Folk Tales From Tibet

Folk Tales from Tibet is a collection of some of the most exquisite stories from Tibet recorded by Captain W. F. O'Connor. These tales were collected during his tenure as secretary and interpreter with the Lhasa Mission of 1904. They were compiled at a time when the western world knew little or nothing about this mystical and exotic country. Hidden high up in the trans Himalayan Plateau Tibet separates two of the most ancient cultures namely China and India. Both have played a big part in its development. The introduction of Buddhism from India changed the life styles and beliefs of the Tibetan people and helped them to develop into a highly conscious Buddhist society. Still its Bon Po origins and traditions are evident in the Buddhist way of life. This is clearly reflected in the psyche of the Tibetan peoples. It is also perceptible whilst reading these stories. Carefully selected these tales give a complete picture of the life and styles of the Tibetan peoples of the times. Like all folk tales they are very representative of the cultures that they attempt to portray. Even though most of the tales according to the author find their origins in both India and China they have been moulded by time to be representative of the Tibetan culture as well. With the addition of some Tibetan love songs and poetry this volume provides excellent reading for all.