The Best Mythology Book

The Argonautika: The Story of Jason and the Quest for the Golden Fleece
By Peter Green

The Argonautika is the story of the tale of Jason and the Golden Fleece, probably the oldest extant Greek myth. Jason, a young prince is sent on a perilous expedition and triumphs over the obstacles put in his path - from clashing rocks to fire-breathing bulls. He wins not only the Fleece but also the hand of the Medeia, the daughter of King Aietes, who rules over Kolchis He is a very modern figure, not at all Achillean. Along the way, the story speaks of vivid accounts of early exploration and colonizing ventures.

Aside from the telling of the prince's quest, the myth also hints at early exploration and colonizing ventures. The Argonauts return home via Italy after navigating several of Europe's great rivers.

The Argonautika is a lively, readable epic that captures the imagination with swift narration and quick movement. It is a smooth running and highly readable verse translation of Apollonios's epic tale of the voyage of the Argonauts. Peter Green's Argonautika is simply outstanding. The style is crisp and energetic. It prides itself on masculinity but is sympathetic to the love suffering of Medeia.