The Classical Greek Reader

by Kenneth Atchity (Editor)

Scholarly commentary on the nuances of Greek writing fills library shelves, even entire libraries. Yet nothing can take the place of the documents themselves. The Classical Greek Reader marks an exciting departure from the traditional anthology approach to Greek literature and thought. By focusing not only on the big names but also on the less-familiar voices--the women, doctors, storytellers, herbalists, and romance writers--we are offered a glimpse of ancient Greece as we have rarely seen it.

Kenneth J. Atchity provides the reader with firsthand access to literary, artistic, social, political, religious, scientific, and philosophical texts that shaped Greek thinking. From Homeric epics to the histories of Plutarch, and from the poems of Korinna to the romances of Heliodorus, this invaluable reference provides readers with modern translations of the voices that shaped the classical Greek spirit. Each entry contains an introduction identifying the author and providing information that allows readers to consider these ancient texts in a new light.
Here are the wonders of the Greek world presented in a modern, accessible manner, perfect for those looking to refresh their acquaintance with the classics and for those who have yet to explore the exciting intellectual energy of the ancient Greek world.

Genres: Classics, Nonfiction, Reference

470 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 1996

About the author

Kenneth John Atchity is an American producer and author, who has worked variously in the world of letters as a literary manager, editor, speaker, writing coach, brand consultant, and professor of comparative literature.

At home among the many worlds of communications and storytelling, he was labeled a "story merchant" by a visiting ambassador to the United States.

Atchity was born 16 January 1944 in Eunice, Louisiana, son of Fred J. and Myrza (née Aguillard) Atchity; he grew up between Louisiana and Kansas City, Missouri. He and his companies, The Story Merchant, Atchity Entertainment International, Inc., The Writers Lifeline, Inc., and The Louisiana Wave Studio, LLC, in Shreveport, Louisiana produce films and develop books for publication; and books, screenplays, and films for television and cinema, and consult with writers about their career strategies and tactics.

Reviews

[akemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book for those looking to dip their toes into ancient greek literature. provides a wide variety of poetry and essays which give a little something to every reader. each work has an introductory section that provides background information on the authors and the times the pieces were written, which helps one to understand the writings as well as enhance their appreciation for them. oftentimes, the works are not included in full, like Homer and The Illiad, but instead include small sections of each work to pique one's interest.

of all the sections included in the book, I particularly liked Dio Cocceianus’ "The Hunters of Euboea." a great piece that puts into perspective the ridiculousness of property ownership and the taxation of free land.

also really liked Heliodorus’ Aethiopica as a character. a true master who knows how to manipulate and gaslight her way into getting what she wants, even if she is not always successful. a true icon. i love her.

[Vikas Datta · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fount of knowledge on the human condition....

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Used in college and I remember really liking it.