they are used. The symbols are grouped into categories including ancient cultures (Egypt and the Middle East), early cultures (astrology, magic, runes), politics (the swastika and the peace sign), and science (including symbols for elements and mathematical symbols). Each symbol is accompanied by a discussion of its evolution and meaning(s).--From publisher description.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (page 253) and index.
Table of contents: title: Egypt and the Middle East; title: African symbols; title: Eastern symbols; title: Early culture symbols; title: Astrology, mysticism, and myth; title: Religious symbols; title: Politics and power; title: Symbols from the Western tradition; title: American symbols; title: Scientific and mathematical symbols; title: Modern information symbols.