96 pages • 3 hours read
Bernard EvslinHeroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths
Fiction | Short Story Collection | YA | Published in 1966A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Introduction
Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths
- Genre: Fiction; young adult mythology retellings
- Originally Published: 1966
- Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 800L; grades 7-12
- Structure/Length: 4 parts; 26 chapters plus introduction; approx. 240 pages; approx. 6 hours, 32 minutes on audio
- Protagonist and Central Conflict: Evslin’s retellings of popular Greek myths feature stories about Zeus, Hera, and other gods and goddesses; monsters and supernatural beings like Medusa; and heroes such as Prometheus.
- Potential Sensitivity Issues: Violence; death; incestuous relationships; sexual violence
Bernard Evslin, Author
- Bio: 1922-1993; born in New York; attended Rutgers University; pursued an early career in screenwriting and producing as well as playwriting; wrote over 70 books, many for young adults; received the National Education Association Award (1961)
- Other Works: The Greek Gods (1966); The Adventures of Ulysses (1969); Hercules (1984)
CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:
- Moderation and Restraint as Ideals
- The Wisdom of Aligning a Weaker Power With a Stronger Power
- Love as the Most Powerful Force
STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:
- Explore background information on Ancient Greek culture, religion, and mythology to increase their engagement with and understanding of the stories in the collection.
- Read/study paired texts and other brief resources to deepen their understanding of themes related to Moderation and Restraint as Ideals, The Wisdom of Aligning a Weaker Power With a Stronger Power, and Love as the Most Powerful Force.
