Mythology (book)

Mythology is a popular and influential book on Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology, written by Edith Hamilton. First published in 1942, it remains a standard introduction to these mythologies for students and general readers alike.

The book is divided into three main sections: "Greek Mythology," "Roman Mythology," and "Norse Mythology." Hamilton presents the myths as coherent narratives, focusing on the major gods, heroes, and legends.

Key features of Mythology include:

• Accessible prose: Hamilton's writing style is clear, engaging, and avoids overly academic language, making the complex subject matter accessible to a wide audience.
• Emphasis on storytelling: The book prioritizes the narrative elements of the myths, presenting them as compelling stories rather than simply catalogs of deities and events.
• Connections between Greek and Roman mythology: Hamilton highlights the parallels and adaptations between Greek and Roman myths, demonstrating how Roman culture adopted and transformed the Greek traditions.
• Integration of literary sources: Hamilton draws upon a variety of primary sources, including Homer, Hesiod, Ovid, and Virgil, to retell the myths, providing a sense of their original context.
• Introduction to Norse Mythology: The final section of the book provides a comprehensive introduction to Norse mythology, covering the major gods, creation myths, and Ragnarok.

Mythology has been widely praised for its readability, its comprehensive coverage of the subject matter, and its enduring appeal. It has been credited with introducing generations of readers to the fascinating world of classical mythology. While more recent scholarship may offer alternative interpretations of certain myths, Mythology remains a foundational text in the field.