Hesiod, who lived in Boetia in the late eighth century BC, is one of the oldest known, and possibly the oldest of Greek poets. His Theogony contains a systematic genealogy of the gods from the beginning of the world and an account of the struggles of the Titans. In contrast, Works and Days is a compendium of moral and practical advice on husbandry, and throws unique and fascinating light on archaic Greek society. As well as offering the earliest known sources for the myths of Pandora, Prometheus and the Golden Age, Hesiod's poetry provides a valuable account of the ethics and superstitions of the society in which he lived. Unlike Homer, Hesiod writes about himself and his family, and he stands out as the first personality in European literature. This new translation, by a leading expert on the Hesiodic poems combines accuracy with readability. It is accompanied by an introduction and explanatory notes.
Hesiod
Hesiod was an ancient Greek poet who is best known for his works "Theogony" and "Works and Days." He is considered one of the earliest Greek poets and is credited with being a major source of Greek mythology. Hesiod's writing style is characterized by its didactic tone and moralizing messages. His works often explore themes of creation, the nature of gods, and the relationship between gods and mortals. Hesiod's contributions to literature include providing a comprehensive account of Greek mythology and offering practical advice on how to live a virtuous life. His most famous work, "Theogony," is a genealogical account of the origins and genealogy of the Greek gods and goddesses. Hesiod's impact on his literary genre is significant, as his works served as a foundational text for later Greek poets and writers.