The best 19 Ancient books

Mythos (2017) is a fabulous retelling of the Greek myths. It provides a great introduction to anyone interested in knowing more about the Greek gods and goddesses without any preknowledge or a classical education.

The Divine Comedy (c. 1321) is an epic narrative poem that stands as one of the most celebrated works in Western literature. It tells the tale of a man who is taken on a journey through hell, purgatory, and finally to heaven. In doing so, it shows the path of one man’s soul toward God and reveals a philosophy that continues to be relevant today.

SPQR by Mary Beard offers a lively and engaging account of ancient Rome, exploring its politics, society, and culture. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Beard challenges common misconceptions and brings the history of Rome to life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of ancient civilizations.

Nefertiti by Michelle Moran is a captivating historical novel that brings ancient Egypt to life. It tells the story of Nefertiti, the powerful queen and wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten, and her sister Mutnodjmet. Filled with political intrigue, family drama, and the opulence of the Egyptian court, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary women.

Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield is a historical novel that vividly retells the legendary Battle of Thermopylae. Through the eyes of a young squire, it delves into the Spartan culture, honor, and the unfaltering courage of the 300 warriors who stood against the mighty Persian army. It is a gripping tale of sacrifice, loyalty, and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for freedom.

Persian Fire by Tom Holland is a captivating account of the Greco-Persian Wars, exploring the clash of civilizations between the mighty Persian Empire and the Greek city-states. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book brings to life the epic battles, political intrigues, and larger-than-life characters that shaped the course of history. It offers a fresh perspective on this ancient conflict and its enduring significance.

The Heretic Queen by Michelle Moran is a historical fiction novel that delves into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. Set during the reign of the famous pharaohs, it tells the story of Nefertari, a forgotten princess who rises to power and becomes the beloved queen of Egypt. Filled with political intrigue, romance, and betrayal, this book offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the ancient royals.

Ancient Secrets of a Master Healer by Clint G. Rogers delves into the profound wisdom and healing techniques of a Himalayan master. Through captivating storytelling and insightful teachings, the book unveils ancient secrets that have the power to transform our understanding of health and well-being. It offers a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, providing a roadmap for achieving holistic healing and inner peace.

If Not, Winter is a collection of translated poems by the ancient Greek poet Sappho. The title reflects the fragmented nature of Sappho's work, as many of her poems have been lost over time. Anne Carson carefully pieces together these fragments, offering a haunting and beautiful glimpse into the lyrical and emotional world of one of history's greatest poets.

The Ancient Book of Jasher is an intriguing ancient text that offers unique insights into biblical history and stories. Believed to have been written around 800 B.C., this book provides additional details and accounts of events mentioned in the Bible, shedding light on the lives of biblical figures such as Adam, Noah, and Abraham. It is a fascinating read for anyone interested in delving deeper into the ancient world and biblical narratives.

Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that tells the story of the warrior Beowulf and his battles against the monster Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a dragon. It is considered one of the most important works of Old English literature and has been translated and adapted numerous times over the centuries.

If Not, Winter is a collection of translated poems by the ancient Greek poet Sappho, beautifully rendered by Anne Carson. The book offers a glimpse into Sappho's lyrical and emotional verse, despite much of her work being lost to time. Carson presents the fragments with great care, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the evocative language and themes of love, desire, and the natural world.

Cleopatra by Stacy Schiff is a captivating biography that delves into the life of one of history's most enigmatic figures. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Schiff unravels the myths surrounding Cleopatra and presents a compelling account of her political prowess, romantic entanglements, and enduring legacy.

Rubicon by Tom Holland is a gripping account of the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book explores the political intrigue, power struggles, and larger-than-life characters that shaped this pivotal moment in history. It offers a fascinating insight into the ancient world and its relevance to our own time.

The Ancient Secret of the Flower of Life by Drunvalo Melchizedek delves into the mysteries of sacred geometry and its profound connection to the creation of the universe. Through ancient teachings and personal experiences, the book explores the significance of the Flower of Life symbol and its potential to unlock hidden knowledge about our existence.

The Oedipus Cycle by Sophocles is a collection of three timeless Greek tragedies: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus, and Antigone. These plays explore themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of our actions. They tell the gripping story of Oedipus, a man destined to fulfill a tragic prophecy, and the devastating effects it has on his family and kingdom.

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant is a captivating novel that reimagines the biblical story of Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. Set in ancient times, it offers a unique perspective on the lives of women and their relationships within a society dominated by men. Through beautiful storytelling, it brings to life a world of sisterhood, love, and resilience.

The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker is a retelling of the Trojan War from the perspective of the women who were captured and enslaved by the Greek army. It gives voice to the untold stories of Briseis, Achilles' concubine, and other female characters, shedding light on the brutal realities they faced and their resilience in the face of adversity.

The Upanishads is a collection of ancient Indian texts that explore the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth. Written in the form of philosophical dialogues, these profound teachings offer insights into the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of existence. Eknath Easwaran's translation and commentary provide a clear and accessible interpretation of these timeless wisdoms.