Best greek mythology books to read greek mythology is the body of myths and teachings associated with the ancient greeks, concerning their gods and heroes, the nature of the world and origins and significance of their own culture and ritual practices. What are the best books on greek myths for young children. Greek mythology has subsequently had extensive influence on the arts and literature of western civilization, which fell heir to much of greek culture. Here are the greats of ancient greecegods and goddesses, heroes and monstersas freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today. Its difficult to find accurate sources to tell the true story of greek mythology and the family of myths passed down for thousands of yearsweve collected the best sources for you below. For more great fantasy reads, check out our fantasy books for kids and 10 thrilling books for teens who love fantasy. On certain evenings, the constellation of lyra is visible in the skies. A visual dictionary with entries and more than 600 fine art images. Mar 18, 2011 the definitive and comprehensive edition of robert gravess classic retelling of the greek myths icarus disobeyed his fathers instructions and began soaring towards the sun, rejoiced by the lift of his great sweeping wings. The story building was fascinating to learn with the great characters involved. So here are a few books about mythology to get you started.
If you havent already read the iliad, the odyssey, and hesiods theogony, those are essentials for greek mythology. Ever since its original publication in 1942, edith hamiltons mythology has. It requires a certain amount of patience to stay with this book as it refers to a multitude of difficult to pronounce and even more difficult to remember names of characters from the greek mythology and of course there is the issue of remembering names of the same characters in latin and. If youre looking for a comprehensive introduction to greek mythology that reads like great literature, edith hamiltons mythology is the book id recommend. But a good gift for someone who has little knowledge of mythology. The first great quest in greek mythology book book details. Timeless tales of gods and heroes by edith hamilton. Below, weve assembled 15 of the best books on greek mythology for adults of all skill levels. Theres more than just greek and roman mythology, too. Electra and orestes killing aegisthus in the presence of their mother, clytemnestra. Great greek mythology books for kids mythology books. The olympians at the center of greek mythology is the pantheon of deities who were said to live on mount olympus, the highest mountain in. Below is a list of books about greek mythology, based on or inspired by these myths.
Atticus the storytellers 100 greek myths by lucy coats. Among those youll investigate are the accounts of the creation of the world in hesiods theogony and ovids metamor. As far as i know, every single myth and every single variation, every single little nugget of greek myth that isnt necessarily even complete, is in there. Aeneas the only great trojan warrior who survives the war, aeneas is protected by aphrodite, his mother. The 10 best egyptian mythology books norse mythology for. This dynamic blend, a bridge between modernity and history, ancient narrative and contemporary dramatic art, is a new way to discover or rediscover this part of our universal heritage. Every single greek myth is in this book, is that right.
For somewhat older people who are curious about the stories and reallife history related to greek myths, a good choice is thomas bulfinchs. Best books for teens based on greek mythology urban epics. Oct 21, 2019 the library of greek mythology is unique among other greek mythology books, as it is the only book to survive from classical antiquity. There is buddhist, jain, abrahmic and world mythology that awaits coverage. The books written about the heroes of greek mythology include hercule and perseus, where the books written about the gods of greek mythology include zeus, apollo, hades, and hephaestus. During an extended trip to greece, they studied and sketched the countryside, the people, and the architecture and artifacts of long ago. The 10 best egyptian mythology books ra, with the sun disk above his head, on the boat with which he traversed the sky and the underworld in his daily round there are so many books available on ancient egyptian mythology and religion, especially introductions written for beginners, that it can sometimes seem that theyre more numerous than. In this lesson plan, students will gain an understanding of greek mythology and the olympian gods and goddesses. The fantastic in every sense of the word books on this list draw from indian, norse, japanese, chinese, and korean myths.
These books are the best greek mythology books from past and present. Edith hamiltons book, mythology, is the best book on mythology besides classic textbooks. According to legend, achilles was extraordinarily strong, courageous and loyal, but he had one vulnerabilityhis achilles. Apr 12, 2018 if you are like me, you love revised fairy tales, and the revision of greek or roman mythology to new purposes is just as satisfying. Watched over by the muses from birth, orpheus talent enchanted nature, both trees and animals alike. Here are some lists of mythology books for teens on goodreads. It is more accurate to think of her as a collector or interpreter, as she compiled the stories in the book from the writings of various greek, roman, and icelandic authors. Greek mythology was part of the religion in ancient greece.
The legends of ancient greece, rome and the norse and celtic worlds. Most popular greek mythology movies and tv shows imdb. But circe is a strange childnot powerful, like her father, nor viciously alluring like her mother. From immortal gods, goddesses, and heroes to unusual creatures and demigods, these greek mythology books for kids are filled with action, drama, and adventure. It uses some parts of greek mythology, but in a modern way. A collection of animated interpretations of great works of western classical music. The complete world of greek mythology by richard buxton. For some, the wondrous tales and their largerthanlife characters make for great literature. The earliest surviving works of ancient greek literature, dating back to the early archaic period, are the two epic poems the iliad and the odyssey, set in the mycenaean era. Hg was inspired by mythology, but it is not based on mythology, nor does it tell the story of a myth, or otherwise incorporate myths in some way. Daulaires book of greek myths by ingri and edgar parin daulaire. Unfortunately, its difficult for a newcomer to get started on the subject, as there are hundreds of books on greek mythology available.
Many stories i have heard before and others that i have not. Greek mythology is the precursor to modern religion. This series of greek heroes and gods takes the nonfiction myths of these characters and gives them a youthful feel for kids to read and understand. Hephaestus wife aphrodite was unfaithful to him and had an affair with ares. Martin 2003 the penguin book of classical myths by jenny march 2008 the gods of the greeks by karoly kerenyi 1951 the heroes of the greeks by karoly kerenyi 1959 a handbook of greek mythology by h. But who are the greatest heroes of greek mythology. Rose 1928 the complete world of greek mythology by. Hachette book group has been publishing hamiltons classic since its release in 1942.
This series sets out to recount these ancient stories using animations created especially for the occasion, and illustrations chosen from the entire history of art. A time came when many tribes of this aryan race moved on to other lands. The best books on greek myths five books expert recommendations. When it comes to greek mythology, you can go back to the source. He flees troy, carrying his father on his back and leading his child by the hand. More than just gods and goddesses, this longago culture gave us legendary heroes and heroines whose exploits still thrill us. Greek mythology books retellings, translations, and commentary continue to be some of my favorite reads. The library of greek mythology presents greek mythology in its purest form, translated directly from ancient greek works for englishspeaking readers to enjoy. Greek mythology in the great gatsby by adam smith on prezi. Hades is one of the gods but because he lives in the underworld, he is not technically an olympian, despite being equally powerful. When youre seeking a departure and or an awakening, read these 20 mythology books, from classic greek titles to japanese, russian, irish, and african stories. This genre includes books varying from nonfiction to fiction. Greek mythology is the body of myths and teachings that belong to the ancient greeks, concerning their gods and heroes, the nature of the world, and the origins and significance of their own cult and ritual practices.
This is another great novel to keep on your shelf for the learner who wants more. The 10 best greek mythology books norse mythology for smart. Spark an interest in greek mythology with these fabulous kids books that recount the classic stories or use them as inspiration for new and exciting tales. Oct 23, 2019 although the world of the ancient greeks is long past, it lives on in the stirring tales of greek mythology. Nov 22, 2017 despite my reservation about the books limited coverage of the teeming world of greek mythology, it is commendable to see the wellloved fry put his fame to such constructive use. At some point during their grade school years, lots of kids go through a big mythology phase they cant get enough of stories about gods, goddesses, and other mythological creatures. Click here to view or buy the complete world of greek mythology at amazon, where its discounted 46% from its list price. Greek mythology is the body of myths originally told by the ancient greeks and a genre of ancient greek folklore. Myths and origins the human race has been curious about all the surrounding phenomenon of nature, since its beginning. In print for over fifty years, daulaires book of greek myths has introduced generations to greek mythologyand continues to enthrall young readers. Greek mythology is the set of stories about the gods, goddesses, heroes and rituals of ancient greeks. The illustrations, while simple, are full of life and charm.
Scroll below to find out the best greek mythology books to read. Favorite greek myths classic books for children at. These stories concern the origin and the nature of the world, the lives and activities of deities, heroes, and mythological creatures, and the origins and significance of the ancient greeks own cult and ritual practices. This book truly deserve the 5 trees i gave it and more. We follow the drama of the trojan war and the wanderings of odysseus. Ajax the great was one of the greatest heroes of greek mythology, one who came to prominence during the trojan war, and stood shouldertoshoulder with other great heroes, including achilles and diomedes. The great stories of greek and roman mythology, specially arranged for children five and up by an educational expert kindle edition by russell, william f download it once and read it on your kindle device, pc, phones or tablets. Following orpheus death, zeus placed the constellation in the sky, as a tribute to the greatest poet and musician in greek mythology. Greek mythology is not only interesting, but it is also the foundation of allusion and character genesis in literature. Classical mythology audiobook by elizabeth vandiver, the. Favorite greek myths the darkness of night was a serpent, slain by their sungods arrows. Mythology by edith hamilton 1942 myths of the ancient greeks by richard p.
These 24 lectures are a vibrant introduction to the primary characters and most important stories of classical greek and roman mythology. This book will someday be a classic novel used in any integrated unit on ancient greece. Although the world of the ancient greeks is long past, it lives on in the stirring tales of greek mythology. For others, the value of the greek myths and the religion of which they. Greek mythology is the body of myths and teachings that belong to the ancient greeks, concerning their gods and heroes, the nature of the world.
For those already familiar with bulfinch, the next book to pick up is timothy gantz early greek myths, although this is a 2volume reference work, rather than a book to read. Here are nine greek mythology retellings that will change the way you see zeus, persephone, and all those other greek gods and goddesses you thought you knew so well. This list of books about greek or roman mythology is sponsored by little, brown and company, publisher of circe by madeline miller. Probably the most famous of all mythology books, edith hamiltons mythology introduces readers to the greek, roman and norse myths that are the keystone of western culture, and the stories of gods and heroes that have inspired human creativity throughout history. The myths are presented in an easily understandable format that does not talk down to children. Kids chapter books fiction books for kids books for tweens best children books kids story books books for boys stories for kids childrens books. Here are the best greek mythology books by the experts. Great greek mythology books for kids brightly from immortal gods and heroes to unusual creatures and demigods, these greek mythology books for kids are filled with action, drama, and adventure. Great book for starters in greek mythology mythology by edith hamilton is a great book greek mythology novices like me. Nov 26, 2019 this book on greek mythology focuses on the heroes and gods of greek mythology. Lets go on to your next choice, robert gravess the greek myths.
Delve into these tales of war, destruction, love, and rebirth, and superstition now. The lightning thief by rick riordan, the last olympian by rick riordan, the odyssey by homer, the sea of monsters by ric. Greek mythology in the great gatsby greek gods king midas and the golden touch the midas touch gatsby as zeus everything he touches turns into gold rich and powerful man in the sky both learn a life lesson that. Greek mythology is a dense and fascinating topic for study. Chelsea house books are available at special discounts when purchased in bulk quantities for. Edith hamiltons mythology succeeds like no other book in bringing to life for the modern reader the greek, roman and norse myths that are the keystone of western culturethe stories of gods and heroes that have inspired human creativity from antiquity to the present. Greek mythology is an amazing subject, full of complex characters and lore. The book covers not only greek mythology but roman mythology as well, showing how the. It is a great book for beginners who want to get acquainted with greek mythology. If youre looking for a great book on greek mythology for kids, daulaires book of greek myths is easily the best one out there. Online shopping from a great selection at books store. Bulfinchs mythology originally published as three volumes by thomas bulfinch 1855 mythology by edith hamilton 1942 myths of the ancient greeks by richard p. This wiki has been updated 11 times since it was first published in february of 2018.
Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading classic myths to read aloud. The sailor of legend is framed by the goddess eris for the theft of the book of peace, and must travel to her realm at the end of the world to retrieve it and save the life of his childhood friend prince proteus. His values are more roman than greek, as he is first and foremost a warrior. Books for teaching ancient greece and mythology scholastic. Jennifers writing is addicting by itself, but by adding greek mythology to this tale it became a huge win for me.
Thus book travels to the world if the ancient greeks with their gods, heroes, and the paths that they took together. Jan 04, 2017 whether its adapted fairy tales, rewritten classic literature, updated fables, or modern greek mythology retellings, im a sucker for rereading tales ive already been told in new and exciting. Best greek mythology books to read for adults and kids. List of 10 best books to read about greek mythology. Devdutt writes prolifically on mythology he has written books not just on indian mythology, but how it relates to the various spheres in the life of the common man. Timeless tales of gods and heroes is one of the oldest and bestselling books on greek mythology, and within minutes of opening it, youll see why. Mythology retells ancient myths youre familiar with, like hercules, or. Daulaires book of greek myths also gave me a great insight into a more adult world, and a curiosity, which i still carry to this day. Ancient greek literature refers to literature written in the ancient greek language from the earliest texts until the time of the byzantine empire. The book doctor goes on a search for the best myth collections for small children. If youre still fascinated with greek mythology books, or looking for percy jackson or circe readalikes, youll find the best of them here for adults, teens, and kids alike. Greek mythology begins with homer, generally believed to be not earlier than a thousand years before christ. Students will be transported back in time while reliving the greek culture through the eyes of this tormented heroine. Some of them settled in the land we now call greece, taking with them their quaint stories of the sky and the clouds, of father dyaus.
Jul 22, 2019 greek mythology books retellings, translations, and commentary continue to be some of my favorite reads. The theban hero was trained by the centaur chiron and eventually slain by artemis, the goddess of the hunt, the moon, the forest, and archery. The iliad is, or contains, the oldest greek literature. Daulaires book of greek myths is a childrens book with beautiful, handdrawn illustrations. The warrior achilles is one of the great heroes of greek mythology. Greek mytholgy are books about or based on the ancient greek myths as well as gods and goddesses. Our mythological greek superhero amazon princess rescues and then captures the evil circe when circe gets trapped in her own body by the powerful trinity beast in this fastpaced, illustrated beginning chapter book. Although her name is the only one on the cover, edith hamilton is not really the author of all the tales in mythology. The characters, stories, lessons, and themes of greek mythology have molded art and literature for over thousands of years now. Ajax the great in greek mythology greek legends and myths.
The result was daulaires book of greek myths, the standardbearer of mythology for children since its publication in 1962. This book from the percy jackson novel series is a fantasy novel for young adults, which is based on greek mythology. Daulaires book of greek myths by ingri daulaire, paperback. Click here to view or buy mythology at amazon, where its discounted 45% from its list price. Aug 25, 2014 a child who shares her name with a greek god wants to learn more about the legends and history behind her name. In ancient greek mythology, actaeon was a prince of thebes and famed hunter. Best books for kids and adults interested in greek mythology. Daulaires book of greek myths by edgar parin daulaire. The odyssey by homer, the song of achilles by madeline miller, the iliad by homer, bulfinchs mythology by.