Theogony / Works and Days by HesiodMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Disclosure: I did not read Work and Days. This is a review of the 30 or so odd pages that make up Theogony.
Theogony is fun to read. With the awareness that this is an ancient text, the characterisations of the immortals and mortals, the larger themes and the incredible details in terms of names and lineages is an experience of its own. It is difficult to liken it to other books I have read, and in that, it is refreshingly direct. If you know a little Greek Mythology, you will find this a rich experience of delving into a historical source to catch a glimpse of how Greeks may have viewed their own gods. Further, it makes for a good comparison and contrast with Homer.
As a bonus, you get absolutely metal phrases like "Achilles Lionheart, breaker of men". Awesome phrases and sentences that give the entire thing a sense of power and gravitas.
Good book.
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