Imaginary Greece

This is a study of Greek myths in relation to the society in which they were originally told. It does not re-tell the myths; rather, it offers an analysis of how myths played a fundamental role in the lives of the Greeks. The relation between reality and fantasy is discussed by means of three case studies: the landscape, the family, and religion. Most of all, this book seeks to demonstrate how the seemingly endless variations of Greek mythology are a product of its particular people, place, and time.

• Examines the ancient context of Greek mythology rather than treating the myths as timeless symbols or telling the stories
• This book demystifies Greek mythology: Richard Buxton writes in a clear and readable style, avoiding the jargon of much myth-theory
• As important for those studying Greek cultural history as for those specialising in mythology