Explore the world of Greek mythology with “MYTHOLOGICA: An Encyclopedia of Gods, Monsters, and Mortals from Ancient Greece” in this review of the impressive giant-sized book. This remarkable reference encyclopedia breathes life into the Greek gods and goddesses, alongside a host of other mythological wonders, with stunning, vibrant illustrations that truly leap off the page!
“MYTHOLOGICA” caters to the curious minds of Greek mythology enthusiasts, offering an in-depth exploration of the most cherished figures in ancient lore. Each deity, monster, hero, and notable character is given their due with two dedicated pages, rich in detail and lively artistry.
After a brief yet engaging introduction and a thoughtfully laid-out table of contents, the book dives straight into the mythic realm, starting with none other than the mighty Zeus!
You’ll find that the “MYTHOLOGICA” encyclopedia strikes a remarkable balance, weaving tales of gods, mortals, and monsters in equal measure, ensuring that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the Greek gods, key Greek myths and legends.
“MYTHOLOGICA” delves deep into the rich and fascinating pantheon of ancient Greece and it begins with the Greek gods!
MYTHOLOGICA: Encyclopedia of GODS (Review)
The enchanting realm of “Mythologica” opens with an exhilarating exploration of the divine, beginning with Zeus, the supreme ruler of the gods, followed by his majestic counterpart, Hera, the revered queen.
Straight after Hera, you will discover the thrilling tales of the Twelve Labors of Heracles in “Mythologica” that highlights the hero’s extraordinary feats. I suppose it had to be that way, since we know that Hera had a thing against Heracles (Hercules).
Following Heracles, you’ll encounter the wisdom of Athena and the brilliance of Apollo, whose remarkable stories further enrich this mythic tapestry. Prepare to be enthralled by the legends that shaped the ancient world!
In “Mythologica,” you’ll encounter Apollo’s twin sister, Artemis, the sea god Poseidon, the love goddess Aphrodite, the talented Hephaestus, and the mischievous Hermes — the ultimate trickster.
It’s a thrilling journey through their stories, brimming with love, rivalry, and all the drama you’d expect from the gods. Prepare yourself for epic adventures and a fresh perspective on these Olympian gods and goddesses!
Following Hermes, the swift messenger of the gods, we encounter the indulgent Dionysus, the embodiment of wine and revelry.
Dionysus is followed by Hades, the enigmatic ruler of the underworld, who presides over the shadows and mysteries of the afterlife. Together, they weave a captivating tapestry of pleasure and enigma in the realm of mythology.
The MYTHOLOGICA encyclopedia section discussing the GODS continues on with the enchanting figures of Demeter and Persephone, whose bond weaves a rich tapestry of life and renewal.
Next, we get to plunge into the chaotic realm of the war-fueled Ares, whose fierce spirit evokes fear in many.
As the narrative unfolds, we encounter the primordial essence of Gaia, goddess of Earth, grounding us in the beauty of existence.
After that we are swept away by the harmonious presence of The Muses, each a radiant source of inspiration, ready to ignite the creative spark within us.
MYTHOLOGIC dives into the fascinating tales of The Fates, Prometheus, and Pan, among others. It’s a pretty extensive lineup of Greek Gods and Goddesses to spark your curiosity and ignite your imagination!
Eros, the god of love, holds a unique place as the last deity featured in “MYTHOLOGICA.” But here’s the twist: he’s been miscategorized under Mortals in the table of contents! Clearly, a mischievous oversight is at play here!
MYTHOLOGICA: Encyclopedia of MORTALS (Review)
Penelope is featured in the captivating “MYTHOLOGICA” Mortals content, where you will delve into more ancient tales.
Among these timeless stories, you’ll journey through the epic adventures of The Odyssey — an essential narrative that showcases the resilience and cleverness of its hero. But the intrigue doesn’t end there!
Prepare to immerse yourself in the fates of other legendary figures, including the tragic love of Narcissus, the harrowing journey of Oedipus, the cautionary tale of Pandora, the soaring ambitions of Icarus, and the golden touch of King Midas. Each myth offers profound lessons and unforgettable characters that will bring the past to life in ways you’ve never imagined!
The “MYTHOLOGICA” Mortals part of the book looks at the prophetic Cassandra, the melodious Orpheus, the enchanting Helen of Troy, and the valiant Achilles and Hector — each playing a pivotal role in the epic saga of The Trojan War.
But the adventure doesn’t end there! Prepare to be inspired by The Amazons, a fearless sisterhood of legendary warrior women who defied conventions and carved their own paths in a world dominated by men. Step into the world of these extraordinary mortals and discover their stories of courage, love, and epic battles!
You’ll also be captivated by the thrilling tales of Jason and Medea, along with the legendary Argonauts who embarked on their epic quest for the Golden Fleece. Inspired by this ancient adventure, “The Jason Voyage” chronicles a contemporary journey to determine the feasibility of their legendary trek. The conclusion? An enthusiastic affirmation — absolutely!
MYTHOLOGICA: Encyclopedia of MONSTERS (Review)
MYTHOLOGICA: An Encyclopedia of Gods, Mortals, and Monsters from Ancient Greece is an extensive tome that delves deep into the stories of ancient mythology. Within its giant pages, one cannot help but encounter the formidable giants of legend.
Among them is the iconic Cyclops, renowned for its singular, gleaming eye, followed closely by Argos, the hundred-eyed giant, whose watchful gaze encompassed every corner of the world. Together, they embody the awe-inspiring and often fearsome nature of the giants that inhabit the enchanting world of Greek myth legend.
Interesting Fact: I just discovered this after reading this book. Encyclopedia contains the word cyclop.
The “MYTHOLOGICA” encyclopedia’s Monsters section is a treasure trove of diabolical and noble beings, showcasing a myriad of mythical creatures that spark both fear and fascination. From the fearsome Hydra with its multiple serpentine heads to the valiant Pegasus soaring through the skies, these entries promise to intrigue any reader.
Encounter the formidable Typhon, the titan of storms, or the enchanting Sirens, whose haunting songs lure sailors to their doom.
Marvel at the majestic Griffin, a symbol of courage and strength, and snake-haired Medusa, whose gaze could petrify the bravest of souls.
The labyrinthine Minotaur, the loyal three-headed Cerberus, and the fierce Harpies further enrich this incredible book, while the legendary Hundred-Handers and the immortal Phoenix offer glimpses of formidable power and rebirth.
Every creature, good or bad (mostly bad, let’s be real), brings its own unique flair to the rich tapestry of mythology. So, why not jump into this amazing world filled with wonder and a touch of spookiness? There’s a treasure trove of fun facts about Greek mythology just waiting for you to uncover!
Mythologica: Review
The one-page introduction to “MYTHOLOGICA” is truly captivating! It opens with a compelling exploration of how Greek mythology permeates our modern world, drawing connections to superstar footballers blessed with the Midas touch, fashion designers inspired by their Muses, and individuals tackling Herculean challenges.
I was particularly struck by one of the closing lines, which eloquently states that these myths may or may not be true, yet their influence remains undeniable. This powerful sentiment beautifully underscores the enduring relevance of mythology in our lives.
Mythologica Encyclopedia is packed with cool facts and stories about gods, monsters, and mortals, just like you’d expect. But here’s the best part: there are a few surprises thrown in that’ll catch even the biggest Greek mythology buffs off guard.
I know I learned some new stuff while checking it out! So, whether you’re a newbie or a mythology pro, there’s definitely something in here for you. Dive in and enjoy the ride!
Check Availability and Pricing: MYTHOLOGICA: An encyclopedia of gods, monsters and mortals from ancient Greece
The book is written by Steve Kershaw and illustrated by Victoria Topping. The dedication and artistry that have gone into crafting this work is truly remarkable. It not only showcases exceptional talent but also captivates its readers with every turn of the page.
For these reasons, and because it’s genuinely an outstanding book, I’m delighted to award it an impressive rating of 8.5 out of 10.
While I wouldn’t recommend this book for first-time readers looking to explore Greek mythology, it serves as a delightful gem for those already acquainted with the subject. It’s perfect for seasoned enthusiasts who crave a fresh perspective, featuring unique and vibrant illustrations that breathe new life into familiar tales.
For newcomers, I suggest starting with more foundational texts like the 10 best Greek mythology books shown here. But if you’ve already tackled a bunch of the classics and are on the hunt for something refreshingly different, this big, inviting book is definitely worth a look!
MYTHOLOGICA is a beautifully crafted encyclopedia that transforms the exploration of Greek myths into an enriching experience, making it a must-have for any mythology enthusiast. Dive into its treasures and immerse yourself in timeless tales. You won’t want to miss this modern-looking masterpiece!
For a refresher on Greek mythology, you can also take a look at this Greek Gods and Goddesses (A-Z) Myth Guide, which is another useful reference.
Pin it … Share it
