The King Must Die

The Everyman’s Library edition of the Mary Renault classic story The King Must Die and The Bull from the Sea is a beautiful edition and a lovely addition to any book lover’s shelf. Renault’s work still reads fresh, even after its first publication in the 1950s. In these tales, she offers a re-imagining of the myth of Theseus, from his beginnings in Troizen to his tragic ending with his wife, bringing a fresh look at a flawed hero and a new interpretation of the gods. Balancing history and myth, Renault’s work delves into the depths of human motivation and emotion while reconciling the often conflicting information about Theseus and his adventures.

Daniel Mendelsohn offers an insightful introduction to the volume, giving background for both the author as well as the myth and culture. Renault herself is as interesting as her subject, as are the tidbits about her motivations behind this story.

Prepare to be swept back to ancient Greece in this classic, and admire it on your bookshelf for years to come.