Event Description
This overview of Greco-Roman mythology will examine the heroic myths using the ancient Greek writer Apollodorus as a guide, with treatments by Ovid, Virgil, and Hyginus for Roman perspectives. All readings will be in translation. We will study Creation and the Flood, the adventures of Jason and the Argonauts, Perseus, Hercules, and Theseus, the Trojan War and its aftermath, as well as some popular lesser tales, and conclude with a look at changing concepts of heroism in the later period, as seen in the tale of Cupid and Psyche told by Apuleius. Some attention will be given to medieval and modern treatments of the Classical myths, with a nod to notable motion picture adaptations.