The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)
by Leonard Shlain

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Book Reviews of The Alphabet Versus the Goddess: The Conflict Between Word and Image (Compass)

Book Review: Think again "
Summary: 5 Stars

Where LS differs though, and significantly, is that he becomes an active observer of history, viewing it through the lenses of an idea, the idea itself being that the spread of alphabetic literacy amongst peoples has always resulted in a decline of the rights and status of women. Sounds bold? This is perhaps the lesser of controversial statements he makes, and the book races from ancient Sumerian civilizations to the present day, with numerous bold hypotheses and interpretations of facts available. Credit goes to the author for frequently pointing out his hypotheses by terms such as "I would like to propose that...", and the reader will come across yet another startling viewpoint backed by selected examples. In fact some of LS's viewpoints are so outrageously unconventional, that ones' own defense mechanism of `credibility' kicks in, and refuses to question beliefs we hold so dear and true.

But therein lies the power of this book, and it arises from the brilliant story-telling which makes the book extremely difficult to put down, once begun. A quick view of the References at the end of the book shows clearly that LS has found his facts in not just feminist literature, but even textbooks and classics such as "The structure of Myth", by Claude Levi-Strauss. The reader needn't agree with LS throughout the book, but the book's brilliance lies in showing the ability and scope needed to reinterpret history with powerful eloquence, and LS succeeds well at that.

Not recommended for people with strong religious beliefs. Highly recommended for readers interested in history, feminism and for non-conventional thinkers, to name a few!!

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