“The gods conceal from men the happiness of death, that they may endure life.”
From the myth of Romulus and Remus, the story of Mucius Scaevola to the Tarpeian Rock, Roman folklore and mythology have baffled and fascinated people for over two thousand years. Having played a crucial role in the structure of its society and culture, its stories of gods, heroes, villains, creatures and adventures have endured through homages, retellings, adaptations and reinterpretations. Closely linked with Greek and other Mediterreanan folklore from those that would eventually fall within Rome’s borders, join us at What We Reading as we present the best Roman mythology books!
Roman Mythology: A Captivating Guide To Roman Gods, Goddesses, And Mythological Creatures – Matt Clayton
Matt Clayton compiles the most fascinating stories and interesting facts about Roman Gods, Goddesses and mythical creatures in his 2017 book on Roman mythology. Split into seven distinct chapters, each section of the book begins with a unique narrative scene, helping readers visualise and bring the characters to life. From the myth of Aeneas’s son, the Etruscan influence on Roman mythology to the potential truths and foundations of these beliefs, it is a thorough read that will both inform and entertain!
Classical Mythology A To Z: An Encyclopedia Of Gods & Goddesses, Heroes & Heroines, Nymphs, Spirits, Monsters, And Places – Annette Giesecke
For an encyclopedic runthrough of everything there is to know about Greek and Roman mythology, Classical Mythology A to Z is a must-have. Written by Annette Giesecke, PhD, Professor of Classics and Chair of Ancient Greek and Roman Studies at the University of Delaware, features 700 definitions of major and minor characters who made up the mythology of the ancient world.
One of the best Roman mythology books for understanding the crossovers with other civilisations of the time, readers gain a complete understanding of antiquity-era beliefs and cults in Giesecke’s work.
Oh My Gods: A Modern Retelling Of Greek And Roman Myths – Philip Freeman
Veteran scholar and writer Philip Freeman presents a contemporary retelling of Greek and Roman myths in Oh My Gods.
Greek and Roman mythology continues to fascinate us. The characters and stories have endured for thousands of years, remaining relevant in today’s world through everything from video games, and art to movies. And, from the Battle of Troy to the tales of the Argonauts, Freeman brings the wayfaring adventurers, colourful Gods and stunning array of creatures to life through these series of modern retellings.
The Greek And Roman Myths: A Guide To The Classical Stories – Philip Matyszak
In The Greek and Roman Myths, Philip Matyszak attempts to break down the complexities of the most famous stories and explain how so many of them continue to remain influential with people today. From why a computer virus is called a Trojan Horse to what was inside Pandora’s Box, it is all covered here.
Matyszak weaves together an accessible and intriguing narrative by putting these classic stories into context. Bringing the sequences and events into the equation casts a new light on the characters and events that shape these classic tales. He also examines how they have endured and remained relevant for over two thousand years, evolving from everything ranging from Rennaissance art to modern blockbuster adaptations.
30-Second Mythology: The 50 Most Important Greek And Roman Myths, Monsters, Heroes And Gods, Each Explained In Half A Minute – Robert A. Segal
Looking for a book on Roman mythology that is more snappy? Robert Segal’s 30-Second Mythology is the book for you. In it, Segal takes the 50 most enduring tales from the antiquity age and explains their most significant details and underlying meanings.
From Hercules’ twelve labours to Narcissus’ quest for love, 30-Second Mythology breaks down all of the most compelling heroes and otherworldly monsters using no more than two pages, 300 words and one picture, it is the perfect entry to the world of mythology for the general reader. Also featuring biographies of the greatest poets and playwrights from the ancient world, Segal’s work is invaluable in explaining the enduring appeal of these characters and stories.
Greek & Roman Myths (The World’s Greatest Myths And Legends) – Jake Jackson
Dark Fantasy author Jake Jackson explores the relationship between Greek and Roman mythology in Greek & Roman Myths. He captures the meddling powers of the gods and how their epic tales of enchantment and trickery influenced the emerging cultures that would forge Western civilisation.
A part of The World’s Greatest Myths and Legends series, Greek & Roman Myths captures the mystery and drama behind the heroes, villains, and creatures that play a starring role in them. Themes of creation, love, loss, revenge and power are all prevalent, helping to provide greater insight into where these tales came from, and why they have continued to remain relevant to this day.
Antigone Rising: The Subversive Power Of The Ancient Myths – Helen Morales
Helen Morales presents a witty and inspiring take on classic Greek and Roman mythology in Antigone Rising. Morales examines how traditional tellings of the classic antiquity gloss over harmful practices such as misogyny and skip over the seeds of feminist resistance. However, through stories such as Antigone’s courageous stand against tyranny or the indestructible Caeneu, Morales illuminates how classic mythology demonstrates solidarity, catharsis and empowerment.
Through a fresh understanding of these select tales, Antigone Rising is a powerful message on how reclaiming the stories we take for granted can be used as fuel to challenge the status quo, spark resistance and rally against injustice.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
