Ancient Greek Literature for Dummies

[Love_to_Read]

As much I love to read, I hated reading ancient Greek literature in school.  (Give me Shakespeare any day, but not Greek!)  Now that we're attempting our first history cycle of classical education, I'm hoping to read some better versions, gain a little appreciation, and not pass on my dislike to the kids.  I don't want to get bogged down in it forever, though....I want to move on to Romans, etc.

So, help me out.  In very brief terms, can anyone tell me the difference between the Illiad, Aneid, and Odyessy?  Where do they fit in history? Should I teach all three, or just give them a small taste of one? 

 

Do I need to teach Greek drama before high school? Are any of the plays even remotely appropriate?  I very vaguely remember reading Medea in 9th grade, I think, or maybe 12th....but I haven't seen it yet on any booklists like Sonlight, Tapestry of Grace, etc. I have two grammar students (2nd and 3rd) and one logic stage (7th), all doing their first pass through ancient history at home. 


Thoughts? Favorites?  

[umsami]

Mary Pope Osborne (of Magic Tree House fame) did  a good version of "The Odyssey" which might work for your younger kids.  Your 7th grader might enjoy it as well.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Odyssey-Part-Mary-Osborne-ebook/dp/B0093PLKB6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407959461&sr=8-2&keywords=mary+pope+osbourne+odyssey

 

My son loved her Norse Myths.

 

I don't actually think you need to teach it before high school, though.

 

 

[Violet Crown]

For the younger set, mine all loved the the Golden Press, Provensen-illustrated Iliad and Odyssey, and Myths and Legends.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Iliad-Odyssey-Golden-Deluxe-Edition/dp/B000JJPUU2#

http://www.amazon.com/Golden-Treasury-Legends-Adapted-Classics/dp/030760747X/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

 

A little poking around and patience can usually get them for a reasonable price.