The magic of myths - Part I. Meet the ancient Persians : At the crossroads - The glories of Persia - Kings, nobles, and commoners - The teachings of Zarathustra - The sacred fire - Part II. Timeless tales of ancient Persia : The origins of the world and humans: Ahura Mazda and the good creation - Tales from the Shahnameh: the first earthly kings - The golden age: Yima saves the world - Good triumphs over evil: Zahhak the serpent king - Mythical creatures: Rostam and his marvelous horse - The founding of Zoroastrianism: the life of Zarathustra. "A retelling of several important ancient Persian myths, with background information describing the history, geography, belief systems, and customs of the ancient Persians"-Provided by publisher