The Theogony, Work, and Days, and The Shield of Heracles

Paperback, 69 pages

English language

Published Jan. 1, 2008 by Digireads.com Publishing.

ISBN:
978-1-4209-3074-0
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5 stars (1 review)

[from back cover] Contained in this volume are the three best known works of the ancient Greek poet Hesiod. Hesiod's The Theogony concerns the origins of the world and of the gods and forms a foundation for all Greek mythology. In Works and Days, Hesiod argues that labor is a fundamental condition of human existence and to those who are willing to work success will be most surely achieved. Additionally in this volume is The Shield of Heracles in which is described the conflict between Heracles and Cycnus while passing near Itonus. Presented here is the Hugh G. Evelyn-White translation of three important works that are generally attributed to Hesiod.

1 edition

A Classic translation of Historically Important Stories

5 stars

Giving this book a 5 star review as who am I to say anything negative against stories well over 2 thousand years old and a translation that is approximately 100 years old now, that is considered seminal. And the book does provide an amazing insight into the Greeks life and philosophy.

Both The Theogony and Work and Days are very academic, the first being a long list of the Greek Gods and their origin and relation of one to another and the later being best practices for farming which would obviously be important for the ancient society and a great interest to scholars but not the most interesting to read. The Shield of Heracles is by far the closest to an actually story and is written in a very entertaining and engaging way, however it is also the shortest story at around 10 pages.

However my recommendation would be if …

Subjects

  • Classics
  • Greek
  • Mythology
  • Literature
  • Philosophy