Two allegorical ancient Greek stories about a young hero’s career- defining choice are shown in this book to have later been appropriated to radically differing effects. E.g. a male’s choice between female personifications can morph into a female’s choice between the same, or between various male personifications. Never before have so many instances of this process from art, literature, music, even landscape gardening, been culled. Illustrations, mainly colour, many brought into this context for the first time, are conveniently incorporated into the text, thus mimetically mirroring a central theme of the book, the process of ‘visualising the verbal, verbalising the visual.’
The stories of Heracles at the Crossroads and the Judgement of Paris have, thanks to the process of refashioning, appropriation and extension known as 'Reception, ' exercised an enormous and vibrant influence upon art, literature and music in the modern world.
Greek Heroes in and out of Hades is a study on heroism and mortality from Homer to Plato. Through systematic readings of a wide range of ancient Greek texts, Stamatia Dova offers innovative hermeneutic approaches to heroic character and a comprehensive overview of the theme of descent to the underworld in the Iliad and the Odyssey, Bacchylides 5, Plato's Symposium, and Euripides' Alcestis.
"The first half of the volume is devoted to the exposition of the ancient evidence, literary and iconographic, for the traditions of Heracles' life and deeds. After a chapter each on the hero's childhood and his madness, the canonical cause of his Twelve Labors, each of the Labors themselves receives detailed treatment in a dedicated chapter. The 'Parerga' or 'Side-Labors' are then treated in a similar level of detail in seven further chapters. In the second half of the book the Heracles tradition is analysed from a range of thematic perspectives. After consideration of the contrasting projections of the figure across the major literary genres, Epic, Tragedy, Comedy, Philosophy, and in the iconographic register, a number of his myth-cycle's diverse fils rouges are pursued: Heracles' fashioning as a folkloric quest-hero; his relationships with the two great goddesses, the Hera that persecutes him and the Athena that protects him; and the rationalisation and allegorisation of his cycle's constituent myths. The ways are investigated in which Greek communities and indeed Alexander the Great exploited the figure both in the fashioning of their own identities and for political advantage. The cult of Heracles is considered in its Greek manifestation, in its syncretism with that of the Phoenician Melqart, and in its presence at Rome, the last study leading into discussion of the use made of Heracles by the Roman emperors themselves and then by early Christian writers. A final chapter offers an authoritative perspective on the limitless subject of Heracles' reception in the western tradition"--
"Heracles: The Greatest Hero" is an epic retelling of the legendary adventures of Heracles, the greatest hero of Greek mythology. Spanning 83 chapters, the book chronicles Heracles' extraordinary journey from his birth to his ascension as an immortal in the celestial realm of Elysium. Each chapter delves into a different aspect of Heracles' life, from his miraculous feats of strength and valor to his trials and tribulations as he battles monsters, completes impossible tasks, and navigates the complexities of divine destiny. Through vivid storytelling and rich imagery, the book brings to life the timeless myths and legends surrounding Heracles, exploring themes of heroism, sacrifice, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit. Readers are immersed in a world of gods and goddesses, mythical creatures, and epic battles, as they follow Heracles' quest to prove himself worthy of his divine lineage and overcome the challenges that stand in his path. As Heracles faces a series of daunting challenges, from battling the Hydra to completing the Twelve Labors, the book delves into the hero's inner struggles and personal growth, portraying him as a complex and multifaceted character who grapples with his own flaws and limitations. Along the way, Heracles forms deep bonds of friendship, confronts his darkest fears, and ultimately discovers the true meaning of heroism and self-sacrifice. Filled with action, adventure, and moments of profound insight, "Heracles: The Greatest Hero" is a captivating journey through the mythic world of ancient Greece, offering readers a fresh perspective on one of mythology's most enduring and iconic figures. With its compelling narrative and timeless themes, the book invites readers to embark on an unforgettable odyssey alongside the legendary hero, as he strives to fulfill his destiny and leave his mark on the annals of history.
Surpass all odds, break the chains, defeat a God—the thrilling, triumphant final installment in The Heracles Trilogy that began with Son of Zeus. Heracles’ trials are far from over. Carrying the weight of the heavens, accompanied only by his most loyal friend, Iolaus, he will do anything to atone for his crimes. But all is not as it seems. Gods and men alike plot against him . . . First Heracles must obtain the girdle of the Amazonian Queen, Hippolyta, steal cattle from the monstrous Geryon, and take apples from the Garden of Hesperides. Through it all Heracles will come to realize his betrayal is more complete than he could ever have imagined. Ultimately, to release himself from his suffering, he must journey deep into Hades, and face death itself . . .
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