Forrest Webber

The world of Norse mythology is endlessly fascinating. There have been countless takes on Viking myths, from the TV screen to movie magic to a legion of books regarding Nordic lore.

And! Norse mythology is not all raiding and looting.

There are a fair amount of Viking stereotypes that have been warped in retellings; their stories are far more complex and fantastical than what we are given. There are plenty of outlandish heroes, gods, trolls and other sorts to delve into.

From dramatic tales of love and loss to stories of a well-worn traveler on a fantastical adventure, the astronomical number of tales at your disposal can be overwhelming at best. Such enchanting Nordic lore has been world recognized to captivate scholars and spiritualists alike.

Those who seek wisdom and tales from the Vikings need to look no further. We have compiled a list of the best Norse mythology books for those hoping to navigate the lands of Asgard and beyond.

In no specific order, here are the best Norse Mythology books for you to sink your spears into.

1. Norse Mythology –  Neil Gaiman

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Of course, this has to be first on our list!

Acclaimed writer Neil Gaiman is one of the most popular fiction writers in terms of ancient mythology.

Gaiman has created a fantastical realm in his work, staying true to the myths of Odin and his two sons, Thor and Loki. He breathes a newfound life into these ancient tales making this read perfect for anyone ready to go down a dark, exciting path full of adventure and lore.

Norse Mythology is an exciting retelling of Asgard but does not stray far from the accuracy of the stories we know and love. His work is original and interesting.

Gaiman encourages his tales to be told around a campfire, which is exactly how they read. Daring stories you would want to share with others. You’ll find this book is one to get lost in, one without footnotes other mythology books like to include.

If you enjoy this book, find his other ‘American Gods, ’ which has also been turned into a TV show.

2. The D’Aulaires’ Book of Norse Myths – Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire

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Although this book is more for the younger audience, it is a great introduction to Norse Mythology.

Accompanied by exquisite illustrations, this version is a tad cleaner than most Norse myths making it a great bedtime read for children. This initiation into Nordic lore will teach you all about the classic stories of Odin, his son Thor, the God of Thunder and his adopted son, Loki, the god of trickery.

It’s a lighter way to brush up on your Norse mythology if you are after something not too heavy. You’ll learn all about the famous Valkyrie maidens, as well as Ragnarok, the famed day of reckoning.

Even if you don’t like children’s books, the beautiful illustrations will help paint the fantastical Northern landscape for your imagination.

3. We Are Our Deeds – Eric Wodening

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If you are after a hearty read full of Viking culture and Norse Mythology, this is the book for you.

Eric Wodening delves deep into the ethics and virtues of these ancient people in hopes to really understand their mindset. A unique take on Heathen Philosophy and ethics and “thew,” this read is substantial in its history.

Wodening uses historical linguistics to explore the concepts of morality within these ancient Nordic cultures. It is extremely detailed and, therefore, not something you would want to read as a form of escapism.

A wildcard, this book is not for the faint-hearted, you’ll come out on the other side with newfound knowledge on old Germanic culture and their morals.

4. The Saga of Icelanders – Jane Smiley

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Emphasis is put on the use of saga in the title.

This story is rich with the history of Nordic women and men who first settled Iceland and their descendants’ journey into Greenland and, ultimately, the coast of North America before turning back around.

This book is compiled of ten Sagas and seven shorter tales that recount Leif Eiriksson’s pioneering voyage. This novel is the perfect example of literary excellence that still holds its own when it comes to enthralling storytelling

Best compared to the Game of Thrones novels, this book is for someone wanting to delve deep into the ancient history of these Nordic people to get a better understanding of where they came from.

5. The Gospel of Loki – Joanne M. Harris

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New York Times bestselling author Joanne M.Harris has written a fantastic first-person narrative retold from the God of Trickery himself, Loki.

The story delves into the rise and fall of the Norse Gods and Loki’s exploits leading to the fall of Asgard itself.

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

If you enjoy the works of Neil Gaiman, then this fantasy novel shall surely tickle your fancy. We’ve seen Tom Hiddleston depict Loki in all his fantastical charismatic glory, and this book does not differ. With originality and wit, Harris writes a revenge story showcasing that Loki is not the only being whose morality is up for questioning.

One of the world’s greatest most enigmatic villains as well as heroes, this is a must-read for any fan of Loki.

6. The Prose Edda – Snorri Sturluson, translated by Jesse L. Byock

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This book is one of the originals in Norse mythology storytelling. A must-read if you want to start from the beginning.

Rich with fantastical characters such as giants, dwarves, elves, and Gods, it retells the story of the world’s creation to its violent demise with Ragnarok.

A primary source of all the epic myths of the Vikings, this book was written in Iceland in the early 13th century after the close of the Viking Age. This new translation by Jesse Byock does not stray from the Old Icelandic original text and still manages to keep the robustness and complexity of its predecessor.

7. The Gods and Myths of Northern Europe – H.R Ellis Davidson

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First published in 1964, this book is a fantastic exploration of Norse myths and their origins.

A hearty novel about the pre-Christian beliefs of the Scandinavian and Germanic peoples, it is an excellent read for those wanting something rich with history to sink their teeth into.

Davidson is a scholar who spent a fair chunk of time specializing in Norse and Germanic mythology. It is peppered with all the Gods we are familiar with, as well as the more puzzling figures such as Heimdall and Balder.

All the deities worshipped in the Viking Age are in this book, and Davidson has ventured into relating their cults to everyday life, in order to see why these ancient beliefs gave way in time to the Christian faith.

8. The Sea of Trolls – Nancy Farmer

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If you are looking for a novel about Norse Mythology for a young adult or maybe you are after a more buoyant, adventure feel, then this book is for you.

Following eleven-year-old Jack and his sister, after they are snatched by Vikings, it takes you on a fantastical journey full of trolls, dragons and other monsters you may be familiar with from Norse Mythology.

Reminiscent of Lord of The Rings, this epic novel is the perfect blend of fantasy and lore, a great read for any avid reader of Norse Mythology.

The beginning of a three-part series, this trilogy takes its readers on an epic journey and will have you reading it all it one go.

9. The Viking Spirit: An Introduction to Norse Mythology and Religion – Daniel McCoy

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If you are after a more philosophical read on how these Nordic myths affect the human condition than this is a great choice for you.

It is another hearty introduction to Norse mythology, written to scholarly standards that are simple to understand whilst also keeping an entertaining style.

It includes gripping retellings of 34 epic Norse myths while delving into their religion, moral code, the role of magic, and much more — a definite way to learn the rich history of Nordic lore while still being immersed in the story.

10. Rudiments of Runelore – Stephen Pollington

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Runes and their lore and history are an important part of Norse Mythology. This book is rich with academic research on the runes while still being easy to read.  This is a great addition to your reading list if you are on the journey of learning everything you can about Nordic lore.

A Bonus Read

Thor Volume 1  – J Michael Straczynski

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If you consider yourself a diehard fan of Nordic lore as well as a dabbler in comics, then this graphic novel is a must-read. If you are big into Chris Hemsworth depiction of the God of Thunder, then this is a super fun read. Less historical and more punchy, this is a graphic novel for kids and adults alike.

A Bonus Listen

Myths and Legends

This enchanting podcast retells classic stories you know and love, including Nordic lore. A great way to learn more about these fantastical realms, we highly recommend episode 240 and 241.

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

If you managed to scroll to the end of this, we hope you’ve jotted down some books rich with Norse Mythology to escape into.

There’s a whole world of ancient lore and myths peppered into these top ten novels, delve deep as your Asgardian adventure awaits!

While most readers are acquainted with mythology at an early age, its appeal remains timeless. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that there’s a bewildering assortment of mythology books that have littered the market. After all, the themes discussed in these ancient stories mirror the core concerns and values of humanity like survival, hate, hubris, love, power, and much more. 

As a result, mythology remains a renowned inspiration to a myriad of authors across the globe. Some of the top renditions of these myths have turned into bestsellers, ranging from paranormal to literary. 

Without further ado, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best myth books of all time to help you invoke your inner deity.

1. The Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus

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Being the only work of its kind that has survived classical antiquity, The Library of Greek Mythology is a unique guide to origins of the universe, to the Trojan War. It has been a crucial reference point for classists and authors to date, since its completion back in the 1^st and 2^nd century. 

The Library of Greek Mythology delivers a complete history of Greek myths, telling stories of the prominent families of heroic mythology. It’s also packed with an array of adventures of the main heroines and heroes, such as Helen of Troy, Perseus, and Jason.

As reference work, the book is an indication of how the Greeks perceived their mythical traditions, and a major source for Greek myth, which makes it invaluable. It, therefore, enchants anyone that has an interest in classical mythology.

2. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton 

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The book brings life to modern readers of Norse, Roman, and Greek myths, compared to other books in the market. These myths are the cornerstone of Western culture because the stories of the ancient deities have sparked human creativity from antiquity to date. 

In this book, Edith Hamilton delves into the drama encompassing the wanders of Odysseus and the Trojan War. It’s filled with the dazzling takes of Cupid and Psyche, Jason, the legendary King Midas, and the Golden Fleece.

Readers get to discover the roots of the names of the constellations. They also learn about the reference points for a barrage of works for culture inquiry, literature, and art.

3. The Odyssey by Homer and Translated By Emily Wilson 

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If you’re on the quest for an authoritative and fresh translation that captures the drama and beauty of an ancient poem, then your search ends here. The Odyssey is a poem that revolves around violence, the repercussions of war, hospitality, family, marriage, travelers, and the desire for home. Its characters are memorable, more so, a ‘complicated’ hero who has an array of tricks, moods, and disguises, before evolving into a well-rounded human being. 

The book’s informative yet captivating introduction delves into the Bronze Age milieu which generated the poem’s key themes, controversies about its roots, and the exceptional scope of its influence. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that this version of The Odyssey by The Homer that’s translated by Emily Wilson is held dearly by modern-day readers and scholars alike.

4. Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton 

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Written in a less literary style, Complete World of Greek Mythology focuses on the geographical and historical contexts within which the myths were told. For instance, readers will learn about the broader society and religion that Greek mythology was a part of. They’ll also become well-versed in the roles that certain aspects of the Greeks’ landscape impacted their ancient myths and how ensuing centuries have re-imagined and used Greek mythology. 

Nonetheless, possibly the greatest draw of the book for most readers is the 330 illustrations it comes with, 139 of which are in color. These pictures adorn nearly every page of the book and range from Greek landscapes and classic paintings of scenes from Greek mythology to artifacts from ancient Greece.

5. Theogony and Works and Days by Hesiod and Translated By M.L. West

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Written by Hesiod, Theogony and Works is a must-read for every Greek mythology enthusiast. It’s a prose work that dates back to the end of the 8^th century and delivers an excellent structured account of the roots of the 1^st deities. 

Theogony, that means Genesis of Gods, is one of the key sources that readers have on ancient Greek creation myths. And, its concise and well-organized structure has made it a popular go-to for modern retellings. West’s translation is unarguably one of the best in the market because it’s easy to grasp while maintaining nuance and poetic abundance.

6. Greek Religion by Walter Burkert

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Does learning more about the religion associated with Greek mythology tickle your fancy? Then Greek Religion by Walter Burkert is your best bet.

While there is an array of books that contain the fundamentals of the Greek deities and Greek religion, this book digs deeper. It delivers an exhaustive of the Greeks’ deities, implicit and explicit theologies, rituals, perspectives on the afterlife and death, heroism, and sanctuaries. 

The book’s last chapters discuss the later developments in the Greek religion, for instance, the ‘mystery’ cults. Throughout Greek Religion, readers get to enjoy the ideal synthesis of conceptual interpretation and factual detail.

7. Celtic Myths and Legends by Peter Ellis 

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It’s the perfect choice for readers that are on the quest for a captivating introduction to Celtic mythology that centers on the actual stories.  And, the author delivers this aspect exceptionally well.

Peter’s retellings of the Celtic myths make for an amazing read. Therefore, readers can expect a delightfully told collection of strange creatures, stirring sagas of the deities, heroes, and rulers like King Arthur. 

The well-liked legends and myths from the 6 Celtic cultures of Western Europe (Breton, Welsh, Scots, Cornish, Irish, and Manx) are included.

8. The Winter Sister by Megan Collins 

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Greek myths state that Demeter, who is the Goddess of harvest, has a daughter called Persephone. As the story goes, Pluto abducts Persephone to be his bride, which leaves Demeter distraught. The goddesses’ mourning triggers winter for the first time. 

While there are different interpretations of the Persephone myth, Megan Collins reinvents it in modern-day, snow-laden England. What’s even better about the Winter Sister is that it’s a retelling through Persephone’s grief-stricken sister who reveals how loss threads through the survivors’ lives and reweaves their destinies.

9. The Viking Spirit by Daniel McCoy 

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It’s an ideal option for readers that are on the quest for a timeless grandeur of religion and Norse mythology for the 21^st century. Daniel writes the book from a scholarly standpoint but in a concise and captivating style that makes it a fun read. 

The Viking Spirit contains gripping retellings of at least 34 epic Norse myths, which is more than other books of the same genre. Concurrently, the book delivers an in-depth overview of the enchanting Viking religion that was part of Norse mythology. You’ll gain insight into the Vikings’ deities, their perception of fate, moral code, death, and the afterlife, the universe’s structure, the role of magic and religious practices.

10. The Poetic Edda by Jackson Crawford 

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It’s a work of overwhelming beauty and vision. Therefore, it has few rivals in the literature world. The Poetic Edda is an assortment of heroic and mythical poems that were crafted by anonymous poets in Scandinavia during and after the Viking era.

Together, these poems are a composition of the most crucial aspects of Norse mythology and religion. Furthermore, no published English version comes close to bringing out the full extent of the nuance and splendor of the Old Norse myths. 

11. The Saga of the Volsungs by Jackson Crawford 

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The book is an epic retelling of the Volsungs’ larger-than-life deeds and the deities that had a hand in their fortunes, more so, Sigurd, the hero who killed a dragon. The tales of the lost and found treasures, human beings turning to animals and vice versa, ancient European values, myths, and Gods while gaining invaluable knowledge is what the book delivers.

12. The Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt by Erik Hornung 

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The book targets readers that are familiar with the seemingly amazing and bizarre deities that ancient Egyptians worshipped. But, they want to gain insight into the ancient Egyptians’ perception of divinity or the study of their religion from a solely theological standpoint. 

In the Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt, Erik explores the terms used by the ancient Egyptians as far as divinity is concerned. They termed divinity as the practice of uniting at least two deities to become one. The book also talks about the deities as enemies of war and chaos, upholders of the cosmos, monotheism, polytheism, the relationship between humanity and the Gods, and much more.

Read: Zeus: God of Thunder

The Bottom Line 

Woven into some of the best books, myths of deities, creatures from another realm, kings, queens, warring heroines, and heroes have enchanted mankind for thousands of years. These stories tie everything together to boot. Moreover, the pillars of our civilization like Democracy and more were built by these prominent people.

Facts are everybody’s truth. Fiction is no one’s truth. Myths are someone’s truth. They have fed the souls and imaginations of human beings for thousands of years. While the vast majority of myths are nothing more than stories that people have handed down through the ages, some are rooted in past factual events.

They’re religious, cultural, and a nation’s truths rolled into one to unite a community by offering them a common worldview to function within. So, let’s explore some of the best myth stories that you should know about in 2020. Read on!

1. Prometheus and the Stolen Fire 

As one of the first Titans that Zeus threw out, Prometheus was miraculously a coterie of the Olympians who escaped captivity in Tartarus. Nonetheless, he continued bumping heads with Zeus to the point that when Zeus took away fire from mankind, Prometheus stole it back and restored it to them. 

As a punishment, the deities tied banished Prometheus to the Caucasus Mountains, where he was forever tied to a rock while a hawk devoured his liver. As a result of his mortality, his liver perpetually regenerated. In the end, Hercules took pity on Prometheus and liberated him from his daily torment.

2. Echo and Narcissus 

Narcissus was renowned for his excellence. One day in the woods, Echo, the mountain fairy spotted him and gazed at him in awe. With an unshakable gut feeling of secretly being watched, Narcissus repeatedly yelled out, “Who’s there?” 

In the end, Echo revealed herself and attempted to capture Narcissus, but he sent her away which left her distraught. Upon hearing of this, the Goddess of retribution, Nemesis, led Narcissus to a pool of water in the forest, where he had no choice but to glare at his reflection. He was so besotted with his good looks that he couldn’t leave the forest. This Greek story serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of vanity.

3. Sisyphus

As the ruler of Ephyra, Sisyphus was famous for his deceitfulness coupled with self-aggrandizing craftiness. He opposed the deities countless times and used his cunningness and dishonesty to deceive them until they were fed up with his behavior, particularly Zeus. He was so aggravated by Sisyphus that he condemned him to roll up a large rock up a steep slope. 

Once the rock reached the peak of the hill, it would roll down to the bottom, causing Sisyphus to repeat the process endlessly. The tedious task came as a hard lesson to teach Sisyphus that his hubris could never outsmart the deities.

4. Orpheus 

As an amazing musician, Orpheus had the uncanny ability to inspire trees to curl upon hearing his music. On his wedding day, his wife, Eurydice, was attacked by a snake that killed her. He was so devastated that he resulted in playing melancholic music and asked the deities to relieve him of his grief. 

So, Hermes urged Orpheus to venture into the underworld and plead with Persephone and Hades to return Eurydice to the land of the living. Through his music, he enchanted them enough until they agreed to his request, but under one condition. He was forbidden from getting a glimpse of her until she was back in the land of the living. 

In an unfortunate twist of events, he failed to fulfill his end of the bargain. As a result, Eurydice faded back into the underworld.

5. Icarus

Daedalus was imprisoned with Icarus, his son, in the tower of the great labyrinth he built on Crete. His captivity by King Minos was to avoid unearthing the secret of the Minotaur that was hidden in the labyrinth. Daedalus crafted a plan to escape captivity. So, he gathered quills and used wax to glue the plumes together to make two pairs of wings, one for Icarus and the other for himself. 

When it was time to set the plan in motion, he warned Icarus not to get too close to the sun to avoid the wax from melting and disintegrating the wings. However, he did not heed his advice as he was dumbfounded by the miracle of flight. So, he flew near the sun, which caused the wax to melt. He then plunged straight into the ocean. This myth story serves as a parable against the dangers of conceit.

6. Cassandra and Apollo 

As one of Rome and Greece’s most prominent deities, Apollo fell madly in love with Cassandra. She was the most beautiful daughter of Priam, the legendary king of Troy, during the Trojan War. As a declaration of his love for her, Apollo promised Cassandra the power of prophecy, provided that she agreed to become his wife. 

However, things took a turn for the worse when she went back on her word and refused to get married to Apollo after receiving the promised gift of prophecy. He was so furious with her that he burst into flames then cursed her such that no one would believe her prophecies regardless of what she did. 

Consequentially, people termed Cassandra as a madwoman and a liar. She became a prisoner of her father in Citadel. Regardless of her endless warnings to the Trojans about the Greeks, no one believed her, which ultimately led to the fall of Troy.

7. Lucretia 

As Rome’s legendary heroine, Lucretia committed suicide which was perceived to change the Roman government to a republic, from a monarchy. The son of an Etruscan king raped her, which fueled an instant rebellion against the Roman monarchy. 

Moreover, the incident cooked up a storm of disappointment with the rule of King Lucius, the seventh and last ruler of Rome. As a result, the prominent families birthed a republic against the intervention of Etruscan and Latin along with the 1^st consul of the Roman Republic who was Lucretia’s spouse. 

Consequentially, rape became an important theme in European art and literature. Historians take this story as a factual occurrence that forever imprinted the ancient world.

8. Cloelia 

Belonging to the earliest Roman history, Cloelia takes the crown of the bravest women that ever lived. After the war between Rome and Clusium, a peace treaty was signed in 508 BC. However, King Posena took some Romans hostage, one of which was Cloelia. 

However, she spearheaded the escape from the hostage camp with a group of Roman virgins. They embarked on a journey across the River Tiber. Upon discovering their escape, the king begged Cloelia to return for which she put an ultimatum in place. When she returned, Posena was dumbfounded by her bravery that he granted her wish of freeing half of the hostages. 

The hostages she chose to take with her were the young Roman men to continue the war between Clusium and Rome. Her courage and wit were so priceless to the Romans that they built an equestrian statue in her honor.

Read: Why is Greek Mythology Important?

9. The River Styx and Pluto 

As a symbol of coldness, the planet Pluto was named after the Roman deity of death. According to the myth, people who pass away travel to the underworld. The journey begins with crossing the River of the Dead, known as Styx. The dead are then buried with a coin to pay the ferrymen for the ride across the river. However, the coin has to be placed in the mouth of the dead for their souls to be ferried across the river. 

The planet Pluto derives its title from Charon, the boatman. The water of the Styx was regarded as a bad omen because even the deities couldn’t avoid its ruthless repercussions. Those who came into contact with this water automatically lost their voice for 9 years.

10. Janus 

With two faces, Janus, the Roman deity of beginnings, symbolized the future and the past. It’s for this reason that January being the start of every year, derives its name from Janus.

Furthermore, it’s Janus that’s responsible for the changes and movements that occur in time. He played a crucial role in the ancient Roman myth that entails Romulus kidnapping a Sabine woman. As the story goes, Janus swooped in to save the day by flooding the path to the woman with a volcanic hot spring that engulfed her kidnappers.

11. Jason

The legend of Jason and his team of Argonauts on their journey to acquire the Golden Fleece has enchanted the world for centuries. It’s a story that depicts adventure, courage, and risk rolled into one. Jason was the king of Lolcos and the son of Aeson. He embarked on an adventure to Colchis to bring back the Golden Fleece to prove his worth as a ruler. However, his journey wasn’t a piece of cake. It was packed with an abundance of delays and hardships.

12. Oedipus 

As the son of Jocasta, it was predicted that Oedipus would kill his father, King Laius, who was the ruler of Thebes. When the king caught wind of this, he tied his son’s legs together and ordered a servant to take him to the peak of a mountain and leave him for dead. However, in an act of compassion, the servant disobeyed the king and gave Oedipus (who was an infant) to King Polybus.

Read: Big List of Mythology Quotes

Closing Remarks 

Granted, these myths and stories seem far-fetched in today’s metropolitan, fast-paced era. Nonetheless, the ancient Romans and Greeks were unmatched in their ability to craft remarkable tales that continue to stand the test of time.

There’s a whole hidden world in the myths and stories from the ancient era. It’s an all too familiar but different world that encompasses Gods, Goddesses, mythical creatures, and people. One of the cultures that stand out from the pack is that of Ancient Egypt. 

The mythology of Ancient Egypt is not only intriguing but also diverse that there’s a profound appreciation for it, to date. The ancient Egyptians had thousands of Gods that they could count on for help with their life. Keeping that in mind, we’ll explore some of the best Egyptian myths, including the popular tales about the unique Gods and Goddesses. Dive in!

1. The Story of Re 

Also known as the Myth of Creation, the Story of Re revolves around an egg that named all the living beings, including mankind. Once all the living creatures were named, it turned into a man that served as the 1^st Pharaoh of Egypt for years on end. The Egyptians then began making fun of him that he was getting too old to be their Pharaoh. However, things quickly cooled down once the Isis intervened.

2. The Isis and Osiris 

As the son of Re, Osiris married Isis, after which he became Egypt’s sole ruler. While he was well-liked, his brother Set wasn’t fond of him. He thereby tricked Osiris and killed him which left his beloved wife distraught.

Nonetheless, she used magic to put his body back together, embalmed him and laid him to rest. From then on, embalming the dead became an Egyptian tradition for years after. The logic behind this was for their souls to come back to the earth when Horus who was the son of Osiris, avenged his father.

3. The Battle of Set and Horus 

Upon the embalming of Osiris, his son Horus was magically conceived. After the death of Osiris, his brother Set took over as the ruler of Egypt. However, Horus challenged him to the throne. Therefore, a battle ensued between Horus and Set.

It entailed appealing to a myriad of deities, contests, shape-shifting, and even lascivious frenzies between the two. Nonetheless, there was no conflict resolution between the two men. The story thereby sets the tone for the duality that’s pre-eminent in Egyptian myths.

4. The Underworld and Anubis 

Anubis was the other son of Osiris from his sister Nephthys. She was a protective Goddess that was a representation of the death experience, just like her brother Osiris marked the birth experience. In some ancient Egyptian temple myths, she was referred to as the ‘Excellent Goddess’ or ‘Useful Goddess.’ 

Anubis served as a guardian for the underworld and was the head of a jackal. So, after someone passed on, he would take their soul to the afterlife and witness a ceremony known as the Weighing of the Heart.

It entailed the heart being weighed on the Scale of Truth against the feather of the Goddess of Truth. If the heart weighed less than the feather, then the soul was allowed in the underworld. However, if it was heavier, then it would be devoured by a demon, and the person would ‘die again.’

5. Ra 

As the God of the Sun, Ra was associated with fire. The Egyptians believed that Ra sailed on a boat, daily.

Every morning, before he could rise from the east, Ra would go head-to-head with Apep, the opponent of truth and light who was depicted as an enormous serpent.  They believed that on the days when eclipses occurred, and there was darkness, Ra lost the battle and his boat was swallowed by Apep.

6. Cats and Bastet 

Bastet was the Egyptian Goddess of domesticity, childbirth, the home, women’s secrets, fertility, and cats. She was the protector of homes from disease and evil spirits associated with children and women.

It’s for this reason that she’s depicted as a woman with a cat’s head, which is the logic behind Egyptians worshipping cats. They were put on a pedestal because of their ability to catch mice and rice that threatened the food. 

While domestic cats were regarded as docile, they had a ferocious side to them. It’s for this reason that Bastet was believed to be kind and a nurturer but ferocious at times.

7. Hatshepsut 

Thoth prophesized her to be Egypt’s 1^st female Pharaoh. The prophecy stems from the fact that Ra wished for a female Pharaoh that would bring the world together.

He believed that the only person who was capable of uniting the world was the daughter of Thutmose, the Pharaoh. Nonetheless, the plan didn’t come to fruition because Thutmose passed on before the conception of Hatshepsut. As a result, Ra impregnated Thutmose’s maiden, Ahmes, via his divine breath.

8. The Prince and the Sphinx 

As a favorite, nearly everyone plotted against Hatshepsut’s great-grandson. So, amped up to prove himself, he escaped the court and embarked on a journey across the desert until he encountered the sphinx. It was designed solely for Khafra, the Pharaoh, who turned out to be just like his father in every way. 

According to his predictions, Thutmose would be an excellent Pharaoh. However, he first needed to free him from the desert. Thutmose promised to do so once he became the Pharaoh. True to that, he became one of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs.

9. The Book of Thoth 

It’s believed to be a book that’s packed with the profound knowledge and wisdom that the Gods of Egypt had. The Book of Thoth is tucked away on the floor of the Nile River in a locked set of boxes and is safeguarded by serpents.

Over the years, a multitude of Pharaohs has attempted to get their hands on it. However, their efforts have proved futile because the knowledge that the book holds is not meant to be possessed by humans.

10. Khonsu 

The God of the Moon, Khonsu, symbolizes the passage of time with one of the ancient Egyptian deities named Thoth. Khonsu means traveler, concerning the nightly traverses of the moon across the sky. 

The Egyptians believed that the appearance of a crescent moon meant that women gave birth. Therefore, Khonsu was the marker of childbirth. He was depicted as a hawk-headed man who wore a lunar disk.

11. The Girl Who Wore Red Slippers 

As the world’s 1^st ever Cinderella story, a Greek girl named Rhodopis was the protagonist that was sold into slavery in Egypt.  She’s bought by a man who shows her kindness by giving her a beautiful house to live in and lavishing her with gifts.

One day, in an interesting turn of events, an eagle flies off with one of her red slippers and brings it to Amasis, the Pharaoh. As the story goes, she and the Pharaoh lived happily ever after and even died on the same day.

12. Bes 

Unlike the other Egyptian Gods, Bes is depicted from head-to-toe as a bandy-legged, grotesque dwarf with his tongue constantly sticking out. He was the symbol of entertainment and fun times but also regarded as the God of childbirth. Bes also protected the Egyptians from savage animals and the demons of the night.

13. Hathor 

As the patron goddess of love, music, women, and beauty, Hathor was Ra’s daughter. She’s depicted in 3 forms; a woman with a cow’s ears, a cow, and a woman donned in the headdress of a cow’s horns with a solar disc that sits between.

Being Horus’ consort, her name means ‘House of Horus.’ Out of the barrage of temples she had, the most famous is located in Dendara. 

Nonetheless, there was a grim side to Hathor. There were beliefs that she was sent by Ra to punish human beings for their wickedness. She caused such adverse havoc on the human race that Ra was floored and determined to bring her back to him.

So, he tricked her by luring her with large amounts of beer mixed with mandrake and the blood of the slain. Killing mankind was a tedious task that made Hathor eager to quench her thirst. She then overindulged in the beer until she became too intoxicated to proceed with her slaughter.

14. Hapi 

He was the inundation of the River Nile rather than the God of it. Every year, he caused the flooding of this river, which resulted in rich silk being deposited by the river’s banks. In turn, this paved the way for the Egyptians to grow crops that flourished. 

Hapi was depicted as a pot-bellied man that had breasts and donned a headdress designed from aquatic plants. His cult center was located in Aswan, and he was believed to dwell in the caves of the 1^st cataract.

15. Tefnut

As the wife of Shu, the Egyptian God of air and the mother of Nut and Geb, who later became the Earth, Tefnut was the 1^st Goddess that Atum created. Tefnut was the deity of dew, rain, and moisture and was depicted as a lioness or a woman with the head of a lioness.

Read: Zeus the Greek God

Closing Remarks 

The ancient world was packed with mystery. Much of what the people experienced in this world was scary, with lots of uncertainty. The ancient Egyptian Goddesses and Gods were markers of the ‘supernatural’ and ‘natural’ surroundings and helped them fathom its various aspects.

Ancient legends and myths have been passed down from one millennium to the next. These stories are captivating with their compelling mix of sinister evil, epic adventure, and fascinating mystery. In recent years, a myriad of books that tells unprecedented stories of mythological characters has become bestsellers that are adored by fans and critics alike. 

Let’s explore the best books on myths and legends that provide new insights into the stories we thought we knew like the back of our hands. Read on!

1. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

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If you’re a nerd for mythology and haven’t read American Gods, then it’s time to change that. While Neil’s writing perfectly weaves together modern culture and ancient myths, this book is as upfront about it as it gets.

Shadow Moon, who plays the hero, embarks on a journey across America, tangling with Gods and Goddesses from an array of ancient religions. He finds himself entangled into a divine, strange war that pits old deities against new ones.

2. The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

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If you’re a dork for Greek mythology, you’re probably well-versed in a broad range of myths and legends like Ariadne and Arachne. While you think you know it all, Robert Graves gives a conclusive overview of Greek Mythology in his book.

It retells Greek mythology for a modern audience with a barrage of illustrations and interpretations. It arms you with the much-needed literary ammunition to explain how the legendary movie 300, got its facts wrong.

3. The King Must Die by Mary Renault 

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As the reigning queen of historically plausible, homoerotic, and captivating retellings of Greek mythology, Mary Renault gives the real story of Theseus in The King Must Die. She delves into the most realistic version of how Theseus slew the Minotaur. As expected, the truth behind the bull-headed beast of Crete differs from the version you may have heard.

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

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Worshipped for more than three-fifths of documented history, the Gods and Goddesses of Egypt are among the most captivating of human civilization. The need to pacify the multitude of deities ranging from the malevolent to the benevolent, worship and honor dominated the lives of the commoners and pharaohs.

The complexity and richness of their mythology are depicted in a myriad of tributes throughout Egypt, ranging from the lush tomb paintings and the humble household shrines to the imposing temple reliefs. 

The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt by Richard Wilkinson, scrutinizes the eventual decline, worship, and evolution of a barrage of deities like Bes and Amun. These deities made Egypt one of the most theocratic societies of the ancient era and turned Egyptians into the most religious people across the globe.

5. The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

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Most of us know the story that revolves around Odyssey, who bummed around until he was intentionally 10 years late for dinner. However, Margaret Atwood sprinkles a twist to this common story in The Penelopiad.

Read: Best Mythology Quotes

It offers a funny, insightful, and shrewd retelling of the myth of Odysseus but from the view of his wife, Penelope. The author describes her remarkable vision, stating the book explores Penelope and the 12 hanged maids. It answers two essential questions: What was Penelope up to? What led to the 12 maids being hanged?

6. Once and Future King by T.H. White

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Compared to other ancient cultures, British mythology doesn’t have to encompass animal-headed people aimlessly running back and forth. The Once and Future King by T.H. White, talks about Lancelot, King Arthur, and Merlin, in a fun and touching way. It turns the king into a legend that rivals any modern fantasies.

7. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

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If you gravitate towards mythology with a modern YA vibe, then The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is right up your alley. It talks about a young demigod who grapples with growing up, being Poseidon’s son. The book is a witty update of ruthless beasts along with ancient Gods and Goddesses that duke it out in the real world.

8.  Buddha Vol. 1 by Osamu Tezuka

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If ancient Buddhist mythology tickles your fancy, then the Buddha Vol. 1 by Osamu Tezuka is worth your time and money. Being a wildly visual and inventive storyteller, Osamu Tezuka tells a story of a young prince, Siddhartha, that’s nothing short of exceptional. The book that’s packed with philosophy and slapstick talks about the prince who runs away from home and embarks on an adventure across India, in a bid for enlightenment.

9.  Boxers & Saints Boxed Set by Gene Yang

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In two books, Boxers & Saints narrates two historical fiction stories with mythology threaded through. The 1^st volume is about a Chinese peasant boy called Little Bao whose village is plundered and abused by Westerners that are purporting to be missionaries. In a quest to defend his homeland, the boy is assisted by Chinese Gods in a violent uprising against the Westerners. Against all odds, the rebellion is successful. 

In the 2^nd volume, Gene lays out the opposite side of the conflict. It entails a little girl called Vibiana, whose village has been taken over by Christian missionaries. She calls on Joan of Arc’s spirit to guide and protect her Christian faith. She’s faced with a tough choice of whether to wholly commit to Christianity or abandon her Christian friends in the village. 

The two volumes are complex and revolve around drawing on past legends to shape their future.

10. The Book of Greek Myths by D’Aulaire

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Education is incomplete without a big slice of Greek mythology. So, what better way to meet this literary quota than with The Book of Greek Myths by D’Aulaire? All the deities of ancient Greece are depicted in this book.

Readers will be blown away by the almighty Zeus, the God of the universe, intimidated by the Hera, the powerful queen of Olympus, stirred by the graceful Athena, the Goddess of wisdom; and chilled by the moody ruler of the sea, Poseion. These deities frolic, flounce and get even. Ranging from heroic acts to petty squabbles, their actions encompass a mix of mortal and godly personalities.

11. Of-Poseidon by Anna Banks 

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It’s a refreshing story that’s packed with feisty humor, undeniable romance, and vibrant characters. Of Poseidon revolves around a prince called Galen, who’s on the quest for a girl that supposedly has the gift of communicating with fish.

During his quest, he runs into Emma who’s on a getaway at the beach. While their connection is powerful and instant, Galen has some doubts if she’s the one he’s been searching for. However, a deadly encounter with a shark proves him wrong because she has the power to save his kingdom. So, he’s in dire need of her help, despite the risk.

12. Circe by Madeline Miller 

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There was a powerful enchantress called Circe. The book discusses the parts she plays in the story of Odysseus in his challenging and difficult journey back home to Ithaca after the gruesome Trojan War.

So, she no longer takes a back seat while Odysseus runs the show. The book takes readers through Circe’s beginnings as an outcast teenager who struggled with her powers and her transformation into an independent, strong woman who fought tooth and nail to protect herself and everything dear to her heart.

13. The Children of Jocasta by Natalie Haynes

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In this book, the author re-imagines an ancient myth of Antigone and Oedipus. When Oedipus is born, he’s destined for a tragic fate that entails unknowingly marrying his mother, Jocasta, after killing his father.

Upon discovering the truth, their daughter, Antigone, decides to commit suicide. The book is split between the voice of Jocasta and Ismene, her other daughter, which breathes new life into the renowned myth.

14. Oreo by Fran Ross 

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The book is a playful retelling of Minotaur and Theseus the legend, with a feminine twist. Theseus makes his way through the complex maze to conquer the Minotaur, thereby fulfilling his destiny.

Oreo is in a bid to find her father, who left a mysterious note then disappeared when she was just a baby. As she looks for her father in the maze of Manhattan, her journey becomes filled with self-discovery and she breaks free of myths that have always limited her.

15. The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

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The book retells the siege of Troy from one woman’s perspective, Briseis, the Trojan Queen, who is held captive by the Greek army. She’s coerced to become Achilles’ bed slave. In this story, Pat focuses on women’s experiences through war, depicting the gravity of their loss, bravery, and strength of the connection they share.

The Bottom Line 

Books on legends and myths, give readers foundational literary context for future stories that they’ll be engrossed in. What’s even better is when maximum-packed humor and adventure is injected into these books, to spice things up. The books mentioned above are only a fraction of the top recommendations that’ll get you hooked, right off the bat.

It’s no secret that the Greek culture is one that has stood the test of time. The magical world of the ancient Greek Gods revolved around wars, bickering, fights, fear, fun, love, and punishment, all rolled into one. As a result, a myriad of myths came about, collectively termed as Greek mythology. 

Greek mythology is the collective name for an intriguing, yet complex set of stories that pave the way for us to pierce through the fabric of reality and peek into the other side. They were based on the fact that Gods, like mortal men, were rewarded for their actions or faced the repercussions of them. While some believe that these stories are fictitious, we think that myths unveil the truth. After all, there’s no smoke without fire. 

Nonetheless, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of Greek mythology tales, given the multitude of narratives, with each having various versions. 

With that being said, let’s delve into some of the best ancient Greek myths for kids and adults. Read on!

1. Charybdis and Scylla

On both ends of a thin sea stretch, sit monsters. On one end, Scylla lies in wait, thrashing around her six snakeheads, ready to pounce on any passing sailor.

On the other end is Charybdis that’s ready to trap anyone in its path with a dangerous whirlpool. While no one has ever encountered these beasts and escaped unscathed, the king, Odysseus and his men must meet them on their way home. 

To evade Charybdis’ trap, the king and his team are tasked with edging around the spiraling sea. Things get even more impressive when they concurrently must avoid Scylla, who’s waiting in the wings to gobble them up.

Unfortunately, she pounces on six men as Odysseus leads the pack out of the deadly passage. He bravely manages to get them out of harm’s way as they embark on their journey home. 

2. Minotaur and Theseus

Minotaur, who is half-man and half-bull, is lurking in an underground labyrinth, eagerly anticipating his next meal; children that are sacrificed to him. And, the stakes are high for the children that are lost in the maze.

However, in an exciting turn of events, Theseus, the brave king, is tired of living in fear and decides to take matters into his own hands. Joined by a group of people, he prepares to fight Minotaur that has invaded his land. 

One day, upon hearing the beast breathing nearby, the king and his men make their move by springing towards it. While dodging the Minotaur’s deadly horns, the king thrusts his sword into it, which kills it in a jiffy.

But, will the crew find their way out? Fortunately, Theseus unwinds a piece of string as he traverses through the labyrinth and leads the children to safety. 

3. Heracles 

There’s a deadly serpent with nine heads, known as the Hydra, lurking in the swamp. Heracles, the son of Zeus, is tasked with killing it to gain immortality. So, he decides to hurl burning spears at the serpent. But, it won’t go down without a fight.

Therefore, while Heracles uses a club to attack the serpent’s heads, others grow in their place, quickly overpowering him. His friend jumps to his defense with a flaming torch and finally destroys the Hydra.

4. Perseus and Medusa 

Medusa, a hideous beast, has frightening tusks and snakes in place of hair. Anyone that glances at it is turned into stone, in a jiffy.

To impress his king, Perseus takes on the challenge to slay Medusa. He dons a helmet that makes him invisible then creeps up on the beast while she’s sleeping.

However, one glimpse at her face and he’d turn into a statue. So, he glares at her harmless reflection in his shiny shield before beheading her in the blink of an eye. Triumphant, Perseus then flies away on his winged sandals.

5. Pegasus and Bellerophon

With a goat’s body, a lion’s head, and a serpent for a tail, Chimera is a frightening beast. Bellerophon has been chosen by the king to destroy this beast.

As he soars above Chimera on a Pegasus, Bellerophon fires arrows at it. He then layers one of his spears with lead, which thrusts into the Chimera and instantly kills it.

6. The Amazons 

A tribe of female warriors known as the Amazons lived in Themiscyra. Displaying remarkable bravery and strength, they defeated countless men in battle. Penthesilia, one of the Amazon queens, is believed to have been part of the Trojan War, a mythical battle between the Spartans and Greeks. 

Read: Why is Greek Mythology Important?

7. King Augeas of Elis

One of Hercules’ 12 laborers was tasked with cleaning the stables of King Augeas of Elis. The king promised to pay him the value of one-tenth of his cattle once he completed the task.

However, in a twist of events, Augeas went back on his word and refused to pay the laborer. Enraged by the king not holding up to his end of the bargain, Hercules declared war on the city of Elis. After winning the war, Hercules organized a festival in the bordering town of Olympia to commemorate his victory and pay homage to Zeus, his almighty father. 

8. The Oracle at Delphi

In an attempt to find the center of the universe, Zeus released two enormous eagles to fly in opposite directions. The center of the universe would then be the exact location at which the two eagles cross paths.

As the story goes, the eagles reunited over central Greece at the town of Delphi. To commemorate this discovery, the Ancient Greeks set up a temple on Mt. Parnassus that sits just outside the city. The temple became one of the most sacred sites in the ancient era. 

9. Patronage of Athens 

Athena and Poseidon were competing to become the patron god of Athens when it was a newly-founded city. The competition entailed presenting a gift to Cecrops, the mythical king of Attica. The king would then judge the best gift between that of Athena and Poseidon that would benefit Athens. 

Poseidon gave the people a spring that unfortunately turned out to be useless saltwater. Athena, on the other hand, gave the city an olive tree that the king deemed as the better gift. She was then declared the patron, and in her honor, the city was named Athens. 

10. Demeter 

With two meanings, namely ‘giver of barley’ and ‘mother earth,’ Demeter was a Greek goddess of not only nature but also cultivation. The implications of her name stem from the belief that she taught humanity the art of cultivating grain.

As a result, she was also regarded as the bread giver. So, without her blessing, nothing improved, and people starved to death. As opposed to dwelling in Olympus, Demeter chose to spend most of her time with her daughter, Persephone, roaming the earth. 

11. Tyche

Commonly known as Tyche, she was the Greek goddess of fortune, fate, and chance. She was the marker of not only the negative aspects of these characteristics but also the positive ones.

Ancient Greeks regarded her as the force behind the good and the bad occurrences in their lives. For instance, if someone became successful in their life without much effort, it was assumed that they were showered with blessings from Tyche.

On the other hand, if someone toiled but didn’t achieve success, then it was presumed that Tyche was responsible. Tyche was the daughter of Tethys and Oceanus and was popularly worshipped in Athens. As a result, Athenians believed she favored their city. 

12. Poseidon 

In a country surrounded by water, Poseidon, the God of the sea, is at the forefront. And, he had two brothers, Hades and Zeus. Being the protector of all waters, it’s no surprise that sailors looked up to him for safe voyages. Therefore, as an act of faith, sacrifices in the form of horses were made before any trip. 

The exciting part is that Poseidon owned a palace that sat on the ocean floor and was solely designed from coral and gems. However, he spent most of his time at Mt. Olympus. While Poseidon was so powerful that his trident could cause an earthquake, he still had his flaws. For instance, his moody nature caused him to have an unstable temperament, which consequently resulted in violence. 

13. Hephaestus

He was not only the God of fire but also a jack of all trades specializing in stone masonry, metalworking, and forged the art of sculpture. As the son of Hera and Zeus, Hephaestus became the husband of Aphrodite to prevent a battle among the gods fighting for her hand in marriage. While he crafted an array of weapons for the gods, Hephaestus owned a place in Olympus where he came up with a barrage of ingenious inventions.  

Closing Remarks 

Modern Greece is rich in mythology. The above myths are just a fraction of the best Ancient stories of war, goddesses, gods, love, failure, and human victory, all deeply rooted in Greece’s culture. And, just like they did thousands of years ago, they continue shaping the country today.