Exploring Greek Myth

Exploring Greek Myth offers an extensive discussion of variant forms of myths and lesser-known stories, including important local myths and local versions of PanHellenic myths. Clark also discusses approaches to understanding myths, allowing students to gain an appreciation of the variety in one volume. Guides students from an introductory understanding of myths to a wide-ranging exploration of current scholarly approaches on mythology as a social practice and as an expression of thought Written in an informal conversational style appealing to students by an experienced lecturer in the field Offers extensive discussion of variant forms of myths and many lesser known, but deserving, stories Investigates a variety of approaches to the study of myth including: the sources of our knowledge of Greek myth, myth and ritual in ancient Greek society, comparative myth, myth and gender, hero cult, psychological interpretation of myth, and myth and philosophy Includes suggestions in each chapter for essays and research projects, as well as extensive lists of books and articles for further reading The author draws on the work of many leading scholars in the field  in his exploration of topics throughout the text

List of Illustrations vii Preface ix Acknowledgments xiii Chapter One: The Knife Did It 1 Definitions and Characteristics for the Study of Myth Chapter Two: Six Hundred Gods 15 Greek Myth and Greek Religion Chapter Three: Homer’s Beauty Pageant 30 The Traditions of Myth Chapter Four: Pelops’ Shoulder 43 Sources for the Study of Myth Chapter Five: Ikaros’ Wings, Aktaion’s Dogs 54 Myth and Meaning Chapter Six: The Bones of Orestes 68 Heroes in Myth and Society Chapter Seven: Born from the Earth 80 Founders of Cities and Families Chapter Eight: The Judgment of Paris 97 Comparative Myth Chapter Nine: Boys in Dresses, Brides with Beards 111 Myth and Gender Chapter Ten: Agamemnon’s Mask? 126 Myth and History Chapter Eleven: Orestes on Trial 140 Myth and Thought Chapter Twelve: Plato and the Poets 154 Philosophy and Myth Chapter Thirteen: Conclusion 168 Notes 171 References 179 Index 187