In this groundbreaking work, Hartland explores the origins and evolution of the human family, focusing on the myths and rituals that have shaped our understanding of reproduction and lineage through the ages. Drawing on a vast array of ethnographic and historical sources, he offers a compelling account of the various ways in which societies have grappled with the challenges of childbirth, parenthood, and inheritance, and how these struggles have given rise to some of our most enduring myths and legends. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of human sexuality and the formation of social institutions.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.