96 pages • 3 hours read
Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths
Fiction | Short Story Collection | YA | Published in 1966
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Introduction
Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths
- Genre: Fiction; young adult mythology retellings
- Originally Published: 1966
- Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 800L; grades 7-12
- Structure/Length: 4 parts; 26 chapters plus introduction; approx. 240 pages; approx. 6 hours, 32 minutes on audio
- Protagonist and Central Conflict: Evslin’s retellings of popular Greek myths feature stories about Zeus, Hera, and other gods and goddesses; monsters and supernatural beings like Medusa; and heroes such as Prometheus.
- Potential Sensitivity Issues: Violence; death; incestuous relationships; sexual violence
Bernard Evslin, Author
- Bio: 1922-1993; born in New York; attended Rutgers University; pursued an early career in screenwriting and producing as well as playwriting; wrote over 70 books, many for young adults; received the National Education Association Award (1961)
- Other Works: The Greek Gods (1966); The Adventures of Ulysses (1969); Hercules (1984)
CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:
- Moderation and Restraint as Ideals
- The Wisdom of Aligning a Weaker Power With a Stronger Power
- Love as the Most Powerful Force
STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:
- Explore background information on Ancient Greek culture, religion, and mythology to increase their engagement with and understanding of the stories in the collection.
- Read/study paired texts and other brief resources to deepen their understanding of themes related to Moderation and Restraint as Ideals, The Wisdom of Aligning a Weaker Power With a Stronger Power, and Love as the Most Powerful Force.
