Books on greek mythology?

Question

I want to buy a book on greek mythology but am confused which one to buy. There is "A Library of Greek Mythology" by Apollodorus and "Greek Myths" by Robert Graves. Both look equally good but I am thoroughly confused. Has anybody an idea which one of the above two is better?

Answer 1

I would say: buy Robert Graves' "The Greek Myths" because you can read [an English translation of] the whole of Apollodorus' "Bibliotheka" (Library) online for free [it's composed of 3 books & a sort of epilogue called the "Epitome"] over here:

http://www.theoi.com/Text/Apollodorus1.html

http://www.theoi.com/Text/Apollodorus2.html

http://www.theoi.com/Text/Apollodorus3.html

http://www.theoi.com/Text/ApollodorusE.html



Apollodorus was an ancient mythographer, so his work is considered to be "original source material" for the mythology of the ancient Greeks. Robert Graves' book is a compilation, written in his own words, of most of the ancient mythographers' collections of Greco-Roman myths, including the writings of Apollodorus.

Answer 2

Neither are 'better'. Apollodorus is an original work and wsill be in translation. Robert Graves I think you will find much more accesssible. I would read Graves first, then Apollodorus or Ovid's Metamphoses.

Also try Edith Hamilton's Greek Myths

Answer 3

Get them both. The one with more pictures is better but buy both anyway.

Answer 4

buy percy jackson... best greek mythology book.. i just love it..!!!