Challenges to the Power of Zeus in Early Greek Poetry [Hardcover]

In the earliest extant works of Greek literature, Zeus reigns supreme in the Olympian hierarchy. However, scattered and scanty though they may be, there are allusions to threats of rebellion which challenge Zeus' supremacy. This book examines these passages, drawn from Homer, Hesiod and the Homeric Hymns , to offer some new interpretations. While focusing on the theme of cosmic/divine strife, it becomes clear that hints of lost legends underlie these texts. Tracing their hidden logic helps to improve our understanding of early Greek poetry.

In the earliest extant works of Greek literature, Zeus reigns supreme in the Olympian hierarchy. However, scattered and scanty though they may be, there are allusions to threats of rebellion which challenge Zeus' supremacy. This book examines these passages, drawn from Homer, Hesiod and the Homeric Hymns , to offer some new interpretations.

Noriko Yasumurais Professor of Classics at Kanazawa University, Japan.

Introduction
I. The Threat of Thetis
II. The Golden Chain of Hera
III. The Reordering of the Universe
IV. The Birth of Athena
V. Prometheus, God of Forethought
VI. Typhon, Son of Hera
VII. The Bitter Sorrow of Aphrodite
Epilogue
Notes
Abbreviations
Bibliography
Index of Passages
Index of Names
General Index