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nm1999

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Homer is my favorite Greek philosopher of all time! His influence is still felt today and its even required readings for many high school and university courses. Who is your favorite Greek philosopher?

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My vote for favorite Greek philosopher is Socrates! ??????
 
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Homer is my favorite Greek philosopher of all time! His influence is still felt today and its even required readings for many high school and university courses. Who is your favorite Greek philosopher?

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Homer is my favorite Greek philosopher of all time! His influence is still felt today and its even required readings for many high school and university courses. Who is your favorite Greek philosopher?

I understood what you meant by your question, but I still have a problem with the word "philosophy"since neither the Iliad nor the Odyssey are written in the dialogue style of Plato, or in the prose style of most philosophers who discuss a topic "in the abstract". Poets like Homer and novelists like Camus and cultural essayists like Nietzsche -- just to mention three names, are "thinkers" or observrs of human conditions, and express their wisdom or insights in concrete social contexts [such as a war, a tourist adventure, an imaginary journey, a published/literary drama (like Sophocles' Oedipus Rex) , etc. So, I distinguish Philosophy Proper [done in the abstract] and Adventitious Philosophy [done in the concrete, in described world situations]. // I, too, love Homer, a great philosophical poet!// Historians, like Polybios, can also be philosophical, This is one of his oft-quoted observations: There is no witness so dreadful, no accuser so terrible as the conscious [conscience] that dwells in the heart of every man.
 
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Learning About Cronus of Greek Mythology

I’ve been learning more about Cronus lately and realized that I only knew the most basic parts of his story. I knew he was one of the Titans and the father of Zeus, but there is much more to his role in Greek mythology.

Cronus overthrew his own father, Uranus, and later became ruler during what was sometimes described as a Golden Age. He was also warned that one of his children would eventually overthrow him, which led to the famous story of him swallowing each of them after they were born. Zeus, of course, escaped that fate and eventually defeated him.

I’m curious how others view Cronus. Do you think of him mainly as a villain, or as a more complicated figure shaped by fear and prophecy? Are there any lesser-known stories about Cronus that you think are especially interesting or important to understanding him?

Creation Stories of Greek Mythology

I’ve been spending a lot of time researching the creation stories of Greek mythology, and I find them endlessly fascinating. What draws me in is how there isn’t a single, fixed origin story—everything shifts depending on the source. Between Hesiod’s Theogony, the Orphic traditions, and later philosophical interpretations, the beginning of the cosmos feels fluid rather than settled.

I’d love to hear how others approach these myths. Which version of creation resonates most with you, the emergence from Chaos, the role of Gaia and Uranus, or the more mystical Orphic egg? Are there lesser-known fragments, regional traditions, or scholarly sources you’ve found especially compelling?

I’m always excited to discover new angles, translations, or interpretations, especially ones that explore why the Greeks may have been comfortable holding multiple origin stories at once. Any recommendations, insights, or favorite passages would be greatly appreciated.

Exploring the Story of Persephone and Spring

I’ve recently started learning more about Greek mythology, and I keep coming across the story of Persephone and how it’s connected to the arrival of spring. The idea that her return from the underworld brings life back to the earth is really fascinating to me, especially how it ties into the seasons in such a symbolic way.

I’m curious how others interpret this myth beyond the basic explanation. Do you see it more as a story about nature and seasonal change, or is there a deeper emotional or psychological meaning behind it? I’ve also read a bit about Demeter’s role and how her grief affects the earth, which adds another layer to it.

Would love to hear how others understand or connect with this story!

Unsung Heroes of Greek Mythology?

Greek mythology is full of larger-than-life figures like Heracles, Odysseus, and Achilles, but I’ve always been fascinated by the lesser-known heroes who don’t get as much attention. There are so many incredible stories that fly under the radar: Meleager and the Calydonian Boar, Bellerophon taming Pegasus, or even Diomedes, who faced the gods themselves in battle.

I recently came across the story of Atalanta again, the only woman among the Argonauts, raised by a bear, unbeatable in a footrace, and I can’t believe she isn’t talked about more! These “side characters” often feel more human and relatable than the famous ones.

Which lesser-known hero (or heroine) stands out to you? Do you have a favorite overlooked myth or backstory that deserves more love? I’d love to hear which of these hidden legends captured your imagination and why.

Athena and the Story of Athens

I’m planning a trip to Athens later this year, and I realized I’d love to refresh my memory on the story behind the city, especially how it’s connected to Athena.

I remember that there was some kind of contest between Athena and Poseidon for control of the city, but I’m a little fuzzy on the details. I think it had something to do with gifts they offered, but I’d love a clearer version of the story.

For those who know Greek mythology well, how does the myth actually go, and what’s the significance behind it? Does it still show up in the city today in any meaningful way?

Would love to hear a simple breakdown or any insights before I go!
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