Arcadian Days: Gods, Women and Men from Greek Myth - From the Winner of the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction

Greek myths, refined by ancient poets and playwrights, capture the essence of human life, including its brief span, pride, courage, and insecurity. Spurling's new myths for contemporary readers explore male-female pairs that destroyed dynasties, raised and felled heroes, and sealed the fates of men.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2022
Publisher: Prelude

The rich tapestry of Greek myths, intricately woven by the great poets and playwrights of Ancient Greece, unveils the profound essence of human existence. Within its fleeting duration, we encounter a kaleidoscope of emotions: from the soaring heights of pride and courage to the depths of insecurity and anxiety. Our interconnectedness with the natural world, embodied by mighty gods and monstrous creatures, becomes a central theme, reflecting the intricate balance between humanity and the forces of nature.

In his remarkable work, Spurling, a lifelong classicist and acclaimed playwright and historical novelist, takes us on a captivating journey through time. Drawing inspiration from the unparalleled beauty and profound depth of poetry by Homer, Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, he crafts five additional myths for modern readers. These captivating tales revolve around male-female pairs who have left an indelible mark on history: Prometheus and Pandora, Jason and the sorceress Medea, Oedipus and his daughter Antigone, Achilles and his mother Thetis, and Odysseus and Penelope. Through their triumphs and tragedies, these characters have shaped dynasties, raised and felled heroes, and sealed the fates of countless men.

Spurling's masterful storytelling brings these ancient myths to life, capturing the essence of human nature and the complexities of our existence. His vivid descriptions and vivid characters transport us to a world where gods and mortals intertwine, where the boundaries between good and evil blur, and where the consequences of our actions reverberate through generations.

In this collection of myths, Spurling offers us a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, reminding us of the timeless themes that continue to resonate with us today. From the power of love and sacrifice to the consequences of hubris and deceit, these stories offer valuable lessons and insights into the human condition. They remind us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and the pursuit of justice, and of the enduring power of myth to shape our understanding of the world.

As we immerse ourselves in these captivating tales, we are transported to a realm where the gods and mortals walk side by side, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, and where the essence of human existence is revealed in all its complexity and beauty. So let us embark on this journey, and discover the timeless wisdom and inspiration that lie within the pages of Greek myths.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780715654569