Classical Mythology A to Z

Classical Mythology A-to-Z: An Encyclopedia of Gods & Goddesses, Heroes & Heroines, Nymphs, Spirits, Monsters, and Places

COMPREHENSIVE MYTHOLOGICAL REFERENCE • ESSENTIAL COMPANION TO EDITH HAMILTON'S MYTHOLOGY

Written by classicist Annette Giesecke, PhD, Classical Mythology A-to-Z is an accessible reference covering over 700 entities, figures, creatures, and landmarks from Greek and Roman traditions. Designed with two-color illustrations and 10 full-color plates by artist Jim Tierney, the volume serves as both an independent guide and a companion piece to the 75th-anniversary edition of Edith Hamilton's Mythology.

Rather than simple narrative retellings, the entries provide clear definitions, Roman/Greek cult equivalents, and cross-references, alongside occasional historical and archaeological context (such as the historical site of Troy).

"A map of classical myth covering the deities, heroes, monsters, and sacred places that shaped the ancient world."

Structural Breakdown & Four Core Sections:

1. Gods, Goddesses, Spirits, and Nymphs: Major Olympian deities, lesser-known nature spirits, river gods, and immortal or semi-immortal figures.

2. Heroes, Heroines, and Peoples: Mortals, demigods, Trojan War figures, royal dynasties, and distinct groups like the Amazons.

3. Monsters, Prodigies, and Hybrid Creatures: Beings of extraordinary size or form—from Cerberus and Sirens to Satyrs and Giants.

4. Places and Landmarks: Sacred mountains, rivers, kingdoms, and Underworld realms (e.g., Mount Olympus, Elysian Fields, the Parthenon).

Key Features & Design Highlights:

Perfect For:

• Mythology Enthusiasts & Students: An ideal quick-reference encyclopedia for checking names, relationships, and origins.

• Companions to Edith Hamilton Readers: Designed to match the visual style and scope of the 75th-anniversary Mythology edition.

• Writers & Worldbuilders: A useful tool for exploring classical character names, epithets, and mythological settings.