Ithaca in Odysseus’ Absence
The Trojan War finally over, the Greeks’ homecoming – particularly that of Odysseus – was plagued by storms and sabotage. After many years, when he did not return, most …
Category: Greek Mythology
The Kings of Ithaca
Odysseus belonged to a dynasty of island kings, all only sons. Most were of doubtful parentage. His (supposed) grandfather, Arcesius, was said to be the son of either Zeus …
The Judgment & Triumph of Paris
Paris had two passions: the mountain nymph Oenone, a skilful healer; and battles between bulls. His prize beast could beat any rivals, until a wild bull thundered into the …
Mycenae Map
Approaching Mycenae, foundations of a Bronze Age bridge lie in the valley (right). Soon shaft graves can be seen cut into the rock (left). Before the main car park, …
Agamemnon, Clytemnestra & Aegisthus
Agamemnon and Clytemnestra had four children: a son, Orestes, and three daughters, Iphigenia (sometimes called Iphianassa), Electra and Chrysothemis. Mycenae flourished, becoming the most powerful city in all Greece. …
Meleager in the Iliad
In the Iliad, to try to turn aside Achilles’ wrath over the loss of his slave girl and persuade him to return to the fighting, a Greek delegation reminds …
Ephyra Map
The Necromanteion sits on a low hill above the agricultural village of Mesopotamos, beside the main highway between Preveza and Igoumenitsa. The Church of St John the Baptist dominates …
The Reluctant Hero
Odysseus was renowned for his intellect – his Homeric epithet is very cunning’ (polymetis). Thanks to his advice, King Tyndareus of Sparta made his daughter Helen’s suitors swear an …