The gods of Olympus

The twelve gods of Olympus, as seen in the most important and loveliest of the myths surrounding them, are presented in this book with the light touch and clear eye of the distinguished student of Greek mythology Menelaos Stephanides. Combining the joy of learning with the pleasure of tales well told, this enjoyable volume will give its readers an amusing introduction to the all-too-mortal gods of the ancient Greeks. For in Greek mythology the gods are very far from perfect and have as many human weaknesses as supernatural powers. It is precisely their blend of power and frailties that gives mythology in its Greek form the lasting appeal that has drawn people to the stories of its gods for the past three thousand years. Superhuman battles with fearsome creatures or forces of nature such as Typhon, the loves and infidelities of Zeus, cunning, hatred, friendship, wisdom and generosity are all interwoven in an entrancing tangle which Menelaos Stephanides unwinds and weaves into clear and simple language. The myths are arranged so that each god is given one chapter, while the first chapter is devoted to Hesiod's cosmogony, the Greek version of the birth of the world. Suitable for all ages.