The Classic Myths in English Literature and in Art - Softcover

Gayley, Charles Mills

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1417908041 ISBN 13: 9781417908042

Publisher: Kessinger Publishing, 2005

Synopsis

The Classic Myths in English Literature and in Art by Charles Mills Gayley is a comprehensive guide to the mythical stories that have influenced English literature and art throughout history. The book covers a wide range of myths from various cultures, including Greek, Roman, Norse, and Celtic. It explores how these myths have been adapted and reinterpreted by English writers and artists, from Chaucer and Shakespeare to Milton and Blake. The book is divided into three parts. The first part provides an overview of the major mythological cycles, such as the Trojan War and the adventures of Odysseus. The second part focuses on specific myths and their influence on English literature, including the stories of Orpheus and Eurydice, Cupid and Psyche, and King Arthur. The third part examines the role of myth in English art, including paintings, sculptures, and other visual arts.Throughout the book, Gayley provides detailed analysis and interpretation of the myths and their literary and artistic adaptations. He also explores the cultural and historical context in which these myths were created and the ways in which they have been used to convey moral and philosophical ideas. The book is illustrated with numerous examples of art inspired by these myths, including works by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo.Overall, The Classic Myths in English Literature and in Art is an essential resource for anyone interested in the intersection of mythology, literature, and art. It provides a rich and fascinating exploration of the enduring power of these ancient stories and their influence on Western culture.1893. Based originally on Bulfinch's Age of Fable (1855). Classroom text from Gayley, Professor of the English Language and Literature in the University of California. From the Preface: In the Commentary four things have been attempted: first, an explanation, under each section, of ordinary textual difficulties; second, an unpretentious exposition of the myth or a brief statement of the more evident interpretations advanced by philologists or ethnologists; third, an indication of certain additional poems or verses that illustrate the myth; fourth, special mention of such masterpieces of ancient and modern sculpture and painting as may serve to introduce the student or the general reader to a field of aesthetic profit neglected by the great mass of our people. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Edition details

• Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1417908041
• ISBN 13: 9781417908042
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 676