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.