Theogony and Works and Days

by Hesiod

Overview

Hesiod was one of the first great Greek poets, living during the 8th Century BCE: the same time period as Homer. His two classics are The Theogony and Works and Days. The Theogony is an essential work of its time. It is one of the first examples of a collection of organized, well put-together stories regarding Greek Mythology. Hesiod gives biographies of the gods and goddesses in it. Theogony functioned as an all-encompassing book on religious matters for Ancient Greeks. Works and Days is routinely referred to as one of history's first books on economics. Because of his humble beginnings, Hesiod was always concerned with work and efficient use of scarce items. He cites that the gods favor those who work hard and do not idle. Hesiod's theory is simple and often repeated in other cultures: if one works hard and tries his best, his goodwill and effort will usually bring him success and happiness.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781926487779
Publisher:	David Rehak
Publication date:	08/29/2014
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	64
File size:	186 KB

About the Author

Hesiod is believed to have lived in the eighth century B.C. Works and Days and Theogony are ascribed to him, though it isn't certain that the same poet wrote both. He is the first poet in Western literatuare to have written about himself, in this respect distinct from Homer.

Kimberly Johnson is associate professor in the Department of English at Brigham Young University.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements
Translator’s Note
Suggestions for Further Reading
Introduction
Theogony: Introduction
Works and Days: Introduction
Theogony Notes
Works and Days Notes

Editorial Reviews

"This is a very welcome publication, an authoritative translation of a major greek author at a reasonable price. Essential reading for classicists."—J. G. Hourie, Dept. of Classics, University of Edinburgh

"Readers who have no previous knowledge of Hesoid will find this an extremely accessible book, written in such a way that the non-specialist will be able to read, follow and enjoy these works. This is in part due to Professor West's excellent translations and partly due to his real and profound interest in his subject, which is further reflectd by a most informative and useful introduction."—The Greek Rreview

"So much better than the corresponding Penguin translation of Hesiod. The introduction is splendid."—P. Walcot, University College, Cardiff

"...An edition with a stimulating Introduction, a very readable translation."—JACT Review

From the Publisher