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Bibliotheca (Library)
Pseudo-Apollodorus
A comprehensive handbook of Greek mythology organized by genealogy. Invaluable reference for many myths not preserved elsewhere.
Notable Academic Translations
James G. Frazer (1921)Robin Hard (1997)
Recommended Reading Order
The Bibliotheca serves as the ancient world's primary mythological reference handbook. Read Book II for Heracles and Perseus, Book I.9 for Jason and the Argonauts, and Epitome I-V for Theseus and the Trojan War cycle.
Canonical Figures in this Text
Key heroes and divinities who feature prominently across the chapters of this work
Heroes & Mortals
Heracles
Greatest of Greek heroes whose Twelve Labors, conquests, and apotheosis are systematically cataloged
Book II.4.8-II.7.8
Jason
Leader of the Argonauts who wins the Golden Fleece with the aid of the sorceress Medea
Book I.9.16-28
Theseus
Athenian champion who clears the Isthmian road and slays the Minotaur in Knossos
Epitome I.1-24
Oedipus
King of Thebes who solves the Sphinx's riddle and unknowingly fulfills the tragic prophecy of Laius
Book III.5.7-9
Achilles
Supreme Achaean warrior at Troy whose upbringing, invulnerability rites, and fatal duel with Hector are recorded
Book III.13.5-8, Epitome III-VDeities & Immortals
Perseus
Slayer of Medusa who rescues Andromeda from the sea-monster and fulfills the prophecy of Acrisius
Book II.4.1-5Key Dramatic Scenes
Pivotal passages and mythological turning points recorded in this canon
- I
The Twelve Labors of Heracles
(Book II.5.1-12)The definitive classical handbook record of all twelve labors imposed by Eurystheus, from the Nemean Lion to Cerberus.
- II
Perseus and the Gorgon Medusa
(Book II.4.2-3)Armed by Hermes and Athena with the reflective bronze shield and curved sickle, Perseus beheads the sleeping Medusa while looking only at her reflection.
- III
Theseus in the Cretan Labyrinth
(Epitome I.7-9)Guided through the twisting dark by Ariadne's golden thread, Theseus kills the Minotaur with his bare hands and leads the Athenian youths to safety.