18 Captivating Greek Mythology Books & Epic Novels

Greek mythology isn’t just a collection of ancient stories; it’s the very cornerstone of Western literature, art, and culture. Its influence can be felt in everything from the masterpieces of Shakespeare to the tales of modern-day superheroes. These myths delve deep into the timeless themes of human existence, making them relevant to people of all ages.

You might wonder why it’s worth traveling to Greece specifically for its mythological sites. The answer lies in the fact that Greece isn’t just the backdrop for these stories; it’s the birthplace of these myths. When you stand amidst the ruins of ancient temples or gaze upon a statue of a god, you’re standing on the hallowed ground where these myths first came to life.

Whether you’re preparing for a trip to Greece or just eager to delve into this captivating world, here’s a curated list of both non-fiction and fiction Greek mythology books to satisfy your thirst for knowledge and adventure. As you’re reading, consider downloading the free app Greek Mythology. It’s always nice to have a reference tool on hand when dealing with so many deities.

Greek Mythology Books, Non-Fiction:

• “Mythos,” “Heroes,” and “Troy” by Stephen Fry: Dive into Stephen Fry’s genius as he masterfully unravels the intricate tapestry of Greek mythology. Mesmerizing and erudite, these works are a must-read. (Don’t miss his upcoming “Odyssey”). Stephen Fry also narrates his audiobooks, which is fantastic.
• “Mythology” by Edith Hamilton: A timeless classic that comprehensively overviews Greek mythology. This book, often recommended to beginners, is a fantastic starting point.
• “The Greek Myths” by Robert Graves: Written by the author of “I Claudius,” this essential reference offers detailed retellings of Greek myths, exploring their psychological and historical significance. I personally really enjoy Robert Graves, but his books can be a bit tricky to find.
• “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” by Homer: These epic poems are at the heart of Greek mythology. Consider Emily Wilson’s translation of the “Odyssey” for a fresh perspective.
• “The Golden Bough” by James George Frazer: While not exclusively focused on Greek mythology, this work delves into the universality of myth and ritual, providing a broader context for ancient Greek beliefs. It’s a staple but can be a bit challenging.

Greek Mythology Books, Fiction:

• “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller reimagines Achilles and Patroclus’s love story, offering a fresh perspective on characters from the Trojan War.
• “Circe” by Madeline Miller: Miller’s second novel delves into the life of the enchantress Circe, weaving her story into the tapestry of Greek mythology.
• “Lavinia” by Ursula K. Le Guin: While not strictly Greek, this novel set in ancient Italy draws inspiration from Virgil’s “Aeneid,” providing a unique perspective on mythological storytelling.
• “The King Must Die” by Mary Renault: The first book in a historical fiction series that delves into the life of Theseus, the mythical hero of Athens.
• “The Golden Fleece” by Robert Graves: Explore the myth of Jason and the Argonauts as they embark on a perilous journey to retrieve the Golden Fleece. A tough book to locate, but well worth getting the hardback version!
• “Troy: Lord of the Silver Bow” by David Gemmell: The first in a trilogy that reimagines the Trojan War, this book follows the hero Helikaon, also known as Aeneas, in a tale filled with battles, honor, and destiny.

Bonus: Steven Pressfield’s Works on Greek History

Because I love his work, I’m including Steven Pressfield, who is known for historical accuracy, rich character development, and immersive storytelling. His novels delve into the military side of ancient Greek history and yeah, while not technically about Greek mythology, there are many heroes and heroic deeds in these stories.

• “Gates of Fire“: Experience the Battle of Thermopylae through the eyes of Spartan warriors led by King Leonidas. This gripping portrayal of Spartan culture and heroism is a must-read.
• “Tides of War“: Set during the Peloponnesian War, this novel explores the political and military intrigue of ancient Athens following the exploits of the Athenian general Alcibiades.
• “The Virtues of War“: Step into the world of Alexander the Great and witness his military campaigns and leadership style, offering insight into the life of history’s greatest conqueror.
• “Last of the Amazons“: While not strictly Greek, this novel explores Greek mythology by delving into the legendary Amazons. It blends historical fiction with mythology, offering a captivating narrative.
• “The Afghan Campaign“: Join the ranks of Alexander the Great’s army as they embark on an epic campaign in Afghanistan. Steven Pressfield’s masterful storytelling brings this lesser-known chapter of Greek history to life.

This collection of Greek mythology books spans academic insight, classic mythology, and engaging fiction, inviting you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ancient Greece and its rich mythological heritage. Happy reading!