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The Bibliography

Explore mythology and art with information about the classic stories of heroes and gods...from the myths of ancient Greece and Rome, to the legends of the Celts. Mythography presents resources and reference materials about mythology - including recommended books, and lexicons that explain Greek, Roman, and Celtic terms.

Gardner's Art Through the Ages

This book is the classic reference for the study of art. It features a history of artists and their works, as well as lucid and engaging descriptions of the styles and periods of art history. Highly recommended for both students and scholars.

Aphrodite in Art
Aphrodite in Myth
Art Themes

In the Odyssey, there is a scene in which Odysseus reaches the land of the Phaeacians. While he sleeps, the goddess Athena (who, incidentally, favored the hero Odysseus and acted as his divine protector) visits the young princess of this land, Nausicaa. This moment is beautifully described in the Odyssey:

"...on this night the goddess, grey-eyed Athena,
entered the palace of Alcinous
to make sure of Odysseus' voyage home.
She took her way to a painted bedchamber
where a young girl lay fast asleep - so fine
in mould and feature that she seemed a goddess -
the daughter of Alcinous, Nausicaa.
One either side, as Graces might have slept,
her maids were sleeping. The bright doors were shut,
but like a sudden stir of wind, Athena
moved to the bedside of the girl, and grew
visible as the shipman Dymas' daughter,
a girl the princess' age, and her dear friend."

Athena, in the disguise of a young girl, tells Nausicaa to assist her maids in the washing of clothing the next morning. Nausicaa complies. While she and her companions are at the river, they engage in a game of ball, the noise of which rouses the hero Odysseus from his slumber. All of the other girls are terrified by the sight of the hero - all except the noble Nausicaa. Nausicaa demonstrates her bravery (no doubt bolstered by the goddess Athena) and offers Odysseus food and clothing. Ultimately, the beauty and charm of the princess represent another of the many temptations that Odysseus encounters on his long journey home

Nausicaa in Art
Gallery | for pictures and information about Nausicaa in art, visit the Mythography gallery!

Who's Who in Classical Mythology This book is a great source for information about Greek and Roman mythology! Organized alphabetically, this who's who features information about over 1200 of the most intriguing characters from Classical myth and legend.	Bulfinch's Mythology The stories of Classical myth come to life in Bulfinch's book. This edition also features legends from other cultures.	Mythography Forums Do you have a specific question about Greek, Roman, and Celtic mythology? Then try the Mythography forum!