In this definitive assessment of the various representations and approaches to Athena, Susan Deacy does what no other has done before and brings all the aspects of this legendary figure into one, outstanding study.
A survey of one of the most enduringly popular of ancient deities, the book introduces Athena’s myth, cult and reception, while directing the reader to detailed discussion as and when it is appropriate.
Students will find it a great help in their studies, and for the general reader with an interest in the ancient world and for those from related disciplines such as literature, art history and religion, it provides a mine of information and insight into this fascinating classical figure.
Why Athena? Introducing Athena Key Themes 1. The Birth of Athena 2. Tracing Athena’s Origins 3. From Origins to Functions: Athena in the Pantheon 4. Heroes, Heroines And The Trojan War 5. Athena in Athens: Patron, Symbol and ‘Mother’ 6. Early Athenian History 7. All About Athena? The Classical Akropolis 8. The Wider Greek World Athena Afterwards 9. From Being to Image: The Rise of Christianity and the Postclassical World. Further Reading. Works Cited
Biography
Susan Deacy
'The amount of information compactly conveyed is exceptional' – Times Higher Education
‘Deacy is to be credited with developing the concept and format for an engaging and informative series. Her book on Athena ably fulfils the aims of this enterprise and is accessible to the general reader because it deals with such a broad range of evidence.’ – Bryn Mawr Classical Review
'With precision and insight, the author discusses the festivals that honored Athena in the Greek world and the survival of Athena in Christianity. Students and scholars alike will be drawn into the discussion.' – CHOICE
"Excellent panorama of the various aspects of Athena’s properties, cults, and reception; a good textbook for students...a very useful introduction to the cult, myths, significance, and later survival of the goddess." -Oxford Bibliographies Online
