Greek Mythology

A vivid and accessible introduction to Greek mythology through 80 illustrated profiles and legendary tales-from the birth of the cosmos to Odysseus's long-awaited return home.

Discover the essential figures and unforgettable stories of ancient Greece: Zeus and the gods of Olympus, Prometheus and Pandora, Demeter and Persephone, Medusa and the Minotaur, Heracles, Perseus, Theseus, Jason, Oedipus, Achilles, the Trojan War, the adventures of Odysseus, and many more.

How did Zeus become ruler of Olympus? Why does Persephone divide her time between two worlds? How did Perseus defeat Medusa? What lay at the heart of the Minotaur's labyrinth? Why did Orpheus descend into the Underworld? And how did Odysseus finally make his way back to Ithaca after years of wandering?

From the first powers to emerge from Chaos and the age of the Titans to the Olympian gods, legendary heroes, the Trojan War, and Odysseus's journey home, the book follows a clear and engaging path through the great stories of Greek mythology.

Each two-page spread pairs a striking illustration with a clear, engaging retelling, along with the key characters, symbols, and details readers need to understand the myth. A brief explanation places each story in context, while an ancient source note points readers toward the major traditions behind it.