The Argonautika

About “The Argonautika”

Jason and the Argonauts' quest for the Golden Fleece is one of the oldest Greek myths, mentioned by Homer as something familiar to all. The story follows a young prince on a dangerous journey, where he overcomes challenges such as clashing rocks and fire-breathing bulls to win the Fleece and the hand of Medeia, the daughter of King Aietes. The myth also reflects early exploration and colonizing efforts, as the Argonauts return home through Italy and Sicily, navigating major European rivers. The poem, attributed to Apollonius Rhodius, combines an ancient myth with a Hellenistic style. Jason is portrayed as an ordinary man who wins women's affection, while Medeia is a powerful but vulnerable sorceress. The goddesses in the story act like typical Hellenistic women. Peter Green has translated the poem with skill, providing a fresh interpretation and commentary that addresses modern scholarly interest in the work.