A Book of Myths

by Jean Lang

Overview

Within this book are timeless stories from Ancient Greece such as Icarus, the young man whose infamous flight became a cautionary tale on folly and the heeding of advice, and Orpheus, the fabled musician whose wife Euridice encounters great peril. Adventure stories, such as The Caledonian Hunt, bring stunning displays of action while the exploits of ancient and Godly heroes such as Perseus and his winged horse relay the elemental power with which the ancient Gods were attributed.Later in the text we find several representative examples of Nordic myth - the valiant story of Roland the Paladin and Freya, the formidable Queen of the Northern Gods are told. The epic story of Beowulf is rendered here in prose form, and all allude to the furious capacities of the Nordic Gods.Compiled and authored by Greek historian and scholar Jeanie Lang, the accounts within this text combine superb research with strong readability, with the freshness and originality of each story easy to behold and enjoy whether you be a student of the classics or a general enthusiast for enduring ancient mythology. (Goodreads)

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783987444296
Publisher:	Otbebookpublishing
Publication date:	07/15/2022
Series:	Classics To Go
Sold by:	Bookwire
Format:	eBook
Pages:	264
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Jean Lang, a luminary of early 20th-century literature, was born in 1875 in Scotland. Her work is celebrated for its vivid storytelling and deep engagement with folklore and mythology, reflecting a profound understanding of cultural narratives. Lang's writing career flourished during a time when the world was rapidly changing, and she adeptly captured the essence of timeless tales, making them accessible to contemporary audiences.Lang was part of a literary family; her brother, Andrew Lang, was a renowned folklorist and writer. This familial connection enriched her literary pursuits, providing a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. Jean Lang's contributions went beyond mere retellings; she imbued her works with a unique sensitivity to the human condition, exploring themes of heroism, morality, and the supernatural.Her influence on contemporary writers is notable, as she bridged the gap between academic folklore studies and popular literature. Lang's work inspired a renewed interest in mythological narratives, paving the way for modern fantasy genres. Her ability to weave complex characters and intricate plots has been lauded by literary critics and readers alike.Despite her significant contributions, Lang's life was not without controversy. She often faced criticism for her interpretations of traditional myths, with some scholars arguing that she took creative liberties that strayed from original sources. However, these debates only underscored her role in transforming and revitalizing mythological storytelling.Jean Lang championed the revolutionary idea that myths are living entities, evolving with each retelling. Her legacy endures, reminding us that the stories of the past continue to shape our present and future.
Jeanie Lang (November 6, 1867 - 1932), was a turn of the twentieth century Scottish author who was introduced to the literary world by her uncle Andrew, who was the first to translate The Odyssey into English. Her first book was, not surprisingly, a reworking of The Odyssey and The Iliad into a version suitable for younger readers.