Thursday, December 20, 2018

I held a copy of this book 15 years ago and really can't take my eyes off of it. I tried all the possible ways to have a copy of this however failed since this was only produced and available in the USA way back then.

Mythology by Edith Hamilton

This book made my college days staying in the library for longer hours enjoyable and had no dull moments at all. Located in the section where all materials are prohibited outside the library and only for library use. Internet was not that rampant during those years and burying your nose reading books was the best mind cultivation one could ever have.

I even wrote in my notebook the title and the author of this book since I really liked it so much that I wanted to have a copy of my own. I checked with all available bookstores in Manila that might have this book however all of these bookstores advised me that this is only available and produced in the USA. Well, I did not lose hope however my life moved on, and forgot about this book for a while.

Until recently, I saw a post on Facebook about this book. I was so excited since the person was so kind enough to share where this could be bought and how much it was. With no hesitations with money in my pocket and my rest day falls in, I hurriedly went to the nearest bookstore to inquire about this.

National Bookstore does not have this in their stock and thank heaven that Fully Booked in SM Southmall got plenty of these neatly arranged right from their store window. I was so excited to have a copy and bought one for myself.

This is indeed a Christmas wish granted so early.

What I loved about this book is that it is a hardbound lovely cover, pages were thick like Oslo colored papers. I also loved the illustrations in this book, not so plenty yet complement the important stories of mythology.

These also provide a narration of how the gods were connected with each other. Another thing that I really liked is that it shows graphical illustrations of their connections. The English language that was used was easy to understand and not only that, this also has the not-so-famous god in Greek mythology which is indeed a great help to be understood by the reader.

I sooo loved this book that even my kids were able to read and enjoyed every story it beholds. It's not cheap though, which is really understandable- the materials were true of good quality, from its hardbound colorful cover, thick lovely pages and take into consideration that this was imported from the USA.

I bought this book in Fully Booked SM Southmall for the amount of Php 1522.00

"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" by Edith Hamilton is a classic and highly acclaimed book that has become a staple in the field of mythology. It was first published in 1942 and has since remained popular and widely read.

The book is divided into sections, each dedicated to a specific pantheon of gods and goddesses. It starts with Greek mythology, delving into the stories of Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Aphrodite, Hermes, and many others. The Roman myths follow, with their counterparts to the Greek gods and goddesses. Finally, Hamilton explores Norse mythology with tales of Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya, and the majestic world of Asgard.

Edith Hamilton's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex and intricate stories of mythology comprehensible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. She brings the gods and goddesses to life with vivid descriptions and narrative skills, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

One of the strengths of "Mythology" lies in its ability to present the underlying themes and exploration of human nature found within these ancient myths. Hamilton doesn't merely retell the stories but provides analysis and commentary that enables readers to delve deeper into the cultural, psychological, and moral aspects of the myths.

Graphical presentation of Gods and Goddesses

Moreover, Hamilton includes lesser-known stories and characters that often get overshadowed by the more famous myths. By including these lesser-known tales, she broadens the reader's understanding of the mythological world and showcases the vast array of fascinating characters and stories that populate it.

"Mythology" is not just a book for mythology enthusiasts; it is also a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in ancient cultures. It offers a foundation for further exploration of mythological themes and provides insight into the beliefs, values, and customs of ancient societies.

Alongside the myths themselves, Hamilton weaves in historical context, highlighting the influence of mythology on literature, art, and philosophy throughout history. By doing so, she demonstrates the enduring impact these ancient tales have had on human civilization.

In summary, "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" by Edith Hamilton is a remarkable book that brings ancient myths to life while exploring their deeper meanings. With its elegant prose, comprehensive coverage, and insightful commentary, it remains an invaluable resource and an immersive journey into the captivating world of gods, goddesses, and heroes.

"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" is a captivating book written by Edith Hamilton. It serves as a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies.

Edith Hamilton, a renowned classical scholar, masterfully weaves together various ancient myths, bringing to life the gods, goddesses, heroes, and mythical creatures that have fascinated humanity for centuries. Her storytelling abilities enable readers to immerse themselves in these timeless tales and gain insights into the complexities of human nature, the origins of the world, and the moral lessons embedded within these myths.

The book covers a wide range of mythological stories, from the creation myths to epic adventures and tragic love stories. With great attention to detail, Hamilton explores various pantheons and highlights the similarities and differences between Greek, Roman, and Norse mythologies.

One of the notable aspects of "Mythology" is its ability to make these ancient stories relatable and relevant to contemporary readers. Hamilton not only provides a comprehensive account of the myths but also delves into the cultural, historical, and psychological contexts surrounding these tales. This contextual analysis adds depth and richness to the narratives, enabling readers to explore the underlying meanings and symbolism present in each myth.

I was indeed a happy kiddo when I bought this book 😊😊😊

"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Goddesses" is not just a mere collection of stories; it serves as a bridge between the ancient world and the modern reader. It invites us to reflect upon our own lives, values, and aspirations by examining the human experiences presented through these mythological accounts. Through Hamilton's eloquent prose and deep understanding of the subject matter, the book becomes a compelling exploration of the human condition itself.

Whether you are a mythology enthusiast or a newcomer to these ancient tales, "Mythology" promises an engaging and enlightening journey through the realms of gods, goddesses, and mortals. It is a book that continues to inspire countless readers worldwide, reminding us of the enduring power and relevance of myth in our collective human story.