The Best of Hesiod's Theogony & Works and Days

Hesiod is celebrated for two epic poems. The Theogony recounts the birth of the gods from “the very beginning” and the progressive ordering of the cosmos. Beginning with Chaos, Desire (Eros), and Earth (Gaia), we witness Sky (Ouranos) and Kronos violently wield power until Zeus forcibly takes over after the great Titanomachy and justly allots the whole cosmos. The Works and Days is a book of advice—about how things are and why they are the way they are; about how to approach work and the hardships of life; about justice and injustice; about the road to success and wealth; and lastly, though doubtlessly there’s more, about the cycle of work to be done throughout the year and the character of and activities for each day of the month.
Aside from Hesiod’s epic poems, The Best of Hesiod’s Theogony & Works and Days begins with an informative introduction, presenting “Basic Facts about Hesiod” and “The Big Themes and Ideas of the Theogony & the Works and Days,” and ends with “Other Matters of Interest Related to Hesiod,” including “The Cast of Gods and Men,” maps of Hesiod’s Greece and cosmos, genealogical charts, a glossary of relevant Greek terms, and suggestions for further reading. Moreover, there is a section offering, “Points of Wisdom & Ways of Practice”—a chance to apply Hesiodic wisdom to and practice it in your own life.
What now? Strap on your felt-lined close-fitting oxhide boots and prepare to step into an ancient world that is bizarre and delightful in turn, as well as thought-provoking and full of good sense and counsel. Welcome to Hesiod’s cosmos!