Hellenistic epic poetry and mythology

The Argonautica: The Voyage of Jason and the Argonauts

Name: The Argonautica: The Voyage of Jason and the Argonauts
Author: Apollonius Rhodius

Intermediatecomplete

Hellenistic epic poem recounting the legendary voyage of Jason and fifty heroic Argonauts in quest of the Golden Fleece. Chronicles their journey from Greece through dangerous seas, encounters with mythological creatures and peoples, assistance of goddesses Athena and Hera, and climactic acquisition of the Fleece with help of Medea. Emphasizes adventure, heroic achievement, divine intervention, and consequences of mortals engaging with divine will. Only surviving ancient Greek epic besides Homer's works. Combines mythological adventure with sophisticated psychological characterization.

Also known asJason and the Golden Fleece · Voyage of the Argonauts · The Argonautic Expedition

This edition250

EditionOriginal work composed c. 250 BCE during Hellenistic period in Greek Alexandria. This represents English translation of the ancient Greek epic poem.

Greek MythologyWestern / ClassicalMythological narrativeheroic achievementConflict with godsProphecy and forebodingLove and desireJason and the ArgonautsHellenistic EpicSupernatural obstaclesClassical mythologyHeroic traditionsacrifice and offeringsAlliance and enmityComparative Mythologyritual documentation