40 pages • 1 hour read
Jason and the Golden Fleece
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Book Brief
216
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Ancient Greece • Mythological Era
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
In Apollonius of Rhodes' Jason and the Golden Fleece, Jason is tasked by King Pelias to retrieve the Golden Fleece from Colchis to eliminate him as a potential threat. Jason assembles a group of heroes, the Argonauts, and embarks on a perilous journey aboard the Argo. Along the way, they encounter numerous challenges, including battles, deceptive rulers, and mythical creatures, with the aid of the sorceress Medea, who falls in love with Jason and helps him overcome impossible tasks to secure the fleece. Violence, including murder and battles.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Romantic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
10,802 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jason and the Golden Fleece by Apollonius of Rhodes captivates with its rich mythological narrative and intricate character development. Readers praise its poetic language and historical significance. Critiques focus on its complex structure and dense passages, which may challenge some readers. Overall, it remains a compelling classic for enthusiasts of ancient literature.
Who Should Read Jason and the Golden Fleece?
Readers who enjoy mythological adventures and epic tales akin to Homer's The Odyssey and Virgil's The Aeneid will find Apollonius of Rhodes' Jason and the Golden Fleece captivating. Ideal for fans of heroic quests, classic literature, and settings rooted in ancient Greek culture.
10,802 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Medea
Medea
A sorceress and daughter of King Aietes of Cholcis, Medea plays a crucial role in the advancement of Jason's quest, possessing significant magical abilities linked to the goddess Hekate.
Orpheus
Orpheus
A musician on the quest and son of Muse Calliope, Orpheus uses his musical talents to maintain harmony among the Argonauts and protect them from dangers.
Peleus
Peleus
A steadfast and courageous member of the Argonauts, Peleus is best known as the father of the legendary warrior Achilles.
Herakles
Herakles
An iconic hero and former member of the Argonauts who represents a different, more traditional style of leadership and leaves a lasting impact on the quest despite his absence from much of the narrative.
216
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Ancient Greece • Mythological Era
Adult
14+ years
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