What’s in a name? Names are the audible first impression you receive about a person in your life or a character in a story. Names have the ability to make a statement about a person or character using just one word.

Mythological names are strong, unique, and have a story to tell. When you hear the name Zeus, you may immediately think of power, strength, and status, as Zeus is the king of the gods who ruled alongside his wife, Hera, on Mount Olympus in Greek Mythology. Mythological names have a story to tell behind the name. If you are responsible for naming a child, pet, or fictional character, you should consider using a mythological name, and we are going to tell you why.

Types of Mythology

Mythology can be Greek, Roman, Norse, or Chinese, just to name a few. These are the most popular types of mythology by region and era.

Below, we will list the best names based on mythology. These may be Greek, Roman, Norse, or Irish. We will include the origin of the name as well as who the name pertains to in mythology.

25 Best Mythological Names for Boys and Girls

You have probably heard some of these names, but there may be a few names on this list that you may have never heard before. Here are the 25 best mythological names for boys and girls in alphabetical order.

Mythological Boy Names

1. Apollo

The Greek god of music, poetry, healing, medicine, and archery, Apollo was one of the Twelve Olympians who lived on Mount Olympus, making him one of the strongest and popular gods in Greek mythology.

Apollo means “to destroy,” which is ironic considering Apollo in Greek mythology was the god of healing and medicine. In Greek mythology, Apollo has a twin sister named Artemis.

2. Ares

Ares is the Greek god of war and one of the least favored of the Twelve Olympians because of his quick temper. Ares means “to ruin, bane” because of its deep connection with the Greek god of war, but the name is also associated with great strength, courage, and willingness not to back down.

3. Atlas

Before the Twelve Olympians in Greek mythology, there were the Titans. Atlas was one of the Titans in Greek mythology whose punishment for helping the Titans fight the Olympians was to hold the earth for all eternity. Atlas means endurance or one who bears a heavy burden.

4. Conor/Connor

In Irish mythology, Connor was the king of Ulster. The spelling varies between Conor and Connor. In Irish, Conor means “lover of wolves, lover of hounds.”

5. Damon

Damon is mentioned in the Greek myth of Damon and Pythias, a story of friendship. Damon means “gentle, to tame.”

6. Dylan

In Welsh mythology, Dylan is a boy who takes to the sea. Dylan was baptized as soon as he was born to a maiden. Dylan is Welsh for “wave,” which shows its deep connection to the sea.

7. Evander

Evander was a hero in Roman mythology who brought Greek laws to Italy. He founded the city of Pallantium, which would eventually turn into Rome. Evander means “good man” or “strong man.”

8. Finn

In Irish mythology, Finn was an Irish warrior who was also mentioned in Scottish mythology as well. Finn means “white, bright, lustrous, fair, handsome, bright, and true.”

9. Hector

In both Greek and Roman mythology, Hector was a Trojan prince who lived in the city of Troy and fought against the Greeks during the Trojan War before he was killed by Achilles. Hector means “to check or restrain,” but it also has ties to bravery, courage, and competitiveness.

10. Jason

In the Greek myth Jason and the Argonauts, Jason is a Greek hero who is searching for a golden fleece. Jason is Greek and means “healer, to heal.”

11. Jasper

This may be one of the only names on this list that is not associated with a person, deity, hero, or antagonist. Jasper is actually a gemstone that is frequently mentioned throughout Greek literature. Jasper has a Persian origin and means “treasurer.”

12. Loki

In Norse mythology, Loki is the brother of Thor, the god of thunder. Loki is a trickster who could change his shape, identity, and gender. Loki means mischief, tangler, or air.

13. Odin

Continuing in Norse mythology, Odin is the father of both Thor and Loki, but he is also the father who presided over all of the Norse gods, as well as art, war, wisdom, and death. Odin means “frenzy, rage, and inspiration.”

14. Odysseus

Perhaps the most popular, well-known, and most admired Greek hero, Odysseus was a hero in Greek mythology who fought the Trojans during the Trojan War. While the name Odysseus means “to hate,” Odysseus had many relationships with Greek gods and goddesses who helped him during his journey back to his wife, Penelope, after the Trojan War.

15. Orion

Orion was the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. He was a huntsman who was often depicted with a bow and arrow. Orion has a Greek origin that means “rising in the sky, dawning.”

16. Paris

In Greek mythology, Paris is a Trojan hero who fights the Greeks in the Trojan War. Achilles, a Greek warrior in the Trojan War, killed Hector, Paris’s best friend. Therefore, Paris kills Achilles in retaliation. Paris is of Greek origin and means “defender.”

17. Thor

The Norse god of thunder is Thor, but Thor also has other powers, including the god of rain, strength, storms, and fertility. Thor means “thunder” but is also associated with great strength, beauty, and love.

18. Zeus

Perhaps the most well-known Greek god of all is Zeus. Zeus is one of the Twelve Olympians, the kind of the gods, and the god of the sky and thunder. Zeus means “sky” or “shine.”

Mythological Girl Names

19. Aphrodite

The Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite’s name means “foam.” This is because there is one myth associated with Aphrodite being born from the foam of the sea.

20. Athena

Athena was the Greek goddess of wisdom, war, crafts, and mathematics. Athena is Greek for wisdom and skill and is associated with knowledge, justice, and intellect.

21. Aurora

The Roman goddess of the dawn, Aurora, appears in both Greek and Roman myths. Her Greek counterpart is Eos. Aurora is Latin for “dawn.”

22. Brigid (Bridget)

This Irish name is associated with Irish mythology from the goddess of fire. Brigid means “power, strength, vigor, or virtue.”

23. Cassiopeia

Cassiopeia is the mother of Andromeda, whom she boasted was the most beautiful Greek woman on earth. Cassiopeia became a constellation in the sky, which is the origin behind this popular name today.

24. Luna

There is a reason the moon is often referred to as “lunar.” Luna is the Roman goddess of the moon. Luna is Latin for “moon.”

25. Penelope

Penelope is the wife of the Greek hero Odysseus. Penelope is whom Odysseus is attempting to return home to after defeating the Trojans during the Trojan War. Penelope means “weaver” or “thread of a bobbin.”

Honorable Mentions

There are many powerful and popular names related to the mythology that we wanted to include on this list. While we have listed the 25 best mythological names and characters, we felt like we would be doing a disservice to mythology if we did not include the following names and their stories:

Adonis

Adonis is the Greek god of beauty and desire in Greek mythology. Adonis is associated with handsomeness, beauty, and good looks.

Ajax

A Greek hero in Greek mythology, Ajax is also known as Ajax the Great. He is associated with bravery, strength, and courage.

Alvis

Alvis was a dwarf in Norse mythology whose name means “all-wise.” Thor’s daughter was promised to marry Alvis, so Thor made Alvis prove his wisdom in order to marry Thor’s daughter. 

Castor

One of the twins in the Gemini constellation, Castor is named in Greek mythology and means “to shine, to excel.” 

Hera

Hera is the wife of Zeus and one of the Twelve Olympians who live on Mount Olympus in Greece. Hera was the Greek goddess of women, marriage, family, and childbirth. Hera means “queen,” which is symbolic of her rule as the goddess of women and queen of the goddesses.

Hermione

While this name became popular during the Harry Potter series, Hermione actually has ties to Greek mythology. Hermione was the daughter of King Melenaus of Sparta and Helen of Troy. This Greek name means “earthly, messenger, or well-born.”

Nike

Nike is the Greek goddess of victory in Greek mythology. Her name also means “winged goddess” in addition to “victory.”

Pandora

Hephaestus was the Greek god of fire, and Pandora was the first woman he created on Zeus’s instruction. Pandora means “all gifts.”

Read: List of Greek Myths

Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed this list of the best mythological names and gained a better understanding of how these names gained their popularity and notoriety. If you are planning to name a baby, pet, or character, we suggest using one of these mythological names to tell their story.

During the Jin Dynasty, which we know today as parts of China, Mongolia, North Korea, and Vietnam, writers began creating stories related to gods and mythical creatures. The Jin Dynasty began during the Third Century and these stories continued to be written and told as time went on. Today, these writings, stories, and poems are known as Chinese Mythology.

The book The Classic of Mountains and Seas contains the largest collection of Chinese myths with 204 total mythical creatures, gods, and heroes told in the short stories all throughout the book. The book includes stories about Nüwa, the mother goddess, and other prominent deities and heroes. While this is the largest collection of short stories of Chinese myths, there are many lengthy myths that have been turned into movies, and we are going to list the best ones below.

The Best Movies Based on Popular Chinese Myths 

These are some of the most popular Chinese myths that have been turned into the movies that many enjoy today.

1.  The Monkey King (2014)

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This is the first of three movies in a trilogy series that portrays Sun Wukong as the main character. In the movie, Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, rebels against the Jade Emperor of Heaven.

Before he was named Sun Wukong, the monkey was created by a crystal that fell from Nüwa, the mother goddess. The crystal fell to the earth and landed on Mount Huaguo. Life began to form in the crystal and took the shape of a monkey. Over time, the monkey grew up and became lively, mischievous, and funloving.

The monkey is then discovered by a man named Subhuti who had been instructed by Guan Yin to train the monkey. The monkey agrees to go with Subhuti to be trained where Subhuti subsequently names the monkey Sun Wukong. Sun Wukong learns how to shape-shift both himself and others during his training. Once his training is complete, Sun Wukong returns to Mount Huaguo.

The remainder of the movie portrays Sun Wukong battling the Jade Emperor in Heaven and assessing the damage that has been done. Sun Wukong feels that he must help rebuild Heaven, but Buddha enters and tells Sun Wukong that he must sleep in the mountain, also Buddha’s hand, for 500 years. The film ends showing 500 years have passed, which sets up a sequel to be released just two years later.

2. The Monkey King 2 (2016)

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The sequel to The Monkey King (2014) begins 500 years after Sun Wukong has battled the Jade Emperor in Heaven. The movie depicts a young Buddhist monk named Tang Sanzang, who is on a journey to collect Buddha’s scriptures. On his journey, Tang Sanzang frees Sun Wukong, who then becomes indebted to protecting the monk.

The movie depicts the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, protecting the monk and leading him across the land to find the sacred scriptures of Buddha.

3. The Monkey King 3 (2018)

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Finishing out this trilogy is The Monkey King 3 that begins as the Buddhist monk, Tang Sanzang, and his disciples mistakingly enter the Womanland of Western Liang. The Womanland of Western Liang is a nation that is inhabited by women who are raised to believe that men are deceitful and evil in relation to love.

Read: The Big List of Quotes About Mythology

While in the nation, Tang Sanzang and the queen fall in love. As Tang Sanzang and his disciples attempt to leave the nation, they are surrounded by a magical net that will not allow them to leave. The only way to leave the nation through the net is through love, but this means Tang Sanzang will have to give up his quest to stay with the queen and escape the land.

4. Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons (2013)

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The Chinese myth of the Monkey King is one of the most popular, so it is no surprise that there is another movie that depicts this ancient Chinese myth. What makes this movie different than The Monkey King is that Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons combines the plots from both The Monkey King and The Monkey King 2.

The time is 110 minutes, so they have substantially condensed the details of the myth in order to fit so much material into one movie rather than breaking it up into two movies the way The Monkey King and The Monkey King 2 did.

5. Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back (2017)

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The movie picks up where Tang Sanzang and his disciples are on their quest for Tang Sanzang to tame the demons and fulfill his Buddhist roles. During the quest, Tang Sanzang learns personal struggles and has to learn to live with his many personal failures. Tang Sanzang and his disciples have to battle a house of spider women and other obstacles that also double as lessons to Tang Sanzang and his disciples.

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back focuses on Tang Sanzang and his disciples attempting to battle and tame demons while on his quest to fulfill his Buddhist calling.

Other Popular Chinese Myths 

While the Monkey King is one of the most popular stories in Chinese mythology, there are other stories that are commonly told throughout generations. These stories are often told to children or displayed as children’s books.

The Moon Rabbit

Chinese mythology often includes many of the animals of the Chinese zodiac. The Monkey King and The Moon Rabbit are examples of how Chinese mythology includes the animals of the Chinese zodiac.

In The Moon Rabbit myth, the moon rabbit is a mythical creature who lives on the moon. Ancient Chinese myths believe the dark surfaces of the moon in the shape of a rabbit or hare are, in fact, the moon rabbit of the moon.

The moon rabbit has a mortar and pestle in his hands where he is creating an ancient dish, though the dishes vary between regions of the myth. Some myths believe that the moon rabbit is creating rice cakes, while other myths believe the moon rabbit is making medicine.

The Legend of the White Snake

This legend is also known as Madame White Snake and tells the story of a boy, Xu Xian, who ingests a substance that almost immediately nauseates him. He vomits the medicine into a lake where a white female snake appears and ingests the pills that the boy vomits. The madame snake wants to gain spiritual powers that the pills possess because a nearby turtle is jealous of her luck. As the pills are immortality pills, the madame snake becomes immortal and is eternally grateful to the boy for expelling the pills into the lake.

The madame snake travels the human realm and discovers a green snake who is enslaved to a beggar. The madame snake feels sorrow for the green snake and transforms into a human to save the green snake.

The green snake is now indebted to the white snake and feels that he should follow the white snake forever. While as a human, the white snake adopts the name Bai Suzhen and coincidentally meets Xu Xian and marries him. The green snake has adopted the name Xiao Qing.

Read: Greek Mythology Gods: Zeus, The God Of Thunder

After their marriage, Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen open a medicine shop. The turtle has discovered how to change shapes the way the madame snake has, so he turns into a Buddhist monk named Fa Hai. Fa Hai approaches Xu Xian and convinces him that his wife must drink a special wine during the festival in which they are participating.

Xu Xian offers the wine to his wife, where the wine makes her expel the harmful creature that she possessed which is the white snake. Xu Xian was heartbroken and shocked that his wife was a serpent so he immediately died of a heart attack.

The madame white snake and green snake have now begun to travel to Mount Emei to find the cure to revive her husband. She is able to revive her husband, and now Fa Hai has to come up with a new plan to defeat the lucky Bai Suzhen.

Fai Hai decides to imprison Xu Xian so that Bai Suzhen will attempt to rescue him once more. This time, Bai Suzhen is pregnant and she is unable to rescue her husband. Xu Xian is able to escape the imprisonment and reunites with Bai Suzhen in time for him to witness his son, Xu Mengjiao, be born.

Read: Why is Greek Mythology Important? (Beyond The Stories)

After he is born, Bai Suzhen is captured by Fa Hai and imprisoned in the Leifeng Pagoda, which is a tall tower in China. As time continues, Xu Mengjiao tests for imperial examinations and passes. The examination is difficult, but Xu Mengjiao earns the title of the top scholar.

As he returns to Hanzhou to pay tribute to his mother at the Leifeng Pagoda, the heavens are touched by his devotion to his mother and decide to free Bai Suzhen from imprisonment. The family is finally reunited.

Conclusion

Chinese mythology has been told for centuries and dates back to approximately 220 AD. The stories have been created into books and movies that are told and shown today. These are a few of the best Chinese mythology movies that portray Chinese mythology, heroes, and short stories. 

There are far too many choices when it comes to narrowing down a list of the best books on the Vikings and Norse Mythology. So much has been written on this popular topic yet, all decent and readable books.

Read: Big List Of Greek Myths

There are a few that have certainly held the test of time. Many get re-released with a new forward, and some are standards on colleges. We understand many people don’t know a lot about the topic, so here is a list suitable for those getting started or with a healthy curiosity on the Norse and Viking mythology.

Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs by John Lindow

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Professor Lindow’s Norse Mythology mostly consists of an alphabetical encyclopedia of some of the most important personages, cosmological locations, and other such phrases in Norse mythology.

This book explores the magical myths and legends of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Viking-Age Greenland. It outlines the way the prehistoric tales and beliefs from these regions that have remained embedded in the imagination of the world and still read about today.

It begins with an introduction that helps put Scandinavian mythology into place in history. Then, it continues with a chapter that explains the meaning of mythic time.

The third section takes an in-depth explanation of each of the mythological terms. These selections identify particular deities and giants, as well as the places where they live. It also gives us the varied and wily means by which they had to forge their existence and their battles with one another.

Thor, one of the most powerful gods, specializes in killing giants using a hammer made for him by dwarfs, not to mention myriad trolls, ogres, humans, and a myriad of strange animals.

There is the ongoing struggle between the gods, who create the cosmos, and the jötnar, or giants, who aim to destroy it. These enchanted worlds where this mythology takes place, we have turbulent rivers, majestic mountains, dense forests, plus storms, with harsh winters, eagles, ravens, salmon, and snakes.

These all take place in a land that closely resembles Scandinavia. These stories span from the inception of the universe and the birth of human beings to the universe’s destruction and the mythic future.

Enjoy these tales of creation and destruction, death and rebirth, gods, and heroes. Not only entertaining, but they will offer insight into the relationship between Scandinavian myth, history, and culture.

The Poetic Edda by Jackson Crawford

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The Poetic Edda is a work of vision and overwhelming beauty. There are precious few rivals for this book. It’s a collection of Old Norse mythical and heroic poems, all composed by anonymous poets in Iceland or Scandinavia during the Viking Age and shortly thereafter.

Translated into English, these amazing texts from a 13th-century Icelandic manuscript have such historical, mythological, and literary importance. They contain the better part of the information that survives today about the gods and heroes of pre-Christian Scandinavians, their unique vision of the beginning and end of the world, and more.

This modern version of these poems is authoritative and fluent and even very often very gripping. Each one with their own individual headnotes and complementary general introduction, they supply today’s readers with most of what they need to know in order to understand and appreciate the beliefs, motivations, and values of the Vikings.

Taken together, these poems comprise our single most important source of information for Norse mythology and religion.

Gods and Myths of Northern Europe by H.R. Ellis Davidson

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This book is ideal for beginners who want a scholarly take on the Norse religion.

This book describes the pre-Christian religion of the Norse and other Germanic peoples in a manner that relies less on the retelling of the stories than on the historical religion of which the tales were only one part.

It paints a picture of pre-Christian Germanic religion that is very thorough and nuanced than most books of this nature — one of the most widely-read books on the Viking Age.

Tiw, Woden, Thunor, Frig are ancient northern deities. Their names are the actual days of our week.  This new study, which is one of the first popular treatments of the subject to appear in English for many years.

This fascinating work is that of a scholar who has long specialized in Norse and Germanic mythology. She describes the more familiar gods of war, of fertility, of the sky and the sea and the dead, and also discusses those puzzling figures of Norse mythology – Heimdall, Balder, and Loki.

All these deities were worshipped in the Viking Age, and the author has endeavored to relate their cults to daily life and to see why these pagan beliefs gave way in time to the Christian faith.

Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman

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Introducing an instant classic by master storyteller Neil Gaiman. His version of the great Norse myths.

Neil Gaiman has long been inspired by ancient mythology in creating the fantastical realms of his fiction. Now he turns his attention back to the source, presenting a bravura rendition of the great northern tales.

Although he retells only a select few of the dozens of surviving Viking myths, his choices include almost all of the most important ones. These include the creation of the universe and its cataclysmic downfall, as well as some that are particularly odd and funny.

By limiting himself to a particular portion of the myths, he’s able to flesh out those myths in a grand, novelistic form, which is certainly one of the book’s greatest strength. He turns some of the greatest stories in world literature into a great modern novel in its own right.

Gaiman stays true to the myths with the major Norse pantheon: Odin, who is the highest of the heap, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin’s son, incredibly strong yet lacking wisdom of some of the other gods; and Loki, son of a giant and blood brother to Odin, he is a trickster and incredible manipulator.

Gaiman retells these primeval stories that begin with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds and delves into the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants. Once, when Thor’s hammer is stolen, Thor must disguise himself as a woman, which is difficult with his beard and huge appetite to steal it back.

Also, the tale in which the blood of Kvasir, the most shrewd of all gods, is turned into a mead that infuses drinkers with poetry. The work reaches its end in Ragnarok, the twilight of the gods and the rebirth of a new time and people.

Through Gaiman’s deft and witty prose emerge these gods with their fiercely competitive natures, their susceptibility to being duped and to duping others, and their tendency to let passion ignite their actions, making these long-ago myths breathe pungent life again.

The Viking Spirit: An Introduction to Norse Mythology and Religion by Daniel McCoy

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The Viking Spirit gives us an introduction to Norse mythology like no other. Daniel McCoy, the creator of the popular website Norse Mythology for Smart People.

While this book is written to scholarly standards, but in a simple, clear, and entertaining style that’s easy to understand. It doesn’t read like a scholarly textbook, but rather a gripping book of tales. It’s actually ideal for people new to the field who want a great book that covers a lot of ground.

In this book, the author undertakes the retellings of 34 epic Norse myths. Rather comprehensive and more than any other book in the field. There is also a complete overview of the fascinating Viking religion, of which Norse mythology was a major part.

Here you will read all about the Vikings’ gods and goddesses, what their concept of fate was, and their views on the afterlife and their moral code. Also covered is how they believed the universe was structured and how they practiced and understood their religion. There is also a look at the role that magic played in their lives, plus so much more.

With this book’s inclusion of the latest groundbreaking research in the field, The Viking Spirit is the ultimate introduction to the timeless splendor of Norse mythology and religion for the 21st Century. It’s perfect for those wanting to read the stories in a readable and well-written manner.

A Tale as Old as Time

Many of the plots and themes we see today on our televisions and movie screens are simply the retelling of the old mythology tales and stories. The stories themselves have been told and retold, but each of these books offers their own unique perspective and version of the story.

Read: The Big List of Quotes About Mythology

Some add very modern touches, and some like to add wit and humor to make the characters seem more real and well-rounded. They are not running around in horned helmets and burning ships full of their fresh kills.

While there certainly were a lot of battles and conflict, the real Norse story is far more complex. It takes place on a global stage, from North America to Russian and from the Arctic and beyond.

We all need to escape. Even sometimes, our own dreams are clouded with our lives and make them unrestful. To escape, we can turn to books on Mythology. What a wonderful world it is in our minds, a place where we can escape, learn and maybe understand a place foreign yet familiar.

There are more books available than we can keep up with. Here are a few books we really like and hope you can find some enjoyment, entertainment, and even solace in their stories.

The Iliad by Homer

Translated by Robert Fagles

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This epic poem goes way back to the ninth century B.C., Homer’s timeless poem still vividly depicts the horror and heroism of men and gods wrestling with huge emotions and battling while surrounded by devastation and destruction. It follows through to the tragic conclusion of the Trojan War.

The introduction by Renowned classicist Bernard Knox notes that although the violence of the Iliad is grim and relentless, it melds with both images of civilized life and also a determination and need for peace.

The Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus

Translated by Robin Hard

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The Library of Greek Mythology, also known as the Bibliotheca, is the only work of this type that survived from classical antiquity. This work attempts to provide a comprehensive and unique guide of much of Greek mythology. It is one of the main ancient sources that scholars have used to piece together and attempt to understand Greek mythology.

The material starts with the beginning of the universe, the birth of the gods, and the creation of the world. It moves to the later exploits of the gods, and the heroic deeds of heroes like Hercules, Jason, Perseus, Theseus, and the men and women of the Trojan War.

Robin Hard’s translation lends a modern and accessible take on the stories and makes for easier and pleasurable reading.

Myth and Philosophy: A Contest of Truths by Lawrence J. Hatab

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Hatab’s work is comprehensive and far more than an interpretative study. It is inspired by Nietzsche and Heidegger. It looks at the historical relationship between myth and philosophy in ancient Greece.

More than just a case study, this book’s conclusions claim to a defense of the accuracy of myth against a wholly rational or objective view of the world. It’s well written and provides much to think about.

The Odyssey by Homer

Translated by Robert Fagles

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Back to Homer, his second work and his second epic poem is very long and is based on a single topic. That of Odysseus’ 10-year struggle to return to his home after the Trojan War. Odysseus has to battle mystical creatures and face the wrath of the gods in his long journey.

Meanwhile, his wife Penelope and his son Telemachus manage to hold off numerous suitors vying for Penelope’s hand and Ithaca’s throne for long enough for Odysseus to finally and safely return. The Odyssey concludes with Odysseus winning a contest to prove his true identity, slaughtering the many suitors, and reclaiming his rightful place on the throne of Ithaca.

 The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

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Perhaps a great place to start for the person unfamiliar with Greek mythology. This book has it all. The labors of Hercules, Midas and his golden touch, the voyage of the Argonauts, Theseus and the minotaur, the Trojan War and Odysseus’s journey home. They all come together into one epic and unforgettable story.

The Greek Myths is the product of years of research and careful observation. But, what makes this collection a standout is the imaginative and poetic style of the retelling of these classic stories. A novelist and poet in his own right,  Graves tells these fantastic stories of Ancient Greece in a style that is both compelling and easy for everyone to understand.

Each story is accompanied by the authors’ own interpretation of the original story, providing a deeper meaning to each and giving a reader an amazing insight into the ways and development of the old Greek world.

 Metamorphoses by Ovid

Translated by Charles Martin

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If you are anxious to tuck into some poems about changes, then this epic poem will suit you just fine. 15 books worth of poems and stories, the work is a collection of mythological and legendary stories, many of them taken from Greek sources, in which change or transformation plays a role, even a small one. Hence, Metamorphoses.

The stories are told in chronological order from the creation of the world to the death of Julius Caesar. The first metamorphosis, of chaos into or leading to the last, the culminating metamorphosis. They follow the same theme, but all stories are stand-alone.

The importance of the theme of metamorphosis in mythology is of passion. Passion is the essential theme of the poem, and the work is also noted for its wit, rhetorical brilliance, and narrative, and it’s picturesque descriptions.

 The Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton

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Not only is this volume full of fascinating and highly detailed stories, but it also contains well over 300 illustrations. Many of them in color, these pictures range from artifacts from ancient Greece, photos of Greek landscapes and classic paintings of scenes from Greek mythology.

This straightforward, easy-to-read book has the retelling of classic tales with details of their surroundings. Stories of war, gods, family tales, myths and more throughout the ages. Many of these stories are still being rewritten and found in popular movies and television shows today.

Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton

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This popular and timeless book of mythology is a comprehensive introduction to Greek mythology that reads like great literature. First published in 1942, it has always been the go-to book for fans and new readers alike.

If you have no other information on mythology, this is an excellent place to start. You don’t need any deeper understanding as Hamilton guides you through the retelling of these classic tales effortlessly.

For 75 years, readers have chosen this book over and over again, to discover the thrilling, enchanting, and fascinating world of Western mythology. It takes you from Odysseus’s adventure and his journey to the Norse god Odin’s effort to postpone the final day of doom.

Mythology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK

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Here, you can discover 80 of the world’s greatest myths and characters, from the gods of Greek mythology to the Norse heroes. These stories are all retold and explained with engaging text and detailed graphics. Follow along from early creation to classical hero narratives and the recurring theme of the afterlife and change.

More than just stories of mythology, you will discover the meanings behind the stories, getting to the heart of the importance of mythology and what it means to different cultures worldwide. Revisit Zeus, the god of the sky and ruler of the Olympian gods, and Loki, the cunning trickster with an amazing ability for causing havoc, helped by his ability to change shape and even gender.

The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt by Richard H. Wilkinson

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This popular book on mythology takes us to ancient Egypt. Most of us know a few stories and facts about ancient Egypt. Things like pharaohs, Cleopatra, and the pyramid mostly come to mind. Explore lavish tomb paintings and imposing temple reliefs and then move to humble household shrines for loved ones.

This book looks at the evolution, worship, and eventual decline of the numerous gods and goddesses. A comprehensive and knowledgeable guide to the gods and goddesses that are at the heart of Ancient Egyptian religion and society.

It takes us through the evolution, worship, and eventual decline of a huge pantheon, from minor figures such as Bas, Babi, Ba-Pef and Taweret to the all-powerful Osiris, Amun, Hathor, Isis, and Re. Complete with illustrations.

Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

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New York Times bestseller, Dr. Estes has created a new lexicon for describing the female psyche. Fertile and life-giving, it is a psychology of women in the truest sense, a knowing of the soul

 Her name is Wild Woman, but she is an endangered species. The author shows how women’s vitality can be restored through what she calls “psychic archeological digs” into the ruins of the female unconscious — a dig of a different kind.

By using multicultural myths, fairy tales, folklore, and original stories, Dr. Estes shows women how to reconnect with the healthy, instinctual, and visionary attributes of the Wild Woman archetype.

Read: Big List Of Greek Myths

A Journey Begins

We hope that some of these selections will help you start your new journey into the wonderful world of mythology. We tried to find the most interesting books on mythology that are interesting but also popular. Many of these stories can be read and reread, always evoking emotions we need at the time.

Please feel free to contact us any of your favorite books on mythology that you feel would be an asset to our readers. There are so many to choose from. It was difficult to pick just a few.

Indian Mythology is full of intriguing stories that will leave its readers enchanted. Beautiful dialogue rich with characters with divine powers, magic, and sacred religion, these books will certainly leave your mind rich with a culture full of imagination and history.

There is an abundance of Indian mythology for those wanting to seek out their charming tales. This is a culture that has always been rich in mythology with tales of Mahabharata and Ramayana but has seen an increase in fantasy books in the past decade.

Those who seek tales from Indian mythology have happened upon the right place. We have compiled a list of the best Indian Mythology books for those in need of a fascinating story full of cultural history and imagination.

Read: Big Lists of Greek Myths

In no specific order, here are the best Indian Mythology books for you to enjoy.

1. The Palace of Illusions – Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

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This bestselling author and poets tell us the story of Mahabharata, one of the Sanskrit epic sagas of ancient India. This book narrates this classic tale from Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, frame of reference.

A suspenseful story, Divakaruni takes on an insightful journey through a time of history weaved with myth and magic. Draupadi is a fiery female on a quest to reclaim the birthright of her five husbands, leading us on a path of love, war, and magic.

The Palace of Illusions is a fantastic starting point for those wanting to dip their toes into Indian Mythology.

2. My Gita – Devdutt Pattankaik

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Not to be mistaken for a translation, this is Dr. Pattanaik’s take on the most famous book of Hinduism. If understanding the Gita, ‘ The Song of God’ and it’s 700-verse Sanskrit scripture is something that intrigues you, Dr. Pattanaik’s thematic arrangement and precise breakdown is a perfect read.

In a world that chooses argument over a conversation, Dr. Pattanaik focuses on the importance of how Krishna helps Arjuna to understand and comprehend rather than make judgments.

Accompanied by illustrations and simple diagrams, this book was written and drawn by this master storyteller, is an engaging and informative read, and should definitely be on your list if you enjoy Sanskrit.

3. Asura: Tale of the Vanquished – Anand Neelakantan

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A fresh perspective on the ancient tale of Ramayana, this book focuses on Ravana’s perspective and his way of looking at life. It is another look at the age-old epic of Ramayana and provides an alternative narrative between the King of Lanka and a common man.

There is a lot in Indian Mythology regarding Rama, the incarnation of God, who defeated the evil Ravana, but nothing from his perspective.

This unconventional book is unique in that it takes out all the divine elements and instead uses real-world explanations in this tale about victory and defeat.

This is an enthralling read for those who are after a take from the other side of this ancient story.

4. The Pregnant King – Devdutt Pattanaik

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Another by Dr. Pattanaik, this is a story set in the backdrop of the Mahabharata, following Yuvanashva, a childless King, who makes the mistake of drinking a magic potion intended to make his queens pregnant.

Rich the complexity of Hindu mythology, this is a great modern story about lines being blurred between men and women. Society has set many rules for its inhabitants, and this book helps us to question those.

This book is incredibly intriguing and unique in its content of a lesser-known tale. This story is barely remembered in the history of Indian mythology, but here, Dr. Pattanaik takes us on Yuvanashva’s journey with incredible detail regarding his social and political struggles.

5. Karna’s Wife: The Outcast’s Queen – Kavita Kane

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Another tale of an unsung character, this book narrates the story of Karna and his wife, Uruvi. Kane brings a unique perspective in the genre of magic realism, following a story of love and it’s social implications.

It brings with it many twists and turns and will provide an enthralling read you won’t be able to book down until finished.

If you are familiar with the story of Mahabharata, this retelling through Karma’s wife’s eyes will impact you wholeheartedly. It is rare to find a book told from the perspective of a woman in mythology, and this remarkable tale shows that behind every successful man is a woman.

6. Prince of Ayodhya: Book One – Ashok K. Banker

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An epic retelling of Ramayana, this is a fantastical story of Rama, Prince of Ayodhya, and his quest to prevent the prophecy of his homeland becoming a wasteland of ashes and blood. 

Banker provides the reader with an authentic retelling of the classic tale, rich with Sanskrit and Hindi words. He provides a glossary at the end of the book to help those with a lack of knowledge in these terms and words, making it an informative read also.

It is a more action-oriented retelling of Ramayana, providing oomph in a tale most only know as an ancient religious one. A great read for young and old.

7. The Hindus: An Alternative History – Wendy Doniger

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An engrossing narrative account full of history and myth, this profound work is surrounded in controversy. The cause of many debates amongst Indian readers, it gives many different perspectives in order to help readers understand Indian mythology.

American Indologist, Doniger, offers a new understanding of Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest major religions. It is a fascinating read for those intrigued by the controversy of this book and also for those after fairly dense prose regarding Hinduism.

We recommend for those studying the religion, in order to look at another perspective. Her choices can be idiosyncratic, but this book is one of a kind.

8. Myth and Reality: Studies in the Formation of Indian Culture – D.D Kosambi

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Kosambi provides a set of essays overviewing early Indian History. He provides a historical connection to the formation of Indian myths.

Kosambi created this refreshing range of material through careful study of literacy courses and impeccable fieldwork, resulting in a compilation of essays carefully analyzing Indian tradition.

Logical interpretation of the origins of Indian mythology, Kosambi raises and solves questions that are extremely important to those interested in the study of Indology, including the significance of the Pandharpur pilgrimage, the data of Karle Caves amongst other things.

This is a fantastic read for any scholar wanting less fiction and more analysis of Indian mythology.

9. The Immortals of Meluha – Amish Tripathi

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The first in a series of 3, this story is based in Meluha and follows a Tibetan named Shiva, believed to be their savior Neelkanth. Facing severe perils, the Meluhans believe Shiva will triumph over their enemies and restore peace back into their homeland. Shiva is drawn suddenly into his destiny, and this enthralling epic saga about vengeance is a fantastic read.

A highly rated read, this novel is pure fiction and is akin to the likes of Tolkien, Terry Pratchett.

The other two books in the series are The Secrets of Nagas and The Oath of Vayaputras.

10. The Krishna Key – Ashwin Sanghi

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A suburb blend of history and mythology, this epic adventure tale comes highly recommended.

This tale provides its readers with extensive information about Vedas, one of the most ancient Hindu scriptures. Following a history professor who has to prove his innocence against a murder charge, this thriller mixed with mythology is the perfect read for anyone who enjoys modern-day literature sprinkled with ancient myths.

Bestselling author, Sanghi is considered to be a frontrunner in the historical and mythological retelling. This is a book that is no different.

11. Mahabharata – William Buck

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Considered one of the longest epics ever, this is a translation and presentation of the ancient Indian epic poem, Mahabharata.

Originally in Sanskrit, Buck decodes the poem about the struggle between the Kurus and the Pandavas.

Historical fiction can be a bore, but this is read that is captivating from start to finish, peppered with the ancient tale people obsessed with Indian mythology will know and love.

If you enjoy this read, Buck has also written a novel called Ramayana, another retelling of an ancient story, and equally as epic.

Other Suggestions

Mahabharata Podcast

Like the title suggest this is mainly about the Pandavas and the Kauravas, who are incarnations of the gods and demons. It covers a lot of myths and is a great introduction to listening about Hindu mythology and all it has to offer.

A Comic Book – Gods and Goddesses by Various Authors

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If you are looking for something for your children to learn about Indian mythology than this is the book for you.

This special edition novel brings in stories from countless authors all about the Gods and Goddesses of India. A fun way to introduce someone to mythology!

Read: 39+ Joseph Campbell Quotes (Myth, Symbol, Bliss and Purpose)

If you managed to scroll to the end of this, we hope you’ve written down some books rich with the enchanting history of Indian Mythology. There’s a whole world of Gods and Goddesses, heroes and villains, retribution and betrayal to dive into, a never-ending collection of fantastic books at your disposal, but these are a great starting point.