Interpreting the Images of Greek Myths: An Introduction - Softcover

Junker, Klaus

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521720079 ISBN 13: 9780521720076

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2011

Synopsis

From the age of Homer until late antiquity the culture of ancient Greece and Rome was permeated by images of Greek myths. Gods and heroes were represented as statues, on vase and wall paintings, on temples, on sarcophagi as well as in other media. This 2011 book provides a concise introduction to the interpretation of the images of Greek myths. Its main aim is to make the pictorial versions of the myths comprehensible on their own terms. Ancient artists were well aware of the potential - but also the limitations - of these 'silent' images and of the strategies that made them 'speak' to the audience/viewer. The book explains the theoretical and methodological issues at stake and discusses in detail a number of case studies. It will be useful and stimulating for all undergraduate and graduate students taking courses in classical mythology and ancient art.

About this title

Review:

'Junker's work is an excellent tool for myth classes, both for undergraduates and graduates, since he stimulates discussion in his text and gives good suggestions for further reading in the bibliography ... [This book] leaves the reader with many thoughts that yield a fresh and well- instructed way to view myths depicted in ancient art.' Eric M. Moormann, Bryn Mawr Classical Review

Book Description:

In ancient Greece and Rome textual and pictorial versions of myths coexisted. This 2011 book provides a concise introduction to the interpretation of the images of Greek myths and describes the strategies ancient artists used in order to instruct and persuade.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 0521720079
• ISBN 13: 9780521720076
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240