Oxford Handbook of Heracles

Heracles is an ancient Greek hero with a rich and diverse tradition that encompasses various myths and themes. The Oxford Handbook of Heracles is the first comprehensive guide to Heracles, his myth cycle, and his impact on Greek and Roman culture. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the ancient evidence and explores different perspectives on the hero, including his representation in literature, art, cult, and politics.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 608 pages
\n Publication date: 13 October 2021
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc
\n

Heracles, the epitome of the ancient Greek hero, is a rich and expansive tradition that encompasses a diverse array of myths, including quest myths, monster battles, world-founding myths, aetiological myths, philosophical myths, allegorical myths, and more. This rich tapestry of myths not only informs but also is informed by various genres and styles of Classical literature, making it a cornerstone of ancient religious and cultural understanding.

The figure of Heracles serves as a gateway to exploring numerous facets of ancient religion, such as cult practices, syncretism, Christian reception, the interplay between gods and heroes, and the intersection of religion and politics. The Oxford Handbook of Heracles, a comprehensive guide to this legendary hero, his myth cycle known as the Twelve Labors, and the profound influence he had on Greek and Roman culture, provides a comprehensive exploration of these themes.

The first half of the volume delves into a meticulous exposition and analysis of the ancient evidence, encompassing both literary and iconographic sources, that sheds light on Heracles' life and deeds. This evidence, carefully curated by international experts, offers a clear and concise account of the hero's adventures and accomplishments. In the second half, the Heracles tradition is examined from a diverse range of thematic perspectives. The book explores how Heracles has been portrayed across different literary genres and artistic mediums, the ways in which Greek communities and even Roman emperors exploited the figure for their own political purposes, the cult of Heracles in Greece and Rome, its syncretism with the Phoenician god Melqart, and the hero's reception in later Western traditions.

Presented in 39 chapters, this volume is a valuable resource for scholars seeking to deepen their understanding of Heracles and his legacy. It offers a well-structured format that makes it easy to navigate and reference, while also providing an accessible starting point for students interested in exploring this fascinating hero. The Oxford Handbook of Heracles is a testament to the enduring fascination with this legendary figure and his profound impact on ancient and modern culture.

\n Weight: 1082g\n
Dimension: 181 x 255 x 33 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780190650988\n \n