Description
Book SynopsisThis new edition introduces the core elements of ancient Greek and Roman narratives about immortal gods and heroic humans. It explains how myths once shaped ancient ways of thinking, and how they have fascinated and inspired artists, writers, musicians, scientists, and scholars since.
In six clear and concise chapters, this book explains what myths are, sketches the main stories about divinities, heroes and heroines, and explores through specific case studies the ways in which they influenced modern culture, from Renaissance opera to contemporary video games and social movements. The second edition also features a new chapter analyzing how myths have been used in politics from antiquity to the present day. More than two dozen illustrations, maps, and charts complement the text. No prior knowledge of mythology is assumed, and the book incorporates the latest scholarship on classical mythology, providing annotated lists of further readings.
Anyone who has encountered Greek
Trade Review
Praise for the first edition: "This excellent book, by Stanford classicist Richard Martin, gives a packed yet pellucid overview of Greek and Roman mythology.... Managing in addition to find space to discuss the appearance of ancient myths in a host of modern media, Martin offers a superb presentation of classical mythology." (https://readingreligion.org/books/classical-mythology)
Robert A. Segal, Professor and Sixth Century Chair in Religious Studies, University of Aberdeen, UK.
Table of Contents1. Stories that stay, 2. Talking of gods, 3. Heroic dimensions, 4. Interpreting myths--symbols and societies, 5. Myths, media, memories, 6. Myth, politics, and the present.
