Rivers of Life: or Sources and Streams of the Faiths of Man in All Lands Showing the Evolution of Faiths from the Rudest Symbolisms to the Latest Spiritual Developments Book

This book contains fascinating history I had not been aware of. Written in 1875, it can be challenging reading at times. Nevertheless, the similarities between the various savior figures are remarkable.
At times it seemed the author overreached--unnecessary given the subject matter. And he had a tendency to occupy the bully pulpit at other times, as if reveling in his self-perceived triumph.
The book is worth reading. It's amazing to know how many historical figures were crucified, even between two thieves. Or born on December 25th of a virgin, with wise men bearing gifts having been foretold by the stars. Or descended into hell, only to later ascend into heaven. This and many other similarities add up to make their own case about the nature of shared myth. Perhaps not so much in the Joseph Campbell sense of archetypes, as much as by oral transmission from one society to another. I recommend reading this once at least, for the content if not for the writing.