Description
Book SynopsisExploring Greek Myth offers an extensive discussion of variant forms of myths and lesser-known stories, including important local myths and local versions of PanHellenic myths. Clark also discusses approaches to understanding myths, allowing students to gain an appreciation of the variety in one volume.
Trade Review“This volume admirably achieves Clark’s goal of bridging “the gap between the introductory books and the scholarly studies. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates and above; general readers.” (Choice, 1 October 2012)
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations vii
Preface ix
Acknowledgments xiii
Chapter One: The Knife Did It 1
Definitions and Characteristics for the Study of Myth
Chapter Two: Six Hundred Gods 15
Greek Myth and Greek Religion
Chapter Three: Homer’s Beauty Pageant 30
The Traditions of Myth
Chapter Four: Pelops’ Shoulder 43
Sources for the Study of Myth
Chapter Five: Ikaros’ Wings, Aktaion’s Dogs 54
Myth and Meaning
Chapter Six: The Bones of Orestes 68
Heroes in Myth and Society
Chapter Seven: Born from the Earth 80
Founders of Cities and Families
Chapter Eight: The Judgment of Paris 97
Comparative Myth
Chapter Nine: Boys in Dresses, Brides with Beards 111
Myth and Gender
Chapter Ten: Agamemnon’s Mask? 126
Myth and History
Chapter Eleven: Orestes on Trial 140
Myth and Thought
Chapter Twelve: Plato and the Poets 154
Philosophy and Myth
Chapter Thirteen: Conclusion 168
Notes 171
References 179
Index 187
