Medea

Gods and Heroes of the Ancient World

by Emma Griffiths

Giving access to the latest critical thinking on the subject, Medea is a comprehensive guide to sources that paints a vivid portrait of the Greek sorceress Medea, famed in myth for the murder of her children after she is banished from her own home and replaced by a new wife. Emma Griffiths brings into focus previously unexplored themes of the Medea myth, and provides an incisive introduction to the story and its history. Studying Medea’s ‘everywoman’ status – one that has caused many intricacies of her tale to be overlooked – Griffiths places the story in ancient and modern context and reveals fascinating insights into ancient Greece and its ideology, the importance of life, the role of women and the position of the outsider. In clear, user-friendly terms, the book situates the myth within analytical frameworks such as psychoanalysis, and Griffiths highlights Medea’s position in current classical study as well as her lasting appeal.

Genres: Mythology, Nonfiction

168 pages, Paperback

First published January 13, 2005

Reviews

[Ruby Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book I’ve given 5 stars this year because it was actually perfect for my EPQ. It brought together historical and modern interpretations of Medea so beautifully, covering literally every theme with detail and nuance. I filled my copy with post it notes and I’ve come away with my head swirling with thoughts and things to add to my essay. It was one of those things that made me feel so excited to study Classics one day and made me go full nerd mode.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fascinating and an excellent primer on Medea's mythological biography and associated scholarship. I am a student of the eighteenth century (and am writing on Medea's reception/representation in art and drama) and as a relative beginner to classics, I found this to be accessible and infinitely helpful.

[S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really handy introduction to Medea. A lot is covered, including the scholarship surrounding her myths and the literature she appears in, the issues that arise when studying these myths and ancient works, and Medea's reception in the post-Classical world. As with other books in this series, there are plenty of 'further reading' suggestions at the end.

[Sam Grace]

But not at UA ...

[Jess Grayson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction to Medea, great scope, but was slightly repetitive at times.