Classical Mythology

Description

Classical Mythology offers both newcomers and long-time enthusiasts new ways to navigate the fascinating world of Greek and Roman myths and legends. Richly illustrated with more than one hundred images drawn from ancient art, the second edition of this unparalleled guide includes a thoroughly revised introduction, augmented lexical entries, an updated further-reading section, and enlarged discussions about the reception of classical mythology and the impact of cognitive science on the study of myth.

• Provides continuous narration and a mythological dictionary
• Brings a classicist and folklorist perspective to ancient mythological narratives
• Over 100 illustrations, all based on ancient art

About the Author(s)

William Hansen, Professor Emeritus of Classical Studies & Folklore,, Indiana University

William Hansen is Professor Emeritus of Classical Studies & Folklore at Indiana University, Bloomington. Along with the present work, his books include Phlegon of Tralles' Book of Marvels (1996), Anthology of Ancient Greek Popular Literature (1998), Ariadne's Thread: A Guide to International Tales Found in Classical Literature (2002), and The Book of Greek and Roman Folktales, Legends, and Myths (2017).

Table of Contents

Picture Credits
Preface
1 Introduction
2 What Happens in Classical Mythology
3 Lexicon of Characters, Themes, and Concepts
4 Annotated Resources
Abbreviations and Selected Reference List
Glossary
Index

Reviews

"A useful guide for nonspecialists." - P. E. Ojennus, CHOICE

"Those interested in the folklorist approach to myth will welcome William Hansen's Classical Mythology. This is neither a straightforward dictionary of mythology, nor a retelling of myths, but an innovative mix of both ... Hansen adopts a folkloristic approach to Greek myth, and his entries on concepts such as wondrous objects, human and divine tricksters, triads, or tasks are especially valuable ... I highly recommend reading this book cover to cover." - Ivana Petrovic, Greece & Rome

"It will help to orient those studying Classics and other courses on the ancient world, especially mythology, but students of English and other European literatures will also find assistance here.... Hansen is himself an expert storyteller, and his accounts of individual myths are always a pleasure to read.... The publishers have taken care to produce a reliable and accessible Guide at a price within the reach of virtually every undergraduate. This is no mean feat." - Bryn Mawr Classical Review