Ancient Greek Beliefs

Author: Midwest Book Review

Date: Mar 4, 2008 22:38

The Mythology Shelf

Ancient Greek Beliefs

Perry L. Westmoreland

Lee and Vance Publishing Company

511 East San Ysidro Bouevard, #432, San Ysidro, CA 92173

Columbine Communications & Publications (publicity)

16707 Saddle Court, Sonora, CA 95370

9780979324819, $44.99

A massive 827-page descriptive and analytical history of Hellenic myths, folklore, religious beliefs and practices, "Ancient Greek Beliefs" by Perry L. Westmoreland is a comprehensive, impressively researched, superbly organized and written body of work which is divided into three major sections: Greek Mythology, The Ancient Greeks; and Conclusions. Individual chapters are devoted to early Hellenic creation myths, a descriptive roster of the Greek gods and goddesses associated with Mount Olympus, and an informative roster of other Greek immortals ranging from Aristeas to Xanthus. Also covered are other immortal groups of beings such as Daemons and demons, the Fates, the Graces, Nymphs, River Gods, and others. Then there are the mortals such as Heracles and Adonis who were raised to the status of gods. Also covered are tributes to the gods, Greek heroes, and special mortals and mortal groups identified in ancient Greek histories and myths such as King Midas and the Amazons. Of special note are the chapters on Ghosts and 'Abridged Stores of Greek Mythologies', Seers and Philosophers, and the 'Ancient Greek Mysteries'. This first major section concludes with informative 'Timelines in Mythology'. The second section of "Ancient Greek Beliefs" offers an informed and informative survey and overview of early Greek history including the city states of Athens and Sparta, the Greco-Persian war, athletic games, coinage, islands, language, people, environments, social strata, and more. The third and final section covers ancient Hellenic religious beliefs. Enhanced with the inclusion of an extensive glossary, "Ancient Greek Beliefs" is a monumental work of considerable scholarship and expertise which is especially recommended for school and community Hellenic Studies library collections, as well as supplemental reading lists for students and non-specialist general readers with an interest in ancient Greek history, culture, philosophy, and religion.