Tales of Troy and Greece

"Tales of Troy and Greece" by Andrew Lang is a collection of ancient Greek myths rewritten for a younger audience, primarily focusing on the Trojan War and its heroes. The stories center on characters like the clever Ulysses, the mighty Achilles, and the beautiful Helen, whose fate sparks a massive conflict. The book explores important ideas like courage, love, and what happens because of war. It starts by introducing Ulysses as a young prince in Ithaca, explaining how he grew up to be brave and smart. He faces exciting challenges even as a boy, like a dangerous encounter with a wild boar that leaves him with a scar that hints at the troubles to come. The book also shows what life was like in ancient Greece, including traditions and descriptions of Helen's beauty, which eventually causes all the fighting in Troy. The beginning of the book lays the groundwork for a series of stories filled with strong characters and historical importance.