The Penguin Handbook of Ancient Religions is a vivid guide to ancient cultures and religions from around the world. It examines the development of religious belief from the cave paintings of 40,000 BCE to the discovery of the Aztecs in the sixteenth century. Drawing on the expertise of international contributors, this handbook is an essential reference work for both academic study and general readers. - Describes ancient religions throughout history in depth, including those from the Palaeolithic era, Ancient Greece, China, the Aztecs and Incas, and the Indus civilisation - Provides an account of popular as well as official religions - Outlines the history of each society and shows the religion and culture in context - Includes maps, illustrations and photographs.