The Legend of Perseus, Volume 1 (of 3): The Supernatural Birth

A scholarly work that intricately studies the classical myth of Perseus through the lens of folklore and anthropology, written in the late 19th century. This book delves into the various stories surrounding the legendary figure, examining the diverse incidents within the myth and their evolution across cultures. Hartland aims to reveal the universal ideas represented by the myth and how they manifest in both ancient cultures and modern folklore, exploring themes like supernatural birth and heroism. At the start of the study, Hartland outlines the classical narrative of Perseus, detailing his extraordinary birth and the challenges he faced, including battles against the Gorgon Medusa and a sea monster. The author also introduces the background of the myth, emphasizing its significance and common motifs found across global traditions, such as the notable concept of supernatural birth. Hartland indicates that this volume will focus on the origins of these stories, their motifs throughout cultural history, and the enduring legacy of Perseus as a heroic archetype, setting the stage for a comprehensive analysis in subsequent chapters.