A unique A-Z reference work of over 3,100 entries spanning the length and breadth of classical literature. It ranges from detailed biographies of authors, overviews of myths and legends, and explanations of literary styles, to topical entries on the wider aspects of classical society, and on the literary works that shed light on them. Third edition of the classical reference work first published in 1937, and in print for over 70 years An accessible and informative volume, with over 3,100 entries, fully revised and updated to reflect modern scholarship, and taking into account the advice of current lecturers and teachers in classics Contains accounts of the lives and works of the classical writers, from Aeschylus and Cicero to Seneca and Zosimus Includes character entries and plot summaries of the classical myths and legends, as well as comedies and tragedies by Greek and Roman playwrights, summaries of the philosophical works of Aristotle and Plato, and the works of the major historians Covers the origin and developments of different literary styles, including biography, epic, rhetoric, lyric poetry, and the writing of history Includes numerous topical entries on subjects such as aesthetics, anti-Semitism, childbirth, democracy (Athenian), love and sexuality, the soul, and universal and natural law, providing excellent overviews of important aspects of society and culture, as reflected in the classical literature Contains six detailed maps pinpointing important locations with literary connections, as well as a chronological table that gives easy access to events of both historical and literary significance