Classic Myths to Read Aloud

Written by William F. Russell

Grade:

2-5

ISBN-13:

978-0517588376

Publisher:

Crown (1992)

The myths found in this collection offer a broad and significant perspective on human nature. Whether it is in reading one of the more minor myths, such as Icarus flying too close to the sun or the spinning contest between Athena and Arachne, or it is in reading the great epic stories of the Trojan War, Jason’s search for the Golden Fleece, or the wanderings of Aeneas, the reader and listener will witness both great folly and great virtue. One can expect to see great examples of courage, perseverance, magnanimity, justice, and responsibility. Likewise, one will also see illuminating examples of disrespect, pride, jealousy, dishonesty, rash judgement, and greed. Myths recommended for Second Grade are, “Icarus and Daedalus”, “Pegasus, the Winged Horse”, “The Spinning Contest”, “The Story of Theseus”, “The Riddle of the Sphinx”, “The Story of Helen of Troy”, and “The Return of Ulysses”. Myths recommended for Third Grade are, “Damon and Pythias”, “The Sword of Damocles”, “Cupid and Psyche”, “Jason and the Golden Fleece”, “Perseus and the Gorgon’s Head”, and “The Wanderings of Aeneas”.