The Complete World of Greek Mythology

Science News, July 3, 2004

THE COMPLETE WORLD OF GREEK MYTHOLOGY

RICHARD BUXTON

One of the richest legacies of the ancient Greek people is their mythology, which thrives in various incarnations even today. Buxton, a Greek scholar at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, provides a comprehensive and authoritative retelling of these myths and in doing so defines each one's theme, relevance to Greek religion and society, and relationship to the landscape. A wealth of Greek artistic imagery that helps define Greek mythology is presented here through brilliant photographs and illustrations of artifacts. Buxton provides a foundation for his topic by first defining the general characteristics of a Greek myth and the evidence available for dissecting its meaning and significance within its original contexts. The book also addresses myths topically, including chapters that deal with creation, the power of gods, heroism, including the legendary expeditions of the Greeks to Troy, and the heroines who faced some terrifying events and strange family relationships. Thames Hudson, 2004, 256 p., color/b&w photos/illus., hardcover, $39.95.