Amazing fact-based view into the ancient world

4 stars

On the whole, Mythica was a fascinating dive into what may be the truth behind the myths of The Iliad and The Odyssey as it applies, mainly, to the women mentioned in those epic poems. Though there's a great deal on the men and gods/goddesses, as well. Possible locations, lifestyles, ways of life of these ancient people based on archaeological and scientific finds in and around what is thought to be Troy, the Greek islands and well beyond. The research and discoveries made is quite simply mind-blowing. All the fact-based information in this book paints a vivid picture of this bygone time and its people. Utterly extraordinary that we could know so much and well done knitting it all together in this text.

I marvel at the ancient world and the vast array of stories we have from that time. But I should steer clear of anything hinting at 'feminist' as it gets under my skin. Were women forced into slavery after being conquered? Did they work hard? Were they abused, raped and even murdered? Yes, it was the ancient world and society functioned differently from today. Maybe we should count ourselves lucky that women were mentioned as much as they were given these epic poems were crafted by a man, about fighting men and the quest of one man to return to his wife and son? Maybe the women of that time were content in the societal confines of their community and the well defined rules required to belong? Viewing history through the skewed lens of today and lecturing about fast fashion and trans issues from our lofty perch of the 21st century doesn't serve anyone. It may even create faults in our understanding of the past which so many have worked so hard to acquire. Thoughts for another day, perhaps. Regardless, this is a fascinating read clarifying the mystery of the ancient Greek/Trojan world and so much more. I highly recommend it.