Bulfinch's Mythology

Ever wonder why we say someone has a "Midas touch" or an "Achilles' heel"? The stories of ancient Greece and Rome are woven into our language and culture, but their origins can feel like a tangled web of gods, heroes, and monsters. This summary untangles it for you. You'll get a clear and concise guide to the most important myths, from the Trojan War to the adventures of Hercules. Discover the dramatic tales of love, betrayal, and power that have shaped Western literature and art for centuries, all presented in an easy-to-follow, engaging format.

A Harvard-educated classicist and banker, Thomas Bulfinch dedicated his life to making the ancient myths of Greece, Rome, and beyond accessible to the everyday reader. Believing that a knowledge of mythology was essential for understanding Western art and literature, he skillfully retold these timeless tales for a modern audience. His work was not for the academic, but for the merchant, the clerk, and the student, aiming to share the wisdom and wonder of the classics with all.