The classically named constellations and stars of the night sky haven’t always been the province of Greek and Roman gods. Ancient peoples around the world have looked up and added their particular myths to the heavens, only to have them subsumed by the Classics as the science of astronomy developed. Dark Land, Dark Skies looks behind the classical sky into past, oral traditions and the stories associated with the changing groups of stars.
Martin Griffiths has written an engaging astronomical guide – for amateurs and professionals alike – with star charts and useful tips on recognition of stars and constellations. To that he adds the folk stories attached to each constellation, to produce a new and subversive exploration of the night sky above us all.