Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology [1 ed.] 9781433384042, 9781425809874

Citation preview

Mythology

Retold by Stephanie Paris

Contributing Author

Publishing Credits

Wendy Conklin, M.S.

Dona Herweck Rice, Editor-in-Chief; Robin Erickson, Production Director; Lee Aucoin, Creative Director; Timothy J. Bradley, Illustration Manager; Sara Johnson, M.S.Ed., Senior Editor; Evelyn Garcia, Associate Education Editor; Grace Alba, Designer; Corinne Burton, M.A.Ed., Publisher

Image Credits p. 31–150, The Bridgeman Art Library; Cover & all other images Shutterstock

Standards © 2004 Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) © 2010 National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSS)

Shell Education 5301 Oceanus Drive Huntington Beach, CA 92649 http://www.shelleducation.com ISBN 978-1-4258-0987-4 © 2013 Shell Educational Publishing, Inc.

The classroom teacher may reproduce copies of materials in this book for classroom use only. The reproduction of any part for an entire school or school system is strictly prohibited. No part of this publication may be transmitted, stored, or recorded in any form without written permission from the publisher.

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Table of Contents What Is Fiction? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The Importance of Using Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Elements of Fiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 A Closer Look at Mythology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Leveled Texts to Differentiate Instruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Teaching Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 How to Use This Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Correlation to Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Setting Passages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Odin’s Eye. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Perseus and Medusa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Theseus and the Minotaur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Character Passages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Romulus and Remus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Paris and the Golden Apple. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Perseus and the Gray Women. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Plot Passages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Cupid and Psyche. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Echo and Narcissus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Midas and the Golden Touch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Orpheus and Eurydice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Language Usage Passages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Persephone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 The Trojan Horse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Sif’s Golden Hair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Thor and Elli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 References Cited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151 Digital Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

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What Is Fiction? Fiction is the work of imaginative narration. In other words, it is something that is made, as opposed to something that has happened or something that is discovered. It helps bring our imaginations to life, since it offers an escape into a world where everything happens for a reason—nothing is by chance. Fiction includes three main elements: plot (sequence), character, and setting (place). Each event occurs in a logical order, and somehow, the conflict is resolved. Fiction promises a resolution in the end, and so the reader waits for resolution as the characters change, grow, and survive experiences. We are drawn to fiction because it is very close to the story of our lives. Fiction suggests that our own stories will have meaning and a resolution in the end. Perhaps that might be the reason why we love fiction—it delivers what it promises. Fiction compels its readers to care about the characters whether they are loyal friends or conniving enemies. Readers dream about the characters and mourn their heartaches. Readers might feel that they know a fictional character’s story intimately because he or she reminds them of a friend or family member. Additionally, the place described in the story might feel like a real place the reader has visited or would like to visit.

Fiction vs. Nonfiction Fiction is literature that stems from the imagination and includes genres such as mystery, adventure, fairy tales, and fantasy. Fiction can include facts, but the story is not true in its entirety. Facts are often exaggerated or manipulated to suit an author’s intent for the story. Realistic fiction uses plausible characters and storylines, but the person and/or events narrated do not really exist. In addition, fiction is descriptive, elaborate, and designed to entertain. It allows readers to make their own interpretations based on the text. Nonfiction includes a wide variety of written styles that deal exclusively with real events, people, places, and things such as biographies, cookbooks, historical records, and science reports. Nonfiction is literature based on facts or perceived facts. In literature form, nonfiction deals with events that have actually taken place and relies on existing facts. Nonfiction writing is entirely fact based. It states only enough to establish a fact or idea and is meant to be informative. Nonfiction is typically direct, clear, and simple in its message. Despite the differences, both fiction and nonfiction have a benefit and purpose for all readers. In the words of author Thomas Carlyle (1840), “All that mankind has done, thought, gained, or been; it is lying as in magic preservation in the pages of books.”

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The Importance of Using Fiction Reading fiction has many benefits: it stimulates the imagination, promotes creative thinking, increases vocabulary, and improves writing skills. However, “students often hold negative attitudes about reading because of dull textbooks or being forced to read” (Bean 2000). Fiction books can stimulate imagination. It is easy to get carried away with the character Percy Jackson as he battles the gods in The Lightning Thief (Riordan 2005). Readers can visualize what the author depicts. Researcher Keith Oatley (2009) states that fiction allows individuals to stimulate the minds of others in a sense of expanding on how characters might be feeling and what they might be thinking. When one reads fiction, one cannot help but visualize the nonexistent characters and places of the story. Lisa Zunshine (2006) has emphasized that fiction allows readers to engage in a theory-of-mind ability that helps them practice what the characters experience. Since the work of fiction is indirect, it requires analysis if one is to get beyond the surface of the story. On the surface, one can view Moby Dick (Melville 1851) as an adventure story about a man hunting a whale. On closer examination and interpretation, the novel might be seen as a portrayal of good and evil. When a reader examines, interprets, and analyzes a work of fiction, he or she is promoting creative thinking. Creativity is a priceless commodity, as it facilitates problem solving, inventions, and creations of all kinds, and promotes personal satisfaction as well. Reading fiction also helps readers build their vocabularies. Readers cannot help but learn myriad new words in Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (1999). Word knowledge and reading comprehension go hand in hand. In fact, “vocabulary knowledge is one of the best predictors of reading achievement” (Richek 2005). Further, “vocabulary knowledge promotes reading fluency, boosts reading comprehension, improves academic achievement, and enhances thinking and communication” (Bromley 2004). Most researchers believe that students have the ability to add between 2,000 to 3,000 new words each school year, and by fifth grade, that number can be as high as 10,000 new words in their reading alone (Nagy and Anderson 1984). By exposing students to a variety of reading selections, educators can encourage students to promote the vocabulary growth that they need to be successful. Finally, reading fictional text has a strong impact on students’ ability as writers. According to Gay Su Pinnell (1988), “As children read and write, they make the connections that form their basic understandings about both….There is ample evidence to suggest that the processes are inseparable and that teachers should examine pedagogy in the light of these interrelationships.” Many of the elements students encounter while reading fiction can transition into their writing abilities.

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The Importance of Using Fiction

(cont.)

Text Complexity Text complexity refers to reading and comprehending various texts with increasing complexity as students progress through school and within their reading development. The Common Core State Standards (2010) state that “by the time they [students] complete the core, students must be able to read and comprehend independently and proficiently the kinds of complex texts commonly found in college and careers.” In other words, by the time students complete high school, they must be able to read and comprehend highly complex texts, so students must consistently increase the level of complexity tackled at each grade level. Text complexity relies on the following combination of quantitative and qualitative factors:

Quantitative Factors Word Frequency

This is how often a particular word appears in the text. If an unfamiliar high-frequency word appears in a text, chances are the student will have a difficult time understanding the meaning of the text.

Sentence Length

Long sentences and sentences with embedded clauses request a lot of a reader.

Word Length

This is the number of syllables in a word. Longer words are not by definition hard to read but certainly can be.

Text Length

This refers to the number of words within the text passage.

Text Cohesion

This is the overall structure of the text. A high-cohesion text guides readers by signaling relationships among sentences through repetition and concrete language. A low-cohesion text does not have such support.

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The Importance of Using Fiction

(cont.)

Qualitative Factors (cont.) Level of Meaning or Purpose of Text

This refers to the objective and/or purpose for reading.

Structure

Texts that display low complexity are known for their simple structure. Texts that display high complexity are known for disruptions to predictable understandings.

Language Convention and Clarity

Texts that deviate from contemporary use of English tend to be more challenging to interpret.

Knowledge Demands

This refers to the background knowledge students are expected to have prior to reading a text. Texts that require students to possess a certain amount of previous knowledge are more complex than those that assume students have no prior knowledge.

(Adapted from the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers 2010) The use of qualitative and quantitative measures to assess text complexity is demonstrated in the expectation that educators possess the ability to match the appropriate texts to the appropriate students. The passages in Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology vary in text complexity and will provide leveled versions of classic complex texts so that educators can scaffold students’ comprehension of these texts. Educators can choose passages for students to read based on the reading level as well as the qualitative and quantitative complexity factors in order to find texts that are “just right” instructionally.

Genres of Fiction There are many different fiction genres. The Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction series focuses on the following genres: adventure, fantasy and science fiction, mystery, historical fiction, mythology, humor, and Shakespeare. Adventure stories transport readers to exotic places like deserted islands, treacherous mountains, and the high seas. This genre is dominated by fast-paced action. The plot often focuses on a hero’s quest and features a posse that help him or her achieve the goal. The story confronts the protagonist with events that disrupt his or her normal life and puts the character in danger. The story involves exploring and conquering the unknown accompanied by much physical action, excitement, and risk. The experience changes the protagonist in many ways.

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The Importance of Using Fiction

(cont.)

Fantasy and science fiction are closely related. Fantasy, like adventure, involves quests or journeys that the hero must undertake. Within fantasy, magic and the supernatural are central and are used to suggest universal truths. Events happen outside the laws that govern our universe. Science fiction also operates outside of the laws of physics but typically takes place in the future, space, another world, or an alternate dimension. Technology plays a strong role in this genre. Both science fiction and fantasy open up possibilities (such as living in outer space and talking to animals) because the boundaries of the real world cannot confine the story. Ideas are often expressed using symbols. Mystery contains intriguing characters with suspenseful plots and can often feel very realistic. The story revolves around a problem or puzzle to solve: Who did it? What is it? How did it happen? Something is unknown, or a crime needs to be solved. Authors give readers clue to the solution in a mystery but they also distract the reader by intentionally misleading them. Historical fiction focuses on a time period from the past with the intent of offering insight into what it was like to live during that time. This genre incorporates historical research into the stories to make them feel believable. However, much of the story is fictionalized, whether it is conversations or characters. Often, these stories reveal that concerns from the past are still concerns. Historical fiction center on historical events, periods, or figures. Myths are collections of sacred stories from ancient societies. Myths are ways to explain questions about the creation of the world, the gods, and human life. For example, mythological stories often explain why natural events like storms or floods occur or how the world and living things came to be in existence. Myths can be filled with adventures conflicts between humans and gods with extraordinary powers. These gods possess emotions and personality traits that are similar to humans. Humor can include parody, joke books, spoofs, and twisted tales, among others. Humorous stories are written with the intent of being light hearted and fun in order to make people laugh and to entertain. Often, these stories are written with satire and dry wit. Humorous stories also can have a very serious or dark side, but the ways in which the characters react and handle the situations make them humorous. Shakespeare’s plays can be classified in three genres: comedy, tragedy, and history. Shakespeare wrote his plays during the late 1500s and early 1600s and performed many of them in the famous Globe Theater in London, England. Within each play is not just one coherent story but also a set of two or three stories that can be described as “plays within a play.” His plays offer multiple perspectives and contradictions to make the stories rich and interesting. Shakespeare is noted for his ability to bring thoughts to life. He used his imagination to adapt stories, history, and other plays to entertain his audiences.

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Elements of Fiction The many common characteristics found throughout fiction are known as th elements of fiction. Among such elements are point of view, character, setting, and plot. Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction concentrates on setting, plot, and character, with an emphasis on language usage. Language usage typically refers to the rules for making language. This series includes the following elements: personification, hyperbole, alliteration, onomatopoeia, imagery, symbolism, metaphor, and word choice. The table below provides a brief description of each.

Language Usage

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Definition

Example

Personification

Giving human traits to nonhuman things

The chair moaned when she sat down on it.

Hyperbole

Extreme exaggeration

He was so hungry, he could eat a horse.

Alliteration

Repetition of the beginning consonant sounds

She sold seashells by the seashore.

Onomatopoeia

Forming a word from the sound it makes

Knock-knock, woof, bang, sizzle, hiss

Imagery

Language that creates a meaningful visual experience for the reader

His socks filled the room with a smell similar to a wet dog on a hot day.

Symbolism

Using objects to represent something else

A heart represents love.

Metaphor

Comparison of two unrelated things

My father is the rock of our family.

Word Choice

Words that an author uses to make the story memorable and to capture the reader’s attention

In chapter two of Holes by Louis Sachar (2000), the author directly addresses the reader, saying, “The reader is probably asking….” The author predicts what the reader is wondering.

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Elements of Fiction

(cont.)

Setting is the where and when of a story’s action. Understanding setting is important to the interpretation of the story. The setting takes readers to other times and places. Setting plays a large part in what makes a story enjoyable for the reader. Plot forms the core of what the story is about and establishes the chain of events that unfolds in the story. Plot contains a character’s motivation and the subsequent cause and effect of the character’s actions. A plot diagram is an organizational tool that focuses on mapping out the events in a story. By mapping out the plot structure, students are able to visualize the key features of a story. The following is an example of a plot diagram:

Plot Diagram Climax

ng

li Fal tion

Exposition

Ac

Rising Action

Resolution

Characters are the people in the story. The protagonist is the main or leading character. He or she might be the narrator of the story. The antagonist is the force or character that acts against the protagonist. This antagonist is not always a person; it could be things such as weather, technology, or even a vehicle. Both the protagonist and antagonist can be considered dynamic, which means that they change or grow during the story as opposed to remaining static, or unchanging, characters. Readers engage with the text as they try to understand what motivates the characters to think and act as they do. Desires, values, and outside pressures all motivate characters’ actions and help to determine the story’s outcome.

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A Closer Look at Mythology Mythologies are stories designed to explain questions about the world, higher powers of the gods, and our lives. In other words, these stories explain how things came to be as we know them. In these stories, the gods argue and possess the same emotions and personality traits as mortals. The mortals have adventures and often the gods intervene on their behalfs. In this book, you will find stories from classic fiction works of mythology. The titles are as follows:

• Odin’s Eye • Perseus and Medusa • Theseus and the Minotaur • Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race • Romulus and Remus • Paris and the Golden Apple • Perseus and the Gray Women • Cupid and Psyche • Echo and Narcissus • Midas and the Golden Touch • Orpheus and Eurydice • Persephone • The Trojan Horse • Sif’s Golden Hair • Thor and Elli

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A Closer Look at Mythology

(cont.)

Although there are many elements of fiction that can be studied in each passage of this book, the chart below outlines the strongest element portrayed in each passage.

Elements of Fiction

Passage Title • Odin’s Eye

Setting

• Perseus and Medusa • Theseus and the Minotaur • Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race

Character

• Romulus and Remus • Paris and the Golden Apple • Perseus and the Gray Women • Cupid and Psyche

Plot

• Echo and Narcissus • Midas and the Golden Touch • Orpheus and Eurydice • Persephone

Language Usage

• The Trojan Horse • Sif’s Golden Hair • Thor and Elli

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Leveled Texts to Differentiate Instruction Today’s classrooms contain diverse pools of learners. Above-level, on-level, below-level, and English language learners all come together to learn from one teacher in one classroom. The teacher is expected to meet their diverse needs. These students have different learning styles, come from different cultures, experience a variety of emotions, and have varied interests. And, they differ in academic readiness when it comes to reading. At times, the challenges teachers face can be overwhelming as they struggle to create learning environments that address the differences in their students while at the same time ensure that all students master the required grade-level objectives. What is differentiation? Carol Ann Tomlinson say, “Differentiation is simply a teacher attending to the learning needs of a particular student or small group of students, rather than teaching a class as though all individuals in it were basically alike” (2000). Any teacher who keeps learners at the forefront of his or her instruction can successfully provide differentiation. The effective teacher asks, “What am I going to do to shape instruction to meet the needs of all my learners?” One method or methodology will not reach all students. Differentiation includes what is taught, how it is taught, and the products students create to show what they have learned. When differentiating curriculum, teachers become organizers of learning opportunities within the classroom environment. These opportunities are often referred to as content, process, and product.

• Content: Differentiating the content means to put more depth into the curriculum through organizing the curriculum concepts and structure of knowledge. • Process: Differentiating the process requires using varied instructional techniques and materials to enhance student learning. • Product: Cognitive development and students’ abilities to express themselves improves when products are differentiated.

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Leveled Texts to Differentiate Instruction (cont.)

Teachers should differentiate content, process, and product according to students’ differences. These differences include student readiness, learning styles, and interests.

• Readiness: If a learning experience aligns closely with students’ previous skills and understanding of a topic, they will learn better. • Learning styles: Teachers should create assignments that allow students to complete work according to their personal preferences and styles. • Interests: If a topic sparks excitement in the learners, then students will become involved in learning and better remember what is taught.

Typically, reading teachers select different novels or texts that are leveled for their classrooms because only one book may either be too difficult or too easy for a particular group of students. One group of students will read one novel while another group reads another, and so on. What makes Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology unique is that all students, regardless of reading level, can read the same selection from a story and can participate in whole-class discussions about it. This is possible because each selection is leveled at four different reading levels to accommodate students’ reading abilities. Regardless of the reading level, all of the selections present the same content. Teachers can then focus on the same content standard or objective for the whole class, but individual students can access the content at their particular instructional levels rather than their frustration level and avoid the frustration of a selection at too high or low a level. Excerpt from

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race

omenes, and Hipp AtalantaTh e Race Excerpt from

retold by Stephanie Paris

hanie Paris retold by Step

Atalanta who ess named er. lived a princ ies as a hunt Once there rkable abilit men to best the for her rema was renowned great pride in being able drawn took famously had Indeed, she of skill. She had sent to in all feats that Artemis boar of the realm s an to a monstrou the only wom ht first blood on soug she had been they And as s. land nauts punish the and his Argo the king, hero Jason her father, y sail with the her return, d only to marr Fleece. Upon the Golden Atalanta agree who lost she be wed. ace. Those wished that her in a footr best could a man who to death! would be put of realms knew in the local willing to of the men Now, most d, so few were had gth and spee one man who Atalanta’s stren However, there was His name was run. the attempt nta from afar. knew that loved Atala swift, but he and g watched and prayed He was stron race, so he d Hippomenes. him in a fair move beat was still d odite Atalanta woul of love. Aphr es. She gave , the goddess omen to Aphrodite the to help Hipp use them in and decided told him to by his plea n apples and far ahead. getting too him three golde was nta Atala race whenever rs were in fine both competito but soon, of the race, lead, On the day d to a quick the to lengthen omenes darte of she started form. Hipp out the first ook him. As omenes took Atalanta overt them, Hipp of Atalanta een front in betw distance rolled it out ed to apples. He Atalanta stopp us, Aphrodite’s curio she stood Surprised and a moment, as she ran. ned t. For just regai objec n golde Then she pick up the perfection. the race. its glowing g back into , and spran transfixed by ook tucked it away nta again overt princess. her purpose, tually, Atala ahead of the neck, but even gave he rolled it n orb. This were neck and nd apple, and The racers ve the golde came the seco ed to retrie Out paus es. again the race. d, she Hippomen his lead in was well ahea ed to regain need Knowing she he the chance n: Mythology Hippomenes #50987—L

Fictio for Classic eveled Texts

ation © Shell Educ

ELL Level

Once there lived a princess named Atalanta. She was famous for her abilities as a hunter. She took great pride in besting the men of the realm in all feats of skill. She had drawn first blood on a monstrous boar that Artemis had sent to punish the lands. And she had been the only woman to sail with Jason and his Argonauts when they sought the Golden Fleece. Upon her return, her father, the king, wished that she be wed. Atalanta agreed. But she would only marry a man who could best her in a footrace. Those who lost would be put to death! Now, most of the men in the local realms knew of Atalanta’s strength and speed. So few were willing to attempt the run. But there was one man who had watched and loved Atalanta from afar. His name was Hippomenes. He was strong and swift. But he knew that Atalanta would still beat him in a fair race. So he prayed to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Aphrodite was moved by his plea. She decided to help Hippomenes. She gave him three golden apples and told him to use them in the race whenever Atalanta was getting too far ahead. On the day of the race, both competitors were in fine form. Hippomenes darted to a quick lead. Soon though, Atalanta overtook him. As she started to lengthen the distance between them, Hippomenes took out the first of Aphrodite’s apples. He rolled it out in front of Atalanta as she ran. Surprised and curious, Atalanta stopped to pick up the golden object. For just a moment, she stood transfixed by its glowing perfection. Then she regained her purpose. She tucked it away and sprang back into the race.

Excerpt from

omenes, Atalanta and Hipp The Race retold by Stephanie Paris

She a princess named Atalanta. Long ago, there lived men in all And she loved to best was a famous hunter. a huge goddess Artemis had sent feats of skill. Once, the drew punish the lands. Atalanta boar. It was meant to the only woman to been had she And it. first blood on they with his Argonauts when sail with Jason. She went Her father, the king, wanted sought the Golden Fleece. only marry agreed. But she would her to marry. Atalanta who lost her in a footrace. Any a man who could beat would be killed! and knew Atalanta was fast Most of the local men one man. the race. But there was strong. Few would try His from afar. He loved her. He had watched Atalanta But he He was strong and fast. name was Hippomenes. He prayed. he So beat him. knew that she could still was goddess of love. Aphrodite spoke to Aphrodite, the gave him help Hippomenes. She to decided She moved. Atalanta could use them when three golden apples. He was winning the race. Both racers were in good The day of the race came. though, to a quick lead. Soon form. Hippomenes darted the She started to lengthen Atalanta overtook him. out the But Hippomenes took distance between them. of He rolled it out in front apples. ’s Aphrodite of first curious. was surprised! She was Atalanta. The princess as if stood She the golden fruit. . She stopped to pick up by its glowing perfection in a trance. She was charmed the apple her situation. She tucked red remembe she Then into the race. away. She sprang back

The racers were neck and neck for a while. Then Atalanta again overtook Hippomenes. Out came the second apple. He rolled it ahead of the princess. Knowing she was well ahead, she again paused to retrieve the golden Hippomenes the chance orb. This gave he needed to regain his lead in the race. © Shell Education

came again took the lead. Out and neck. Then Atalanta she The racers were neck of the princess. She knew young man rolled it ahead gave the second apple. The up the golden orb. This again paused. She picked was well ahead. So she his lead in the race. he needed! He regained Hippomenes the chance

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for Classic Fiction: Mythology #50987—Leveled Texts

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

On Level 57

Excerpt from

Atalanta and H omenes, The Racipp e retold by Step hanie Paris

Once there lived a princ ess named was renowned Atalanta who for her rema Indeed, she rkable abilit took great pride ies as a hunt er. of the realm in being able in all feats to best the of skill. She men first blood on famously had a monstrou drawn s boar that punish the Artemis had lands. And sent to she had been sail with the the hero Jason only woman and the Golden to Fleece. Upon his Argonauts as they sought her return, wished that her she be wed. Atalanta agree father, the king, a man who could best d only to marr her in a footr would be put y ace. Those to death! who lost Now, most of Atalanta’s stren the men in the local realm gth and spee s knew of attempt the run. However, d, so few were willing to watched and there was one loved Atala man who had nta from afar. Hippomenes. His name was He was stron Atalanta woul g and swift , but he knew d still beat him in a fair that to Aphrodite race, so he , the goddess prayed of love. Aphr by his plea and decided odite was move to help Hipp him three golde d omenes. She n gave race whenever apples and told him to use them Atalanta was in the getting too far ahead. On the day of the race, both competito form. Hipp omen rs were in fine Atalanta overt es darted to a quick lead, but soon ook him. As , distance betw she een them, Hipp started to lengthen the Aphrodite’s omenes took apples. He out the first rolle as she ran. of Surprised and d it out in front of Atala nta curious, Atala pick up the golden objec nta stopped t. For just to transfixed by a moment, she its glowing stood perfe her purpose, tucked it away ction. Then she regai ned , and spran g back into the race. The racers were neck and Hippomenes. neck, but even Out came the tually, Atala Knowing she second appl nta again overt was well ahea e, and he rolle ook Hippomenes d, she again d the chance paused to retrie it ahead of the princess. he needed ve the golde to regain his n orb. This lead in the gave race. © Shell Education

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Leveled Texts to Differentiate Instruction (cont.)

Teachers should use the texts in this series to scaffold the content for their students. At the beginning of the year, students at the lowest reading levels may need focused teacher guidance. As the year progresses, teachers can begin giving students multiple levels of the same text to allow them to work independently at improving their comprehension. This means that each student will have a copy of the text at his or her independent reading level and at the instructional reading level. As students read the instructional-level texts, they can use the lower leveled texts to better understand difficult vocabulary. By scaffolding the content in this way, teachers can support students as they move up through the reading levels and encourage them to work with texts that are closer to the grade level at which they will be tested. A teacher does not need to draw attention to the fact that the texts are leveled. Nor should they hide it. Teachers who want students to read the text together can use homogenous groups and distribute the texts after students join the groups. Or, teachers can distribute copies of the appropriate level to each student by copying the pages and separating them by each level.

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Teaching Suggestions Strategies for Higher-Order Thinking Open-ended questions are a great way to infuse higher-order thinking skills into instruction. Open-ended questions have many appropriate answers and are exclusively dependent on the creativity of the student. The end result is open, not closed, and facilitates higher-order thinking in students. Rarely do these questions have only one correct answer. It is up to the students to think and decide on their own what the answer should be. This is critical thinking at its very best. The following are some characteristics of open-ended questions:

• They ask students to think and reflect. • They ask students to provide their feelings and opinions. • They make students responsible for the control of the conversation.

There are many reasons to prefer open-ended over closed-ended questions. First, students must know the facts of the story to answer open-ended questions. Any higher-order question by necessity will encompass lower-order, fact-based questions. For a student to be able to answer a what if question (which is an example of an open-ended question), he or she must know the content of the story (which is a lower-level fact). Open-ended questions also stimulate students to go beyond typical questions about a text. They spark real conversations about a text and are enriching. As a result, more students will be eager to participate in class discussions. In a more dynamic atmosphere, students will naturally make outside connections to the text and there will be no need to force such connections. Some students may, at first be resistant to open-ended questions, because they are afraid to think creatively. Years of looking for the one correct answer make many students fear failure and embarrassment if they get the “wrong” answer. It will take time for these students to become at ease with these questions. Model how to answer such questions. Keep encouraging students to answer them. Most importantly, be patient. The following are some examples of open-ended questions: • Why do you think the author selected this setting?

• What are some explanations for the character’s decisions? • What are some lessons that this passage can teach us? • How do the words set the mood or tone of this passage?

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Teaching Suggestions

(cont.)

Strategies for Higher-Order Thinking (cont.) The tables below and on the following page are examples of open-ended questions and question stems that are specific to the elements of fiction covered in this series. Choose questions to challenge students to think more deeply about specific elements.

Setting • In what ways did the setting… • Describe the ways the author used setting to… • What if the setting changed to… • What are some possible explanations for selecting this setting? • What is the best setting for this story, and why is it better? • Why did the author select this setting? • What new element would you add to this setting to make it better? • Explain several reasons why the characters fit well in this setting. • Explain several reasons why the characters might fit better in a new setting. • What makes this setting predictable or unpredictable? • What setting would make the story more exciting? Explain. • What setting would make the story dull? Explain. • Why is the setting important to the story?

Character • What is the likelihood that the character will… • Form a hypothesis about what might happen to the character if… • In what ways did the character show his thoughts by his actions? • How might you have done this differently than the character? • What are some possible explanations for the character’s decisions about… • Explain several reasons why the characters fit well in this setting. • Explain several reasons why the characters don’t fit well in this setting. • What are some ways you would improve this character’s description? • Predict what the character will do next. Explain. • What makes this character believable? • For what reasons do you like or dislike this character? • What makes this character memorable? • What is the character thinking?

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Teaching Suggestions

(cont.)

Plot • How does this event affect… • Predict the outcome… • What other outcomes could have been possible, and why? • What problems does this create? • What is the likelihood… • Propose a solution. • Form a hypothesis. • What is the theme of this story? • What is the moral of this story? • What lessons could this story teach us? • How is this story similar to other stories you have read? • How is this story similar to other movies you have watched? • What sequel could result from this story?

Language Usage • Describe the ways the author used language to… • In what ways did language usage… • What is the best description of… • How would you have described this differently? • What is a better way of describing this, and what makes it better? • How can you improve upon the word selection… • How can you improve upon the description of… • What other words could be substituted for… • What pictures do the words paint in your mind? • How do the words set the mood or tone? • Why would the author decide to use… • What are some comparisons you could add to… • In what ways could you add exaggeration to this sentence?

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Teaching Suggestions

(cont.)

Reading Strategies for Literature The college and career readiness anchor standards within the Common Core State Standards in reading (National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers 2010) include understanding key ideas and details, recognizing craft and structure, and being able to integrate knowledge and ideas. The following two pages offer practical strategies for achieving these standards using the texts found in this book.

Identifying Key Ideas and Details • Have students work together to create talking tableaux based on parts of the text that infer information. A tableau is a freeze-frame where students are asked to pose and explain the scene from the text they are depicting. As students stand still, they take turns breaking away from the tableau to tell what is being inferred at that moment and how they know this. While this strategy is good for all students, it is a strong activity for English language learners because they have an opportunity for encoding and decoding with language and actions. • Theme is the lesson that the story teaches its readers. It can be applied to everyone, not just the characters in the story. Have students identify the theme and write about what happens that results in their conclusions. Ask students to make connections as to how they can apply the theme to their lives. Allow below-grade-level writers to record this information, use graphic organizers for structure, or illustrate their answers in order to make the information more concrete for them. • Have students draw a picture of the character during an important scene in the story, and use thought bubbles to show the character’s secret thoughts based on specific details found in the text. This activity can benefit everyone, but it is very effective for below-grade-level writers and English language learners. Offering students an opportunity to draw their answers provides them with a creative method to communicate their ideas. • Have students create before-and-after pictures that show how the characters change over the course of the story. Encourage above-grade-level students to examine characters’ personality traits and how the characters’ thoughts change. This activity encourages students to think about the rationale behind the personality traits they assigned to each character.

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Teaching Suggestions

(cont.)

Reading Strategies for Literature (cont.) Understanding Craft and Structure • Ask students to identify academic vocabulary in the texts and practice using the words in a “meet and greet” activity in the classroom walking around and having conversations using them. This gives English language learners an opportunity to practice language acquisition in an authentic way. • Have students create mini-posters that display the figurative language used in the story. This strategy encourages below-grade-level students to show what they have learned. • Allow students to work in pairs to draw sets of stairs on large paper, and then write how each part of the story builds on the previous part and fits together to provide the overall structure of the story. Partner homogenously so that above-grade-level students will challenge one another. • Select at least two or three texts and have students compare the point of view from which the different stories are narrated. Then, have students change the point of view (e.g., if the story is written in first person, have students rewrite a paragraph in third person). This is a challenging activity specifically suited for on-grade-level and above-grade-level students to stimulate higher-order thinking. • Pose the following questions to students: What if the story is told from a different point of view? How does that change the story? Have students select another character’s point of view and brainstorm lists of possible changes. This higher-order thinking activity is open-ended and effective for on-level, above-level, below-level, and English language learners.

Integrating Knowledge and Ideas • Show students a section from a movie, a play, or a reader’s theater about the story. Have students use graphic organizers to compare and contrast parts of the text with scenes from one of these other sources. Such visual displays support comprehension for below-level and English language learners. • Have students locate several illustrations in the text, and then rate the illustrations based on their effective visuals. This higher-order thinking activity is open-ended and is great for on-level, below-level, above-level, and English language learners. • Let students create playlists of at least five songs to go with the mood and tone of the story. Then instruct students to give an explanation for each chosen song. Musically inclined students tend to do very well with this type of activity. It also gives a reason for writing, which can engage below-grade-level writers. • Have students partner up to create talk show segment that discusses similar themes found in the story. Each segment should last between one and two minutes and can be performed live or taped. Encourage students to use visuals, props, and other tools to make it real. Be sure to homogenously group students for this activity and aid your below-level students so they can be successful. This activity allows for all students to bring their creative ideas to the table and positively contribute to the end result. © Shell Education

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Teaching Suggestions

(cont.)

Fiction as a Model for Writing It is only natural that reading and writing go hand in hand in students’ literacy development. Both are important for functioning in the real world as adults. Established pieces of fiction, like the ones in this book, serve as models for how to write effectively. After students read the texts in this book, take time for writing instruction. Below are some ideas for writing mini-lessons, that can be taught using the texts from this book as writing exemplars.

How to Begin Writing a Story Instead of beginning a story with Once upon a time or Long, long ago, teach students to mimic the styles of well-known authors. As students begin writing projects, show them a variety of first sentences or paragraphs written by different authors. Discuss how these selections are unique. Encourage students to change or adapt the types of beginnings found in the models to make their own story hooks.

Using Good Word Choice Good word choice can make a significant difference in writing. Help students paint vivid word pictures by showing them examples within the passages found in this book. Instead of writing I live in a beautiful house, students can write I live in a yellow-framed house with black shutters and white pillars that support the wraparound porch. Encourage students to understand that writing is enriched with sensory descriptions that include what the characters smell, hear, taste, touch, and see. Make students aware of setting the emotional tone in their stories. In an instant, the hair on the back of his neck stood up, the door creaked open, and a hand reached through. This example sets a scary mood. Hyperbole is also a great tool to use for effect in stories.

Character Names Can Have Meaning Students can use names to indicate clues about their characters’ personalities. Mrs. Strict could be a teacher, Dr. Molar could be a dentist, and Butch could be the class bully. Remind students that the dialogue between their characters should be real, not forced. Students should think about how people really talk and write dialogue using jargon and colorful words, for example, “Hey you little twerp, come back here!” yelled Brutus.

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How to Use This Book Classroom Management for Leveled Texts Determining your students’ instructional reading levels is the first step in the process of effectively managing the leveled-text passages. It is important to assess their reading abilities often so they do not get stuck on one level. Below are suggested ways to use this resource, as well as other resources available to you, to determine students’ reading levels. Running records: While your class is doing independent work, pull your below-grade-level students aside one at a time. Have them individually read aloud the lowest level of a text (the star level) as you record any errors they make on your own copy of the text. Assess their accuracy and fluency, mark the words they say incorrectly, and listen for fluent reading. Use your judgment to determine whether students seem frustrated as they read. If students read accurately and fluently and comprehend the material, move them up to the next level and repeat the process. Following the reading, ask comprehension questions to assess their understanding of the material. As a general guideline, students reading below 90 percent accuracy are likely to feel frustrated as they read. A variety of other published reading assessment tools are available to assess students’ reading levels with the running-records format. Refer to other resources: Another way to determine instructional reading levels is to check your students’ Individualized Education Plans, ask the school’s language development specialists and/or special education teachers, or review test scores. All of these resources can provide the additional information needed to determine student reading levels.

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How to Use This Book

(cont.)

Distributing the Texts Some teachers wonder about how to distribute the different-leveled texts within the classroom. They worry that students will feel insulted or insecure if they do not get the same material as their neighbors. Prior to distributing the texts, make sure that the classroom environment is one in which all students learn at their individual instructional levels. It is important to make this clear. Otherwise, students may constantly ask why their work is different from another student’s work. Simply state that students will not be working on the same assignment every day and that their work may slightly vary to resolve students’ curiosity. In this approach, distribution of the texts can be very open and causal, just like passing out any other assignment. Teachers who would rather not have students aware of the differences in the texts can try the suggestions below: • Make a pile in your hands from star to triangle. Put your finger between the circle and square levels. As you approach each student, pull from the top (star), above your finger (circle), below your finger (square), or the bottom (triangle), depending on the student’s level. If you do not hesitate too much in front of each desk, students will probably not notice. • Begin the class period with an opening activity. Put the texts in different places around the room. As students work quietly, circulate and direct students to the right locations for retrieving the texts you want them to use. • Organize the texts in small piles by seating arrangement so that when you arrive at a group of desks, you will have only the levels you need.

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How to Use This Book

(cont.)

Components of the Product Each passage is derived from classic literary selections. Classics expose readers to cultural heritage or the literature of a culture. Classics improve understanding of the past and, in turn, understanding of the present. These selections from the past explain how we got to where we are today.

The Levels There are 15 passages in this book, each from a different work of classic fiction. Each passage is leveled to four different reading levels. The images and fonts used for each level within a work of fiction look the same. Behind each page number, you will see a shape. These shapes indicate the reading levels of each piece so that you can make sure students are working with the correct texts. The chart on the following page provides specific levels of each text.

1.5–2.2

3.0–3.5

5.0–5.5

6.5–7.2

Leveling Process The texts in this series are excerpts from classic pieces of literature. A reading specialist has reviewed each excerpt and leveled each one to create four distinct reading passages with unique levels.

Elements of Fiction Question Each text includes one comprehension question that directs the students to think about the chosen element of fiction for that passage. These questions are written at the appropriate reading level to allow all students to successfully participate in a whole‑class discussion. These questions are open-ended and designed to stimulate higher-order thinking.

Digital Resources The Digital Resources allow for easy access to all the reading passages in this book. Electronic PDF files as well as word files are included in the Digital Resources.

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How to Use This Book

(cont.)

ELL Level

Below Level

On level

Above level

1.5–2.2

3.0–3.5

5.0–5.5

6.5–7.2

Odin’s Eye

2.2

3.0

5.2

6.8

Perseus and Medusa

2.2

3.4

5.1

6.8

Theseus and the Minotaur

1.9

3.5

5.1

6.5

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race

2.2

3.5

5.2

6.6

Romulus and Remus

2.2

3.4

5.3

6.5

Paris and the Golden Apple

2.2

3.4

5.0

6.7

Perseus and the Gray Women

1.5

3.2

5.1

6.5

Cupid and Psyche

2.1

3.4

5.0

6.6

Echo and Narcissus

2.2

3.4

5.0

6.6

Midas and the Golden Touch

2.2

3.5

5.3

6.8

Orpheus and Eurydice

2.2

3.3

5.3

6.5

Persephone

2.0

3.5

5.5

6.9

The Trojan Horse

2.2

3.4

5.4

6.9

Sif’s Golden Hair

2.0

3.1

5.0

6.6

Thor and Elli

2.2

3.3

5.0

6.7

Title

Setting Passages

Character Passages

Plot Passages

Language Usage Passages

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Correlations to Standards Shell Education is committed to producing educational materials that are research and standards based. In this effort, we have correlated all our products to the academic standards of all 50 United States, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Dependent Schools, and all Canadian provinces.

How to Find Standards Correlations To print a customized correlations report of this product for your state, visit our website at http://www.shelleducation.com and follow the on-screen directions. If you require assistance in printing correlations reports, please contact Customer Service at 1-800-858-7339.

Purpose and Intent of Standards Legislation mandates that all states adopt academic standards that identify the skills students will learn in kindergarten through grade twelve. Many states also have standards for pre-K. This same legislation sets requirements to ensure the standards are detailed and comprehensive. Standards are designed to focus instruction and guide adoption of curricula. Standards are statements that describe the criteria necessary for students to meet specific academic goals. They define the knowledge, skills, and content students should acquire at each level. Standards are also used to develop standardized tests to evaluate students’ academic progress. Teachers are required to demonstrate how their lessons meet state standards. State standards are used in the development of all our products, so educators can be assured they meet the academic requirements of each state.

McREL Compendium We use the Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) Compendium to create standards correlations. Each year, McREL analyzes state standards and revises the compendium. By following this procedure, McREL is able to produce a general compilation of national standards. Each lesson in this product is based on one or more McREL standards. The chart on the following pages lists each standard taught in this product and the page numbers for the corresponding lessons.

TESOL Standards The lessons in this book promote English language development for English language learners. The standards listed on the following pages support the language objectives presented throughout the lessons.

Common Core State Standards The texts in this book are aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). The standards correlation can be found on pages 28–29.

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Correlations to Standards

(cont.)

Correlation to Common Core State Standards The passages in this book are aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Students who meet these standards develop the skills in reading that are the foundation for any creative and purposeful expression in language.

Grade(s)

Standard

3

RL.3.10—By the end of year, independently and proficiently read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry, at the high end of the grades 2–3 text-complexity band

4–5

RL.4.10–5.10—By the end of the year, proficiently read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry, in the grades 4–5 text-complexity band, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range

6–8

RL.6.10–8.10—By the end of the year, proficiently read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 6–8 textcomplexity band, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.

As outlined by the Common Core State Standards, teachers are “free to provide students with whatever tools and knowledge their professional judgment and experience identify as most helpful for meeting the goals set out in the standards.” Bearing this in mind, teachers are encouraged to use the recommendations indicated in the chart below in order to meet additional CCSS Reading Standards that require further instruction.

Standard RL.3.1–5.1— Key Ideas and Details

RL.3.2–5.2—

Additional Instruction • Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text. • Refer to details and examples in a text. • Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says.

Key Ideas and Details

• Recount stories to determine the central message, lesson, or moral and explain how it is conveyed. • Determine a theme of a story from details in the text.

RL.3.3–5.3—

• Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story.

Key Ideas and Details RL.6.1–8.1—

• Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says.

Key Ideas and Details RL.6.2–8.2— Key Ideas and Details

• Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text.

RL.6.3–8.3—

• Analyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact.

Key Ideas and Details

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Correlations to Standards

(cont.)

Correlation to Common Core State Standards (cont.) Additional Instruction (cont.)

Standard RL.3.4–8.4— Craft and Structure RL.3.5–5.5—

• Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text.

Craft and Structure

• Refer to parts of stories when writing or speaking about a text. • Explain the overall structure of a story.

RL.3.6–8.6—

• Distinguish and describe point of view within the story.

Craft and Structure RL.6.5–8.5— Craft and Structure RL.3.7–5.7— Integration of Knowledge and Ideas RL.3.9–8.9—

• Analyze and compare and contrast the overall structure of a story. • Explain how specific aspects of a text’s illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story. • Compare and contrast the themes, settings, and plots of stories.

Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

Correlation to McREL Standards Standard

Page(s)

5.1—Previews text (3–5)

all

5.1—Establishes and adjusts purposes for reading (6–8)

all

5.2—Establishes and adjusts purposes for reading (3–5)

all

5.3—Makes, confirms, and revises simple predictions about what will be found in a text (3–5)

all

5.3—Uses a variety of strategies to extend reading vocabulary (6–8)

all

5.4—Uses specific strategies to clear up confusing parts of a text (6–8)

all

5.5—Use a variety of context clues to decode unknown words (3–5)

all

5.5—Understands specific devices an author uses to accomplish his or her purpose (6–8)

all

5.6—Reflects on what has been learned after reading and formulates ideas, opinions, and personal responses to texts (6–8)

all

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Correlation to Standards

(cont.)

Correlation to McREL Standards (cont.) Standard

Page(s)

5.7—Understands level-appropriate reading vocabulary (3–5)

all

5.8—Monitors own reading strategies and makes modifications as needed (3–5)

all

5.10—Understands the author’s purpose or point of view (3–5)

all

6.1—Reads a variety of literary passages and texts (3–5, 6–8)

all

6.2—Knows the defining characteristics and structural elements of a variety of literary genres (3–5, 6–8)

all

6.3—Understands the basic concept of plot (3–5)

all

6.3—Understands complex elements of plot development (6–8)

all

6.4—Understands similarities and differences within and among literary works from various genres and cultures (3–5)

all

6.4—Understands elements of character development (6–8)

all

6.5—Understands elements of character development in literary works (3–5)

all

6.7—Understands the ways in which language is used in literary texts (3–5)

all

Correlation to TESOL Standards Standard

30

Page(s)

2.1—Students will use English to interact in the classroom

all

2.2—Students will use English to obtain, process, construct, and provide subject matter information in spoken and written form

all

2.3—Students will use appropriate learning strategies to construct and apply academic knowledge

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Odin’s Eye retold by Stephanie Paris Odin All-Father was the wisest of the Norse gods. But he was not satisfied. He wanted to learn more. So he dressed himself as a beggar. He wore gray rags and a tall, pointed hat. The god rode out on his great white horse, Sleipnir. He made a promise. He would not return until he was sure that he had learned all that he could learn. He rode across the world. He wandered from place to place. He watched all there was to see. Few people noticed him. Even fewer recognized him. His clothes hid who he was. So, he was able to get a clear picture of the world. There were no people trying to impress the greatest of the gods. In this way, he learned many things. Later, he would use this disguise again. He would use it to help him understand the world of men. This was long before wizards came to Earth. But when they did arrive, they wore clothes that made them look like Odin. Soon, Odin decided he had learned as much as he could in this way. He went to the ash tree Yggdrasil. It carries the nine worlds nestled in its branches. Nearby, he found three women weaving and spinning. These were the nornes. They are the makers of fate. They spin the fabric of the lives of men and gods. Of course they were not fooled by his clothes. The three recognized Odin at once. They greeted him warmly! But they worked as they talked. The god spoke long with the women. And they told him many things. They told him of the past. They spoke of the present. And they told him the distant future. Odin learned all that he could from them. But, he still wanted more. The nornes sent him off to see the giant Mimir, the Rememberer. Long had Odin tried to drink from Mimir’s magical well. But the giant had always refused him. Mimir knew that one day there would be trouble between his people and Odin’s. He knew that if he gave Odin an advantage, it would not be good for the giants.

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But, Odin’s will was steel. They exchanged greetings. Then the god said, “Name your price and I shall pay it.” “The price is high,” replied the wily giant. “If you would drink from my well, you must give me your wisdom in return. You must leave me one of your all-seeing eyes.” This price was high! Odin took a moment to think. “My eyes can see the Heavens and Earth,” he said. “But they cannot look into the seas. Your well will give me the wisdom of the deep. I will pay your price.” With that, the grey god knelt at the well. He drank his fill. Then as he turned to leave, he plucked out his eye. He tossed it into the well. When Mimir drank the water, he shared all of Odin’s wisdom. Thus, the balance was kept the same. But Odin’s journey was not yet done. Suddenly, he was grabbed up into the branches of Yggdrasil! The tree held him tight. He was whipped this way and that. He hung between the Heavens and Earth. He was able to go neither up nor down. As he thrashed, he was poked with his own spear. Poor Sleipnir could do nothing. The horse paced below the tree. He whinnied in alarm. For nine days and nine nights, Odin struggled with himself! He had neither food nor drink. His body wasted away. But his inner self grew brighter. In the end, Odin began to understand the secret of the runes! He reached out with his sword. He cut 18 magical symbols into the tree. Then, exhausted, he fell to the ground. Gathering the runes to take with him, he returned to Asgard. Now he was content that his mission had finally been a success. And thus it was that Odin All-Father became the wisest of the wise. And he earned the gift of written language for his people.

Element Focus: Setting Why do you think the author selected this version of the world?

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Odin’s Eye retold by Stephanie Paris Odin All-Father was the wisest of the Norse gods. But he was still dissatisfied. He wanted to learn more. So he dressed himself as a beggar in gray rags and a tall, pointed hat. The god rode out on his great white steed, Sleipnir. He vowed not to return until he was content that he had learned all that he could learn. He rode across the world. He wandered from place to place, watching all there was to see. Dressed as he was, few noticed him. Even fewer recognized him. Thus, he was able to get a clear picture of the world. There were no people trying to impress the greatest of the gods. In this way, he learned much that he had not known. Later, he would use this disguise often to seek a truer understanding of the world of men. This was long before wizards roamed the mortal world. But it is said that when they did arrive, they wore clothes that made them look like Odin. Soon, Odin decided he had learned as much as he could from his disguise. He traveled on. He journeyed to the ash tree Yggdrasil, which carries the nine worlds nestled in its branches. On a hillside nearby, he found three women weaving and spinning. These were the nornes, the makers of fate. They spin the fabric of the lives of men and gods alike. Of course, they were not fooled by his clothes. The three recognized Odin at once. They greeted him warmly. But they worked as they talked. The god spoke long with the women. And they willingly revealed many things to him. They told him of the past, the present, and the distant future. But when he had learned all that he could from them, he still craved more. The nornes sent him off to see the giant Mimir, the Rememberer. Long had Odin sought to drink from Mimir’s magical well. And yet the giant had always refused him. For Mimir knew that one day there would come a rift between his people and Odin’s. He realized that if he gave an advantage to the god, things would not go so well for the giants in the end.

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But Odin’s will was steel. On this day, after greetings had been exchanged, the god said, “Name your price, and I shall pay it.” “The price is high,” replied the wily giant. “If you would drink from my well, you must grant me your wisdom in return to maintain the balance between us. You must leave me one of your all-seeing eyes.” This price was high indeed. It took Odin a moment to think. “My eyes can see the Heavens and Earth,” he said. “But they cannot peer into the seas. Your well will give me the wisdom of the depths. I agree to your price.” With that, the grizzled god knelt at the well and drank his fill. Then as he turned to leave, he plucked out his eye. He tossed it into the well. When Mimir drank the water, he shared all of Odin’s wisdom. Thus, the balance was maintained. But Odin’s journey was not yet done. Suddenly, he was grabbed up into the branches of Yggdrasil! The tree’s tendrils held him fast. He was whipped this way and that. He hung between the Heavens and Earth, able to go neither up nor down. As he thrashed, he was poked with his own spear. Poor Sleipnir could do nothing. The horse paced below the tree and whinnied in alarm. For nine days and nine nights, Odin struggled with himself! He had neither food nor drink to nourish him. So the god’s body wasted away. But his inner self grew brighter with each passing moment. In the end, Odin began to understand the secret of the runes! He reached out with his sword and cut 18 magical symbols into the tree. Then, exhausted, he fell to the ground. Gathering the runes to take with him, he returned to Asgard. Now he was content that his mission had finally been a success. And thus it was that Odin All-Father became the wisest of the wise. And he earned the gift of written language for his people.

Element Focus: Setting What setting would make the story more exciting? Explain.

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© Shell Education

Odin’s Eye retold by Stephanie Paris Odin All-Father, wisest of the Norse gods, was still dissatisfied with the wisdom he had obtained. Intent on learning more, he dressed himself as a beggar in gray rags and a tall, pointed hat. Odin rode out on his great white steed, Sleipnir, vowing not to return until he was content that he had learned all that he could learn. He rode across the world, wandering here and there, observing all there was to see. Dressed as he was, few noticed him, and fewer recognized him. In this way, he was able to get a clear picture of the world without the complication of people trying to impress the greatest of the gods. Indeed, he learned much that he had not previously known. And later, he would use this disguise often to seek a truer understanding of the world of men. This was long before wizards roamed the mortal world. But when they did arrive, they fashioned their attire to look like Odin’s. Soon, the wise god decided he had gleaned as much as he could from his disguise. He journeyed to the great ash tree Yggdrasil, which carries the nine worlds nestled in its branches. On a hillside nearby, he found three women weaving and spinning. These were the nornes, the makers of fate, who spin the fabric of the lives of men and gods alike. Of course they were not fooled by his attire and recognized Odin at once, greeting him warmly, but continuing their work as they talked. The god spoke long with the three women, and they willingly revealed many things to him. They revealed to him the past, the present, and the distant future of all living things. But even when he had learned all that he could from them, he still craved more. The nornes sent him off to see the giant Mimir, the Rememberer. Long had Odin sought to drink from Mimir’s magical well, but the giant had always refused him. Mimir knew that one day there would come a rift between his people and Odin’s. If he should give an advantage to the god, things would not go so well for the giants in the end.

© Shell Education

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On this occasion, however, Odin’s will was steel. After greetings had been exchanged, the god said simply, “Name your price, and I shall pay it.” “The price is high,” replied the wily giant. “If you would drink from my well, you must grant me your own wisdom in return to maintain the balance between us. You must leave me one of your all-seeing eyes.” This price was high indeed, and it took Odin a moment to absorb it. “My eyes can see the Heavens and Earth,” he said, “but they cannot peer into the seas. Your well will give me the wisdom of the depths. I agree to your price.” With that, the grizzled god knelt at the well and drank his fill. Then as he turned to leave, he plucked out his eye and tossed it into the well. When Mimir drank the water, he shared all of Odin’s wisdom. Thus, the balance was maintained. But Odin’s journey was not yet complete. As he began his travels home, he was suddenly grabbed up into the branches of Yggdrasil! The tree’s tendrils held him fast. He was whipped this way and that, suspended between the Heavens and Earth. He was unable to either progress up to the sky or return to the firm ground. As he thrashed, he was poked many times with his own spear. Poor Sleipnir could do nothing other than pace below the tree and whinny in alarm! For nine days and nine nights, Odin struggled with himself. With neither food nor drink to nourish him, the god’s body wasted away. But his inner self grew brighter with each passing moment. In the end, Odin began to understand the secret of the runes! He reached out with his sword and cut 18 magical symbols into the tree. Then, exhausted, he fell to the ground. Gathering the runes to take with him, he returned to Asgard, content that his mission had finally been a success. And thus it was that Odin All-Father became the wisest of the wise and earned the gift of written language for his people.

Element Focus: Setting Explain why the characters fit well in this setting.

36

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Odin’s Eye retold by Stephanie Paris Odin All-Father, wisest of the Norse gods, remained dissatisfied with the wisdom he had accumulated in his long life. Intent on learning more, he dressed himself as a beggar in gray rags and a tall, pointed hat, his long gray beard flowing over his robes. Odin rode out from Asgard on Sleipnir, his great white steed, vowing not to return until he had contented himself that he had learned all that he was able to learn. He rode across the world, wandering here and there, observing all there was to see. Dressed as he was, few mortals noticed him, and fewer recognized him. In this way, he was able to get a clear picture of the world without the complication of people trying to impress the greatest of the gods. Indeed, he was impressed by how successful his disguise was in allowing him to slip in and out of the world of humans. Later, he often returned to this costume to seek a truer understanding of the world of men. All of this was long before wizards roamed the mortal world. But when they did arrive, the wise ones fashioned their attire to look like that of Odin. Soon, the All-Father decided he had gleaned as much as he could from this approach, so he journeyed to the great ash tree Yggdrasil, which carries the nine worlds nestled in its branches. On a hillside nearby, he found three women weaving and spinning. These were the nornes, the makers of fate, who spin the fabric of the lives of men and gods alike. Of course the women were not fooled by Odin’s attire and recognized the god at once, greeting him warmly, but continuing their work as they talked. The god spoke long with the three women, and they willingly revealed many things to him. They lifted the fog on the past, the present, and the distant future of all living things. But even when he had learned everything that he could from the nornes, he still craved more. The three sent Odin to visit the ancient giant Mimir, the Rememberer. Long had Odin sought to drink from Mimir’s magical well, but the giant had always refused him. Mimir knew that one day there would come a rift between his people and Odin’s. Should Mirmir provide an advantage to the god, things would be considerably more difficult for the giants in the end. © Shell Education

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On this occasion, however, Odin’s will was steel. After greetings had been exchanged, the god said simply, “Name your price, and I shall pay it.” “The price, I am afraid, is exceptionally high,” replied the wily giant. “If you would drink from my well, you must grant me your own wisdom in return to maintain the balance between us. You must leave me one of your all-seeing eyes.” This price was high indeed, and it took Odin a moment to absorb it. “My eyes can see the Heavens and Earth,” he said, “but they cannot peer into the seas. Because your well will give me the wisdom of the depths, I agree to your price.” With that, the grizzled god knelt at the well and drank his fill. Then as he turned to leave, he plucked out his eye and tossed it into the well. When Mimir drank the water, he shared all of Odin’s wisdom, and the balance was restored. But Odin’s journey had a final, unexpected stop. As he began his travels home, the gray god was suddenly grabbed up into the branches of Yggdrasil! The tree’s tendrils held him fast, whipping him this way and that, suspending his body between the Heavens and Earth. Odin All-Father was unable to either progress up to the sky or return to the firm ground. As he thrashed, the god was impaled many times with his own spear! Meanwhile, poor Sleipnir could do nothing other than pace below the tree and whinny in alarm. For nine days and nine nights, Odin struggled with himself. With neither food nor drink to nourish him, the god’s body wasted away, but his inner self grew brighter with each passing moment. In the end, Odin began to understand the secret of the runes! He reached out with his sword and cut 18 magical symbols into the tree. Then, he collapsed to the ground. Gathering the runes to take with him, he returned to Asgard, content that his mission had finally been a success. And thus it was that Odin All-Father became the wisest of the wise and earned the gift of written language for his people.

Element Focus: Setting Why do you think the setting is important to the story?

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© Shell Education

Perseus and Medusa retold by Stephanie Paris The cave was dark. The air was still. The sour smell of rotted meat choked him. He did not want to breathe. But he did breathe. He breathed quickly! Perseus was afraid. Yes, the great Perseus of so many tales was just a man. Fear made his heart beat fast. And fear made him sweat. Still, he moved forward. He had made a promise. And he had come this far. He would not leave before the job was done. The magical gifts helped. There was strength in them. The helm made him invisible. And the adamantine sword was as hard as diamonds. The winged sandals had done half their job. They had carried him this far. He prayed to Athena. He hoped the sandals would be useful once more. He prayed they would let him flee this cursed cave. Ah! Athena! His patron goddess had been generous. He could feel her help. Even now, he knew she watched as he moved through the dark. There! Ahead of him, he could see their reflection. He watched in his mirrored shield. The three gorgons slept. Two were immortal. He could not kill them. But it was not their heads he needed. He had promised Polydictes that he would bring the head of Medusa. And now he was close to his goal. Step by step he snuck. His breath was shallow. It fogged the inside of his helm. He could not look at the gorgons with his bare eyes. Meeting a gorgon’s gaze turns any man to stone! In the cave, Perseus had seen stone men. Some might think these were statues. But he knew better. These were all that was left of men. They had been dozens of brave warriors. Each had come to try to do what Perseus was doing now. Perseus forced this thought from his mind. He forced the fear away, too. He must think of the task at hand. He watched the reflection of his shield. Now he saw his target. The three gorgons were together. But Medusa was resting in the center. In one swift move Perseus slashed down with great force. He cut her monstrous head from her womanly body. Quickly, he grabbed up the head. He did not dare to touch the nest of snakes that formed her hair. He stuffed the awful thing into his sack. Then he turned and raced from the cave.

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As he fled, two things happened. First, from Medusa’s blood sprang forth a winged horse! This was Pegasus. His adventures would be told at a later time. Second, the two immortal sisters awakened! They became aware that Medusa was dead. Enraged, the serpent-beasts lashed out in all directions. They could not see Perseus. But they could smell his sweat. They could hear the hiss of the wind as he leaped toward the tunnel entrance. He silently willed the winged sandals to take flight. The chase was brief. But it was frightening. Perseus darted out of the cave! He dodged the wailing gorgons. His helm of invisibility hid him from sight. His swift winged sandals let him fly above where the monsters could reach. Now the young hero traveled back to the court of the evil Polydictes. This is where Perseus’s mother, Danae, was still captive. His mother was not in the room. So, Perseus strode triumphantly to the center. He clenched his eyes shut. Then holding the lifeless head high, he shouted, “Look, Polydictes! I have brought you your prize!” Polydictes and all his men looked up at Medusa’s head. There was not even time to realize their mistake. The entire wicked court was turned to stone! And so, the story of the hero Perseus and the monster Medusa came to a close. Perseus’s mother, Danae, was made queen. Her true love, Dictys, was declared the new king. In thanks for all her assistance, Perseus gave Medusa’s head to Athena. The goddess placed the vile thing on the front of her own shield. Woe be to those who found themselves in battle with Athena from that day forward! And what happened to Perseus himself? He was fated to live a long and adventurous life. Eventually, he found his own kingdom. He met his own true love, Andromeda. And together they raised seven sons. One of these was the great hero Heracles. But those are tales for another day.

Element Focus: Setting In what way was the cave a good setting for a heroic tale?

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© Shell Education

Perseus and Medusa retold by Stephanie Paris The cave was dark and still. The sour stench of long-rotted meat choked his throat. He did not want to breathe. But he did breathe. He breathed quickly! Perseus was afraid. Yes, the great Perseus of so many tales was just a mortal man. Fear quickened his heart. And fear brought sweat to his brow. Still, forward he crept. He had made a promise. And he had come this far. He would not leave before the job was done. The magical gifts were a comfort. There was strength in them. The helm, he knew, made him invisible. And the adamantine sword was as hard and sharp as diamonds. The winged sandals had already done half their job. They had carried him this far. He prayed to Athena that they would be useful once more. He prayed they would let him flee this cursed cave. Ah! Athena! His patron goddess had been generous. He could sense her guiding hand. Even now, he knew she helped as he quietly crept through the darkness. There! Ahead of him just at the turn, he could see their reflection in his mirrored shield. The three gorgons slept. Two were immortal. He could not kill them. But it was not their heads he was after. He had promised Polydictes that he would bring the head of Medusa. And now he was close to his goal. Step by step, Perseus crept forward. His shallow breaths fogged the face plate of his helm. He dared not look at the gorgons with his own eyes. One glance would hold disaster! For meeting a gorgon’s gaze turns any mortal man to stone! In the cave, Perseus had already seen stone soldiers. Some might think these were fine statues. But Perseus knew better. These were the remains of dozens of brave warriors. Each had come to try to do what Perseus was doing now. Perseus forced this thought and the cold fear from his mind. He must focus on the task at hand. In the reflection of his shield, the hero now saw his target. The three gorgons were intertwined. But Medusa, the mortal sister, was resting in the center. In one swift movement, Perseus slashed downward with great force. He cut her monstrous head from her womanly body. Quickly, he grabbed up the head. He did not dare to touch the nest of still-wriggling snakes that formed her hair. He thrust the awful thing into his sack. Then he turned and raced from the cave.

© Shell Education

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As he fled, two things happened in quick order. First, from the blood flowing from Medusa’s severed neck sprang forth a glorious winged horse! This was Pegasus, whose own adventures would be told at a later time. Second, the two immortal sisters awakened! They became acutely aware of what had just befallen their decapitated sibling. Enraged, the serpent-beasts lashed out dangerously in all directions. They could not see Perseus. But they could smell his sweat. They could hear the hiss of the wind as he leaped toward the tunnel entrance. He silently willed the winged sandals to take flight. The chase was brief but frightening. Perseus darted out of the cave! He dodged the wailing gorgons. His helm of invisibility and swift winged sandals made all the difference in his escape. Now the young hero traveled back to the court of the evil Polydictes. This is where Perseus’s mother, Danae, was still captive. Noting that his mother was not in the room, Perseus strode triumphantly to the center. He clenched his eyes shut. Then holding the lifeless head high, he declared, “Look, Polydictes! I have brought you the prize that you demanded! Now, be satisfied!” Polydictes and all his supporters looked up at Medusa’s head. There was not even time to realize their mistake. The entire wicked court was turned to stone! And so, the story of the hero Perseus and the monster Medusa came to a satisfying end. Perseus’s mother Danae was made queen. Her true love, Dictys, was declared the new king. In thanks for all her assistance, Perseus gave Medusa’s head to Athena. The goddess placed the vile object on the front of her own shield. Woe be to those who found themselves in battle with Athena from that day forward! As for Perseus himself, he was destined to live a long and adventurous life. Eventually, he found his own kingdom and his own true love, Andromeda. Together they raised seven sons, including the great hero Heracles. But those are tales for another day.

Element Focus: Setting Explain why the characters fit well in this setting.

42

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Perseus and Medusa retold by Stephanie Paris The cave was dark and still. The fetid stench of long-rotted meat twined about his throat, stifling his desire to breathe. But breathe he did, and quickly, too. Perseus was terrified. Yes, the great Perseus of so many tales was just a mortal man. Fear quickened his heart. And fear caused perspiration to spring to his brow. Still, despite his terror, forward he crept. He had made a promise. And he had come this far. He would not leave before the job was done. The magical gifts were a comfort. The helm, he knew, made him invisible, and the adamantine sword was as hard and sharp as diamonds. The winged sandals had already done half their job in allowing him to get this far. He prayed to Athena that they would be useful once more and allow him to flee this cursed cave. Ah, Athena! His patron goddess had been generous. She had provided him with gifts and insight. He could sense her guiding hand as she helped him slip through the darkness. There! Ahead of him just at the turn, he could see their reflection in his mirrored shield. The three gorgons slept. Two were immortal. He had no hope of slaying them. But it was not their heads he was after. He had promised Polydictes that he would bring the head of Medusa. He was approaching his goal. Step by step, Perseus inched forward, his shallow breaths fogging the inside of his helm. He dared not look at the gorgons. One glance would hold disaster! Meeting a gorgon’s gaze will turn any mortal man to stone. In the cave, Perseus had already encountered stone soldiers. Some might guess they were finely crafted statues, but Perseus knew better. These were the petrified remains of dozens of brave warriors. Each had come to attempt the same deed that Perseus was attempting now. Perseus forced this thought and the cold fear that accompanied it from his mind. He must focus all his energy on the task at hand. In the reflection of his shield, the hero now identified his target. The three gorgons were intertwined, but Medusa, the mortal sister, was resting in the center. In one swift movement, Perseus slashed downward with great force! He severed her monstrous head from her womanly body. Quickly, he grabbed up the head. He dared not to touch the nest of still-wriggling serpents that formed the creature’s hair. He thrust the ghastly orb into his sack. Then he turned to race from the cave.

© Shell Education

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As he fled, two things happened in quick succession. First, from the blood flowing from Medusa’s severed neck sprang forth a glorious winged horse! This was the great Pegasus, whose own adventures would contribute to many a heroic tale in the future. Second, the two immortal twins awakened! They instantly became acutely aware of what had befallen their decapitated sibling. Enraged, the serpent-beasts lashed out dangerously in all directions. They could not see Perseus, but they could smell his sweat and hear the hiss of the wind as he leaped toward the tunnel entrance. He silently willed the winged sandals to take flight. The chase was brief but harrowing. Perseus darted out of the cave and evaded the wailing gorgons, his helm of invisibility and swift winged sandals making all the difference in his escape. Now the young hero traveled back to the court of the evil Polydictes. There, Perseus’s mother, Danae, was still captive. Noting that his mother was not in the room, Perseus strode triumphantly to the center of the chamber. Clenching his eyes shut and holding the lifeless head aloft, he loudly announced, “Look, Polydictes, I have brought you the prize that you demanded! Attend me now, and be satisfied!” Polydictes and all his supporters looked up at Medusa’s head. There was not even time to realize their mistake. The entire court was turned to stone! And so, the story of the hero Perseus and the monster Medusa came to a satisfying conclusion. In place of Polydictes, Perseus’s mother, Danae, was made queen, and her true love, Dictys, was declared the new king. In thanks for all her assistance, Perseus gave Medusa’s head to Athena. The goddess affixed the vile object to the front of her own shield. Woe be to any mortals who found themselves in battle with Athena from that day forward! As for Perseus himself, he was destined to live a long and adventurous life. Eventually, he found his own kingdom and his own true love, the princess Andromeda. Together they raised seven sons, including the great hero Heracles. But those are tales for another day.

Element Focus: Setting What new element would you add to the cave to make the setting better?

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© Shell Education

Perseus and Medusa retold by Stephanie Paris The cave was dark and still. The fetid stench of long-rotted meat twined about his throat, stifling his desire to breathe. But breathe he did, and quickly, too. Perseus was terrified. Yes, the great Perseus, of whom so many tales have been told, was yet a mortal man, so fear quickened his heart and caused perspiration to spring to his brow. Still, despite his terror, forward he crept. He had made a promise, and he had come this far. He had no intention of leaving before the job was done. Perseus derived comfort and strength from the magical gifts that he carried. The helm, he knew, made him invisible, and the adamantine sword was as hard and sharp as diamonds, while the winged sandals had already done half their job in allowing him to get this far. He prayed to Athena that they would be useful once more in allowing him to flee this cursed cave. Ah, praise be to Athena! His patron goddess had been generous, providing him with gifts and insight. He could sense her guiding hand even now as he quietly crept through the cavernous darkness. There, just ahead of him, he could see their reflection in his mirrored shield. The three gorgons slept. Two were immortal, so he had no hope of slaying them. But it was not their heads he was after. He had promised Polydictes that he would bring the head of Medusa, and now he was approaching his goal. Step by step, Perseus inched forward, his shallow breaths fogging the inside of his helm. He dared not look at the gorgons, for one glance would hold disaster. Meeting a gorgon’s gaze will turn any mortal man to stone. In the cave, Perseus had already encountered stone soldiers. An uninformed person might think they were finely crafted statues, but Perseus knew better. These were the petrified remains of dozens of brave warriors who had come to attempt the same deed that Perseus was attempting now. Perseus forced this thought and the cold fear that accompanied it from his mind. He must focus all his energy on the task at hand. In the reflection of his shield, he identified his target. The three gorgons were intertwined, but Medusa, the mortal sister, was resting in the center slightly forward from the others. In one swift movement, Perseus slashed downward with great force and cut her monstrous head from her womanly body. Quickly, he grabbed the head, daring not to touch the nest of still-wriggling serpents that formed the hair. He thrust the ghastly orb into his sack and then turned to race from the cave. © Shell Education

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As he fled, two things happened in quick succession. First, from the blood flowing from Medusa’s severed neck sprang forth a glorious winged horse! This was the great Pegasus, whose own adventures would contribute to many a heroic tale in the future. Second, the two immortal twins awakened and became acutely aware of what had befallen their decapitated sibling. Enraged, the serpent-beasts lashed out dangerously in all directions. They could not see Perseus, but they could smell his sweat and hear the hiss of the wind as he leaped toward the tunnel entrance. He silently willed the winged sandals to take flight. The chase was brief but harrowing. Perseus darted out of the cave and evaded the wailing gorgons, his helm of invisibility and swift winged sandals making all the difference in his escape. Now the young hero traveled back to the court of the evil Polydictes, where Perseus’s mother, Danae, was still captive. Noting that his mother was not in the room, Perseus strode triumphantly to the center of the chamber. Clenching his eyes shut and holding the lifeless head aloft, he loudly announced, “Look, Polydictes, I have brought you the prize that you demanded! Attend me now, and be satisfied!” Polydictes and all his supporters looked up at Medusa’s head. There was not even time to realize their mistake before the entire wicked court was turned to stone! And so, the story of the hero Perseus and the monster Medusa came to a satisfying conclusion. In place of Polydictes, Perseus’s mother Danae was made queen, and her true love, Dictys, was declared the new king. In thanks for all her assistance, Perseus gave Medusa’s head to Athena. The goddess affixed the vile object to the front of her own shield. Woe be to any mortals who found themselves in battle with Athena from that day forward! As for Perseus himself, he was destined to live a long and adventurous life. Eventually, he found his own kingdom and his own true love, the princess Andromeda. Together they raised seven sons, including the great hero Heracles. But those are tales for another day.

Element Focus: Setting In what ways did the setting help build suspense in the story?

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© Shell Education

Theseus and the Minotaur retold by Stephanie Paris

In ancient times, there was a city called Crete. It went to war with Athens. Crete won. As tribute after the war, every nine years, Athens had to send seven young men and seven young women to Crete on a boat. They were to be sacrificed to the Minotaur. The Minotaur was half bull and half man. He was kept in a maze under the city. He was the guardian of Crete. But he was bloodthirsty. Crete did not wish to feed him with its own children. So they used Athenian blood instead! “Father,” said Theseus, the prince of Athens, “soon you will send the sacrifices to Crete for the Minotaur. I will be one of them.” “No, my son! I could not bear to lose you!” cried the frightened king. But Theseus was sure. He told his father, “Fear not, I shall not be away for long. I will kill the Minotaur! I will put an end to this terrible outrage for all time!” The king was still afraid. But he saw that Theseus had his mind made up. The 14 Athenians went to Crete with Prince Theseus among them. The Cretan king also had a child. Her name was Ariadne. She was both smart and kind. She hated the Minotaur! She did not wish to have anything to do with a city that would keep such an awful monster! Ariadne saw Theseus with the youths. She thought up a clever plan. “Psst, come with me!” she whispered. They were not being watched. Ariadne pulled Theseus away from the group. Quickly, she told him what she had in mind. “I can help you to kill the Minotaur,” she said. “But, you must promise to take me with you when you leave!” Theseus agreed. Ariadne handed him a spool of thread, a candle, and his sword. Then she led him to the maze. “Tie the end of the string to the door. That way, you will be able to find your way out,” she told him softly. “Use the candle to light your way. Go always downward. Do not turn left or right. It is still daylight. The creature will be sleeping. You can catch him in his room. He will not have the advantage. You will be able to defeat him! Good luck!”

© Shell Education

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Down into the dark maze went Theseus. He strayed neither left nor right. He followed always the path that led down. He moved toward the center of the maze. The walls and floor were cut into solid rock. Hall after hall led in every direction. But Theseus kept to his goal. The air grew cooler. He began to hear the drip of water. It echoed in the tunnels. Every once in a while he would hear a sound of something moving. These were the sounds of small animals that lived in the maze. Once or twice he nearly tripped over bones. They had been left scattered in the passages. Theseus shuddered. But he kept going. Time passed. Then the prince felt that he was coming close to the monster. It smelled like sweat. It smelled like damp fur. But all was quiet. There was a door that was half open. He crept around it. There was the creature. It was huge! Fur lined its body. Deadly horns topped its head. The prince pushed into the room. He was ready to pounce. It awoke! It leapt up onto its powerful human legs! The beast stood eight feet tall! Theseus swung his sword. But he was blocked! The Minotaur had a weapon, too. The monster roared. Then it attacked! The two of them struggled. Theseus was forced back into unknown rooms. He was afraid he might lose his way. But he held on to the string Ariadne had given him. He knew where he was. Up and down they fought! But in the end, Theseus won. He cut the head from the beast. Then he followed the string back to where Ariadne was waiting. Theseus was surprised to find that the princess had gathered all the Athenian youths! She also had her sister with her. Theseus took the helm of their ship. They escaped back to Athens. Ariadne and Theseus were married. And Crete never again needed sacrifices.

Element Focus: Setting How is the setting important to the story?

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© Shell Education

Theseus and the Minotaur retold by Stephanie Paris

In ancient times, Crete went to war with Athens. Crete won. As tribute after the war, every nine years Athens had to send seven young men and seven young women to Crete on a boat. These youths were to be sacrificed to the Minotaur. Half bull and half man, the fearsome Minotaur was kept in a labyrinth. He was the guardian of Crete. But he was a bloodthirsty guardian. Crete did not wish to feed him with its own children. So they used Athenian blood instead! “Father,” declared Theseus, the prince of Athens, “when you next send the sacrifices to Crete for the Minotaur, I shall be among them.” “No, my son! I could not bear to lose you!” cried the frightened king. But Theseus was determined. He reassured his father, saying, “Fear not, I shall not be away for long. I will kill the Minotaur! I will put an end to this outrage for all time!” The king was still afraid. He saw that Theseus could not be dissuaded. And so it was that the 14 sacrificial Athenians arrived in Crete with Prince Theseus. The Cretan king also had a child. Her name was Ariadne. She was known for being both intelligent and kind. She hated the horrors of the Minotaur! She did not wish to have anything to do with a city that would keep such a monster! Ariadne saw Theseus with the youths. She began to think up a plan. “Psst, come with me!” she whispered. They were not being observed. Ariadne pulled Theseus away from the group. Quickly, she told him what she had in mind. “I can help you to defeat the Minotaur,” she said. “But if I do, you must promise to take me with you when you leave!” Theseus agreed. Ariadne handed him a spool of thread, a candle, and his sword. Then she led him to the entrance of the maze. “Tie the end of the string to the door so you will be able to find your way out,” she told him softly. “Use the candle to light your way. Go always downward, turning neither left nor right as you walk. It is still daylight, so the creature will be sleeping. If you can catch him in his room, he will not have the advantage. You will be able to defeat him! Good luck!” © Shell Education

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Down into the Minotaur’s dark lair went Theseus. He strayed neither left nor right. He followed always the path that led down toward the center of the maze. The walls and floor were cut into solid rock. Hall after hall led in every direction. But Theseus kept to his goal. The air grew cooler. He began to hear the drip of water echoing in the tunnels. Every once in a while he would hear a skitter or scrape. These were the sounds of small animals that lived in the maze. Once or twice he nearly tripped over bones that had been left scattered in the passages. Theseus shuddered. But he kept going. After a great while, the prince felt that he was coming close to the monster. It smelled like sweat and damp fur. But all was quiet. Finally, he came upon a door that was half open. Creeping around it, he saw the creature. It was huge! Great tufts of fur lined its shoulders and body. Deadly horns topped its shaggy head. He pushed into the room, ready to pounce. It awoke! Leaping up onto its powerful human legs, the beast stood eight feet tall! Undaunted, Theseus swung his sword. But he was blocked by the Minotaur’s own weapon. The monster gave forth a deep bellow. Then it attacked! The two combatants struggled mightily. Forced to retreat into unknown chambers, Theseus feared that he might lose his way. But he held fast to the string Ariadne had given him and managed to keep his bearings. Up and down they fought, but in the end, Theseus prevailed. He cut the head from the beast and then followed the string back to where Ariadne stood waiting. When he arrived, Theseus was surprised to find that the princess had gathered all the Athenian youths as well as her own younger sister. With Theseus at the helm, the triumphant group made their escape back to Athens by ship. Ariadne and Theseus were married. And Crete never again needed sacrifices to feed its bloodthirsty guardian!

Element Focus: Setting Describe the Minotaur’s labyrinth. If you were to create a home for such a beast, how might you do it differently?

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© Shell Education

Theseus and the Minotaur retold by Stephanie Paris

In ancient times, the city-state of Crete had gone to war with the city-state of Athens, and Crete had won. As tribute after the war, every nine years Athens was required to send seven young men and seven young women on a somber boat. These youths were to be sacrificed to the Minotaur. Half bull and half man, the fearsome Minotaur was kept in an intricate labyrinth as a guardian of Crete. But he was a bloodthirsty guardian. Crete did not wish to feed him with its own children, so they used Athenian blood instead! “Father,” declared Theseus, the prince of Athens, “when you next send the sacrifices to Crete for the Minotaur, I shall be among them.” “No, my son! I could not bear to lose you!” cried the frightened king. But Theseus was determined. He reassured his father, “Fear not, I shall not be taken from you for long. I intend to slay the Minotaur and put an end to this outrage!” The king was still afraid, but he saw that Theseus could not be dissuaded. And so it was that the 14 sacrificial Athenians arrived in Crete with Prince Theseus. The Cretan king also had a child. Her name was Ariadne, and she was known for being both intelligent and kind. She despised the horrors of the Minotaur and did not wish to have anything to do with a city that would keep such a monster! When Ariadne saw Theseus among the youths, she came up with a plan. “Psst, come with me!” she whispered in a moment when they were not being observed. Ariadne pulled Theseus away from the group and quickly told him what she had in mind. “I can help you to defeat the Minotaur, but if I do, you must promise to take me with you when you leave!” Theseus agreed. Ariadne handed him a spool of thread, a candle, and his sword. She led him to the entrance of the labyrinth. “Tie the end of the string to the door so you will be able to find your way out,” she told him softly. “Use the candle to light your way. Go downward, turning neither left nor right as you travel. It is still daylight, so the creature will be sleeping. Catch him in his chamber. He will not have the advantage, and you will defeat him! Good luck!” © Shell Education

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Down into the Minotaur’s dark lair went Theseus. He strayed neither left nor right. He followed always the path that led down toward the center of the maze. The walls and floor were cut into solid rock. Passage after passage led in every direction, but Theseus kept to his purpose. The air grew cooler, and he began to hear the drip of water echoing in the tunnels. Every once in a while he would hear the skitter or scrape of some small animal that had taken refuge in the maze. Once or twice he nearly tripped over bones that had been left scattered in the passages. Theseus shuddered but continued on. After a great while, Theseus began to sense that he was coming close to the monster. It smelled like sweat and damp fur. But all was quiet. Finally, the prince came upon a door that was half ajar. Creeping around it, he spied the creature. It was massive! Great tufts of fur lined its shoulders and torso. Deadly horns topped its shaggy head. As he pushed into the room, ready to pounce, it suddenly awoke! Leaping up onto its powerful human legs, the beast stood eight feet tall! Undaunted, Theseus swung his sword, only to be blocked by the Minotaur’s own weapon. The monster gave forth a deep bellow and attacked! The two combatants struggled mightily. Forced to retreat into unknown chambers, Theseus feared that he might lose his way, but he held fast to the string Ariadne had given him and managed to keep his bearings. Up and down they fought, but in the end, Theseus prevailed. He cut the head from the beast and then followed the string back to where Ariadne stood waiting. When he arrived, Theseus was surprised to find that the princess had gathered all the Athenian youths as well as her own younger sister. With Theseus at the helm, the triumphant group made their escape back to Athens by ship. Ariadne and Theseus were married. And of course, Crete never again needed sacrifices to feed its bloodthirsty guardian!

Element Focus: Setting Why do you think this setting was selected?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Theseus and the Minotaur retold by Stephanie Paris

In ancient times, the city-state of Crete had vanquished the city-state of Athens in a great war. As tribute after their defeat, every nine years Athens was required to send seven young men and seven young women on a somber boat trip into Crete. These youths were to be sacrificed to the vicious Minotaur. Half bull and half man, the fearsome Minotaur was kept in an intricate labyrinth as a guardian of Crete, but he was a bloodthirsty guardian. Crete did not wish to feed him with its own children, so they used Athenian blood instead! “Father,” declared Theseus, the prince of Athens, “when you next send the sacrifices to Crete for the Minotaur, I shall be among them.” “No, my son, I could not bear to lose you!” cried the frightened king. But Theseus was determined, and he reassured his father, “Fear not, I shall not be taken from you for long. I intend to slay the Minotaur and put an end to this outrage!” The king was still afraid, but he recognized that Theseus could not be dissuaded. And so it was that the 14 sacrificial Athenians arrived in Crete with Prince Theseus. The Cretan king also had a child. Her name was Ariadne, and she had a well-earned reputation for being both intelligent and kind. She despised the horrors of the Minotaur and did not wish to have anything to do with a city with such a monster! When Ariadne saw Theseus, she came up with a plan. “Psst, come with me!” she whispered when they were not being observed. Ariadne pulled Theseus aside and told him of the scheme she had devised. “I can help you defeat the Minotaur, but if I do, you must take me with you!” Theseus agreed, and Ariadne handed him a spool of thread, a candle, and his sword. Then she led him to the entrance of the labyrinth. “Attach the end of the string to the door so you will be able to find your way out,” she told him softly. “Using the candle to light your way, go downward, turning neither left nor right. It is daylight, so the nocturnal creature will be sleeping. Catch him in his chamber, he will not have the advantage, and you will be able to defeat him! Good luck!” © Shell Education

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Down into the Minotaur’s dark lair went Theseus, straying neither left nor right. He followed always the path that led down toward the center of the maze. The walls and floor were cut into solid rock, and he observed passage after passage leading in every direction. But Theseus kept single-mindedly to his grim purpose. The air grew cooler, and he began to hear the drip of water echoing in the tunnels. Every once in a while he would notice the skitter or scrape of some small animal that had taken refuge in the labyrinth. Once or twice he nearly tripped over bones that had been left scattered in the passages. Theseus shuddered but continued on without pausing to reflect on the fate of those who had come into this maze before. After a great while, Theseus began to sense that he was coming close to the monster. It smelled like sweat and damp fur, but all was quiet. Finally, the prince came upon a door that was half ajar. Creeping around it, he spied the creature. Its massive form was coated in tufts of thick fur along its shoulders and torso. Deadly horns topped its shaggy head. As Theseus pushed into the room, ready to pounce, it suddenly awoke! Leaping up onto its powerful human legs, the beast stood eight feet tall! Undaunted, Theseus swung his sword with precision, only to be blocked by the Minotaur’s own weapon. The monster gave forth a deep bellow and then countered the boy’s attack! The two combatants struggled mightily, crashing through the tunnels. Forced to retreat into unknown chambers, Theseus feared that he might lose his way, but he held fast to the string Ariadne had given him and managed to keep his bearings. Up and down they fought, but in the end, Theseus prevailed. He cut the head from the beast and then followed the string back to where Ariadne stood waiting. When he arrived, Theseus was surprised to find that the princess had gathered all the Athenian youths—as well as her own younger sister. With Theseus at the helm, the triumphant group made their escape back to Athens by ship. Ariadne and Theseus were married. And of course, Crete never again needed sacrifices to feed its bloodthirsty guardian!

Element Focus: Setting If you were designing a setting that was meant to instill fear in the reader, how might you do it?

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© Shell Education

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race retold by Stephanie Paris

Once there lived a princess. Her name was Atalanta. She was a famous hunter, and she loved to compete. She would beat men at races. And she would beat them at hunting. The goddess Artemis had sent a huge boar. It was meant to punish the lands. Atalanta had drawn first blood on it. She was also the only woman to sail with Jason. She went with his Argonauts. She helped look for the Golden Fleece. Her father was the king. He wanted her to marry. Atalanta said, “Yes.” But she would only marry a man who could best her in a footrace. Any who lost would be killed! Most of the men knew Atalanta was fast. They knew she was strong. Few would try the race. But there was one man. He had watched her from afar. He loved her. His name was Hippomenes. He was strong. He was fast. But he knew that she could still beat him. So he prayed. He spoke to Aphrodite. She is the goddess of love. Aphrodite was moved. She decided to help him. She gave him three golden apples. He could use them to help win the race. The day of the race came. Both racers were in good form. Hippomenes darted out. He had the lead. But Atalanta overtook him. She started to get farther ahead. Hippomenes took out the first apple. He rolled it. It stopped in front of Atalanta. The princess was surprised! She was curious. She stopped to pick up the golden fruit. She stood still. She was amazed. It glowed. It looked perfect! Then she remembered what was happening. She tucked the apple away. She sprang back into the race. The racers were neck and neck. Atalanta again took the lead. Out came the second apple. The young man rolled it ahead of the princess. She knew she was winning. So she stopped. She picked up the golden orb. This gave Hippomenes the chance he needed! He took the lead in the race.

© Shell Education

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On they ran. They went through the woods. They went across fields. They jumped over hedges. They were a good match. They challenged each other. They made each other go faster. The finish line was in sight! Hippomenes was looking very tired. He staggered. Atalanta jumped into the lead. She was confident. She knew she would win! That is when the last apple appeared. The hopeful young man tossed the magical golden fruit. It landed just ahead of Atalanta. She thought she could still win. So she slowed one last time. She picked up the irresistible prize. But Hippomenes had one last trick. He was not as tired as he had pretended to be! Atalanta’s distraction was enough. It gained him an edge. The strong man pushed himself to the limit. They sprinted for the finish line. And he won! It had taken all the gifts of the goddess. Plus, he needed his own cunning. But Hippomenes had earned Atalanta’s hand in marriage. The princess had to admit that she had been defeated. She honorably lived up to her promise. She and Hippomenes were married. He became a prince of the realm. They had many adventures. And together, they had a son named Parthenopaeus. He would become a hero in his own right. Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending. Atalanta and Hippomenes angered Zeus. They did not behave properly in his temple. Zeus was in a rage! He turned the two of them into lions. The lions would always compete. They could never again be lovers.

Element Focus: Character Is Atalanta a stereotype? Or is she a well-rounded character? Give three examples in the story to support your belief.

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© Shell Education

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race retold by Stephanie Paris

Long ago, there lived a princess named Atalanta. She was a famous hunter. And she loved to best men in all feats of skill. Once, the goddess Artemis had sent a huge boar. It was meant to punish the lands. Atalanta drew first blood on it. And she had been the only woman to sail with Jason. She went with his Argonauts when they sought the Golden Fleece. Her father, the king, wanted her to marry. Atalanta agreed. But she would only marry a man who could beat her in a footrace. Any who lost would be killed! Most of the local men knew Atalanta was fast and strong. Few would try the race. But there was one man. He had watched Atalanta from afar. He loved her. His name was Hippomenes. He was strong and fast. But he knew that she could still beat him. So he prayed. He spoke to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Aphrodite was moved. She decided to help Hippomenes. She gave him three golden apples. He could use them when Atalanta was winning the race. The day of the race came. Both racers were in good form. Hippomenes darted to a quick lead. Soon though, Atalanta overtook him. She started to lengthen the distance between them. But Hippomenes took out the first of Aphrodite’s apples. He rolled it out in front of Atalanta. The princess was surprised! She was curious. She stopped to pick up the golden fruit. She stood as if in a trance. She was charmed by its glowing perfection. Then she remembered her situation. She tucked the apple away. She sprang back into the race. The racers were neck and neck. Then Atalanta again took the lead. Out came the second apple. The young man rolled it ahead of the princess. She knew she was well ahead. So she again paused. She picked up the golden orb. This gave Hippomenes the chance he needed! He regained his lead in the race.

© Shell Education

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On they ran. They went through the woods. They went across fields. They jumped over hedges. They were a good match. They challenged each other to go faster. Finally, the finish line was in sight! Hippomenes was looking very tired. He staggered a little. Atalanta confidently jumped into a significant lead. That is when the final apple appeared from Hippomenes’s pouch. The hopeful young man tossed the magical golden fruit out. It landed just ahead of Atalanta. She judged that her lead was sufficient to win, even with the delay. So she slowed a final time to retrieve the irresistible prize. But Hippomenes had one last trick. He was not as tired as he had pretended to be! Atalanta’s distraction was just enough to gain him an edge. The strong man pushed himself to the limit! They sprinted for the finish line. And he won! It had taken all the gifts of the goddess and his own cunning. But Hippomenes had earned Atalanta’s hand in marriage. The princess had to admit that she had been defeated in the race. She honorably lived up to her promise. She and Hippomenes were married, and he became a prince of the realm. They had many adventures. And together, they had a son named Parthenopaeus. He was fated to become a hero in his own right. Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending. Atalanta and Hippomenes angered Zeus by failing to behave properly in his temple. In a fit of rage, the king of gods turned the two of them into lions. These lions would always compete. They could never be lovers again.

Element Focus: Character How would you describe Atalanta?

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© Shell Education

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race retold by Stephanie Paris

Once there lived a princess named Atalanta. She was famous for her abilities as a hunter. She took great pride in besting the men of the realm in all feats of skill. She had drawn first blood on a monstrous boar that Artemis had sent to punish the lands. And she had been the only woman to sail with Jason and his Argonauts when they sought the Golden Fleece. Upon her return, her father, the king, wished that she be wed. Atalanta agreed. But she would only marry a man who could best her in a footrace. Those who lost would be put to death! Now, most of the men in the local realms knew of Atalanta’s strength and speed. So few were willing to attempt the run. But there was one man who had watched and loved Atalanta from afar. His name was Hippomenes. He was strong and swift. But he knew that Atalanta would still beat him in a fair race. So he prayed to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Aphrodite was moved by his plea. She decided to help Hippomenes. She gave him three golden apples and told him to use them in the race whenever Atalanta was getting too far ahead. On the day of the race, both competitors were in fine form. Hippomenes darted to a quick lead. Soon though, Atalanta overtook him. As she started to lengthen the distance between them, Hippomenes took out the first of Aphrodite’s apples. He rolled it out in front of Atalanta as she ran. Surprised and curious, Atalanta stopped to pick up the golden object. For just a moment, she stood transfixed by its glowing perfection. Then she regained her purpose. She tucked it away and sprang back into the race. The racers were neck and neck for a while. Then Atalanta again overtook Hippomenes. Out came the second apple. He rolled it ahead of the princess. Knowing she was well ahead, she again paused to retrieve the golden orb. This gave Hippomenes the chance he needed to regain his lead in the race. © Shell Education

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On they ran, through the woods, across fields, and over hedges. They were a good match. They challenged each other to move faster. Finally, the finish line was in sight! Hippomenes was looking extremely tired. He staggered a little, and Atalanta confidently jumped into a significant lead. That is when the final apple appeared from Hippomenes’s pouch. The hopeful young man tossed the magical golden fruit out just ahead of Atalanta. She judged that her lead was sufficient to win, even with the delay. So she slowed a final time to retrieve the irresistible prize. But Hippomenes had one last trick. He was not as tired as he had pretended to be! Atalanta’s distraction was just enough to gain him the edge that he needed. The strong man pushed himself to the limit in the sprint for the finish line. And he won! It had taken all the gifts of the goddess and his own cunning, but Hippomenes had earned Atalanta’s hand in marriage. The princess had to admit that she had been defeated in the race, and she lived up to her promise. She and Hippomenes were married, and he became a prince of the realm. Among their adventures together, they had a son named Parthenopaeus, who was fated to become a hero in his own right. Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending. Atalanta and Hippomenes angered Zeus by failing to behave properly in his temple. In a fit of rage, the king of gods turned the two of them into lions. These lions were forever destined to compete with each other. They were never to be lovers again.

Element Focus: Character How does Atalanta show her thoughts in her actions?

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© Shell Education

Atalanta and Hippomenes, The Race retold by Stephanie Paris

Once there lived a princess named Atalanta who was renowned for her remarkable abilities as a hunter. Indeed, she took great pride in being able to best the men of the realm in all feats of skill. She famously had drawn first blood on a monstrous boar that Artemis had sent to punish the lands. And she had been the only woman to sail with the hero Jason and his Argonauts as they sought the Golden Fleece. Upon her return, her father, the king, wished that she be wed. Atalanta agreed only to marry a man who could best her in a footrace. Those who lost would be put to death! Now, most of the men in the local realms knew of Atalanta’s strength and speed, so few were willing to attempt the run. However, there was one man who had watched and loved Atalanta from afar. His name was Hippomenes. He was strong and swift, but he knew that Atalanta would still beat him in a fair race, so he prayed to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Aphrodite was moved by his plea and decided to help Hippomenes. She gave him three golden apples and told him to use them in the race whenever Atalanta was getting too far ahead. On the day of the race, both competitors were in fine form. Hippomenes darted to a quick lead, but soon, Atalanta overtook him. As she started to lengthen the distance between them, Hippomenes took out the first of Aphrodite’s apples. He rolled it out in front of Atalanta as she ran. Surprised and curious, Atalanta stopped to pick up the golden object. For just a moment, she stood transfixed by its glowing perfection. Then she regained her purpose, tucked it away, and sprang back into the race. The racers were neck and neck, but eventually, Atalanta again overtook Hippomenes. Out came the second apple, and he rolled it ahead of the princess. Knowing she was well ahead, she again paused to retrieve the golden orb. This gave Hippomenes the chance he needed to regain his lead in the race. © Shell Education

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On they ran, through the woods, across fields, and over hedges. They were a good match and challenged each other to move faster. Finally, the finish line was in sight! Hippomenes was looking extremely tired. He staggered a little, and Atalanta confidently jumped into a significant lead. That is when the final apple appeared from Hippomenes’s pouch. The hopeful young man tossed the magical golden fruit out just ahead of Atalanta. She judged that her lead was sufficient to win, even with the delay, so she slowed a final time to retrieve the irresistible prize. But Hippomenes had one last trick. He was not as tired as he had pretended to be! Atalanta’s distraction was just enough to gain him the edge that he needed. The strong man pushed himself to the limit in the sprint for the finish line. And he won! It had taken all the gifts of the goddess and his own cunning, but Hippomenes had earned Atalanta’s hand in marriage. The princess had to admit that she had been defeated in the race, and she honorably lived up to her promise. She and Hippomenes were married, and he became a prince of the realm. Among their adventures together, they had a son named Parthenopaeus, who was fated to become a hero in his own right. Unfortunately, the story does not have a happy ending. Atalanta and Hippomenes angered Zeus by failing to behave properly in his temple. In a fit of rage, the king of gods turned the two of them into lions. These lions were forever destined to compete with each other and never to be lovers again.

Element Focus: Character What makes the character of Atalanta memorable?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Romulus and Remus retold by Stephanie Paris The Roman Empire was huge! Maybe you have heard the saying “All roads lead to Rome.” This is because the city of Rome was very important. It was the most important city in Europe. This lasted for hundreds of years. The Roman Empire went from Britain to Egypt. It went from Spain to Syria. But the huge empire started with one city. And that city started with a story. Long ago, there were two brothers. One was named Numitor. The other was Amulius. Numitor was king of Alba Longa. But his brother tricked him. Amulius took the throne. Numitor was sent away. His daughter was Rhea Silva. She was forced to become a priestess. She had to serve the goddess Vesta. She could not marry. She could not have children. Amulius did not want her to have any male heirs. He was afraid they might want to be king. Rhea Silva was very beautiful. Mars fell in love with her. He was the god of war. Soon, the two were married. It was a secret. The couple met in hidden places. They sneaked around. They hoped no one would see them. They were careful. But Rhea gave birth to twins. They could not hide it. Amulius was angry! The king took the twins. He put them in a trough. He put it in the river Tiber. He wanted them to drown. He hoped they would be eaten by animals. Were the babies killed? No. That would make this a very short story! The babies landed safely. They were found by animals. One was a she-wolf. The other was a woodpecker. Some guessed that Mars sent them. They could help his sons. The she-wolf nursed the twins. She treated them like her pups. And the woodpecker brought food. This was strange. But the boys did well. A short time passed. Then they were found by a shepherd. He was named Faustulus. Faustulus had a wife, Loba. They adopted the babies. The twins were cared for. They were loved. The babies grew into boys. The boys grew into young men. Then as happens in stories like this, the twins found out who they were. They learned they were princes. They felt they had a purpose. The shepherds became warriors. They raised an army. They swore to cast out Amulius. They would put Numitor back on the throne.

© Shell Education

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Battles were won. Deals were struck. The twins won. Their grandfather, Numitor, was again king! The brothers celebrated. But they could not go back. They did not want to be shepherds. They were used to leading. It would be long before their grandfather died. It would be long before they inherited his crown. Instead, they decided to build a city. It would be their own. They both knew where to go. They went to the place where the she-wolf had found them. They went to the banks of the river Tiber. Here the story gets sad. Romulus and Remus argued. Romulus wished to build on the Palatine Hill. Remus wanted the Aventine Hill. Both were good places. Neither brother would give in. Each started his own city on his favorite spot. One day, Remus came to visit his brother. He wanted to see how the building was going. He saw the low wall. He teased Romulus. “A child could get over this wall!” he cried. Then he leaped over the stones. He wanted to prove his point. Romulus got very angry. He raised a rock. He struck his brother. He killed Remus! It was an accident. He cried for his twin. But Romulus said, “So die everyone who should leap over the walls of my city!” Romulus named the city Rome. It was named after him. He declared himself king. The city needed people. The first ones were criminals! There were runaway slaves, too. After a war, Rome linked up with two tribes. One was the Sabines. The other was the Latins. Together, they got more land. They made the city into a kingdom. Then Numitor died. The people of Alba Longa made Romulus their king. They became part of Rome. So Rome grew. It got bigger from the very start! At last, Romulus became old. Death was coming. His father, Mars, returned. The god cast a whirlwind upon the Earth. It took his son up into the heavens. Jupiter made him a god. Then Romulus was known as Quirinus. He was worshipped. He was celebrated by the people of Rome.

Element Focus: Character How might you have done things differently from how Romulus did them?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Romulus and Remus retold by Stephanie Paris .

The Roman Empire was vast! Maybe you have heard the saying “All roads lead to Rome.” This is because for many hundreds of years, the city of Rome was the most important city in Europe. At one point, the Roman Empire stretched from Britain to Egypt. It went from Spain to Syria. But that huge empire started with a single city. And that city started with a story. In ancient times, there was a pair of brothers. They were named Numitor and Amulius. Numitor was king of Alba Longa. But his brother tricked him. Amulius seized the throne. Numitor was sent away. His daughter’s name was Rhea Silva. She was forced to become a priestess of the goddess Vesta. Vestal priestesses could not marry. They could not have children. Amulius did not want her to give birth to any male heirs. He was afraid they might want to take the throne. Rhea Silva was very beautiful. Mars fell in love with her. He was the god of war. Soon, the two were secretly wed. The couple met in hidden places. They sneaked around so no one would see them. They were careful. They kept their relationship secret. But then Rhea gave birth to twins. The union could not be denied. Amulius was furious! The king took the twins. He put them in a trough. He sent them down the river Tiber. He wanted them to drown. He hoped that they would be eaten by some wild beasts. But what if the children had been killed? This would not be much of a story! Instead, they landed safely on the shore. They were found by a she-wolf and a woodpecker. Some guessed that Mars sent these animals. They could help his sons. Both animals are sacred to Mars. The she-wolf nursed the twins. She treated them like her own pups. And the woodpecker brought other food. This was strange. But, the boys thrived. After a short time, they were found by a shepherd. He was named Faustulus. Faustulus and his wife, Loba, adopted the babies. They were cared for and loved. The babies grew into boys. And the boys grew into young men. Then as happens in tales of this kind, the twins found out who they were. They learned they were princes. Romulus and Remus felt they had a greater purpose. The shepherds became warriors. They raised an army. They swore to cast out Amulius. They would restore Numitor to the throne. © Shell Education

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Battles were won. Deals were struck. And in the end, the twins succeeded. Their grandfather, Numitor, was once again king! The brothers celebrated. But they understood that they could not go back to being shepherds. Now they were used to leading. They did not wish to await their grandfather’s death. It would take too long to divide his kingdom. Instead, they decided to build a city of their own. They both knew where the city would be. They went to the place where the she-wolf had found them. They went to the banks of the river Tiber. Alas, it is here that the story gets sad. Romulus and Remus quarreled. They did not agree on the exact location for their walled city. Romulus wished to build on the Palatine Hill. Remus preferred the Aventine Hill. Both were good places. Neither brother would give in. They each began to build their own city in his own favored spot. One day, Remus came to visit his brother and see how his construction was going. He saw the low wall that Romulus had built. He teased Romulus. “This wall could be breached by a child!” he cried. Then he leaped over the stones to prove his point. In a fit of rage, Romulus raised a rock and struck his brother. He accidentally killed Remus! Though he grieved for his twin, Romulus announced, “So perish everyone who should leap over the walls of my city!” Romulus named the city Rome after himself and declared himself king. The city was populated at first by fugitives, runaway slaves, and criminals. After a war, Rome linked up with the tribes of the Sabines and Latins. Together, the groups began to expand and strengthen the new city into a kingdom. When Numitor died, the people of Alba Longa declared Romulus their rightful king as well. And so Rome was growing and expanding from the very start! When at last Romulus became old and approached death, his father, Mars, returned. The god cast a whirlwind upon the Earth. He took his son up into the heavens, and Jupiter granted him godhood. Thenceforth, Romulus was known as the god Quirinus. He was worshipped and celebrated among the people of Rome.

Element Focus: Character For what reasons do you like or dislike the character of Romulus?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Romulus and Remus retold by Stephanie Paris The Roman Empire was vast! Maybe you have heard the saying “All roads lead to Rome.” This is because for many hundreds of years, the city of Rome was the most important city in Europe. At the height of its glory, the Roman Empire stretched from modern Britain to Egypt and from modern Spain to Syria. But that enormous empire started with a single city. And that city started with a story. In ancient times, there lived a pair of royal brothers named Numitor and Amulius. Numitor was king of Alba Longa until his brother tricked him. Amulius seized the throne for himself. Numitor lived in exile, but his daughter, Rhea Silva, was forced to become a priestess of the goddess Vesta. Vestal priestesses were not allowed to marry or have children. Amulius did not want her to give birth to any male heirs that might challenge him for the throne. Rhea Silva, however, was very beautiful. Even as a Vestal, she soon attracted the attention of the war god, Mars. Despite her vows, the two were secretly wed. The couple met in concealed places. They sneaked into abandoned corners to see each other. Always careful, they kept their relationship hidden. But when Rhea gave birth to twins, the union could no longer be denied. Amulius was furious! The king took the twins and put them in a trough, floating them down the river Tiber. He hoped that they would drown or be eaten by some wild beasts. But, of course, if the children had been killed then and there, this would not be much of a story! Instead, they came to rest safely on the shore of the river. There they were found by a she-wolf and a woodpecker. Some guessed that Mars sent these creatures to help his sons. The wolf and the woodpecker are both animals sacred to the god of war. Whatever the case, the she-wolf nursed the twins as her own pups. The woodpecker brought other food to nourish them. Despite this odd arrangement, the boys thrived. After a short while, they were found by a shepherd named Faustulus. Faustulus and his wife, Loba, adopted them. Cared for and loved, the babies grew into young men. Then, Romulus and Remus discovered their true identities. As princes, Romulus and Remus felt they had a purpose. They became warriors. They raised an army and swore to cast out Amulius and restore Numitor to the throne. © Shell Education

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Battles were won. Deals were struck. And in the end, the twins succeeded in their goal. Their grandfather, Numitor, was once again king! The brothers celebrated their success. But they understood now that they could not go back to being shepherds. The young men were accustomed to leading. They did not wish to await their grandfather’s death so they would divide his kingdom. Instead, they determined to build a city of their own. There was never a doubt in either mind where this city would be. They sought out the place where the she-wolf had found them on the banks of the river Tiber. Alas, it is here that the story takes a tragic turn. Romulus and Remus quarreled over the exact location for their walled city. Romulus wished to build on the Palatine Hill, while Remus preferred the Aventine Hill. Both were attractive locations, and neither brother would give in. Each began to build his own city in his own favored spot. One day, Remus came to visit his brother and see how his construction was going. When he saw the low wall that Romulus had built, he mocked him. “This wall could be breached by a child!” he cried, leaping over the stones to prove his point. In a fit of rage, Romulus raised a rock and struck his brother, accidentally killing him! Though he grieved for his twin, Romulus announced, “So perish everyone who should leap over the walls of my city!” Romulus named the city Rome after himself and declared himself king. The city was populated at first by fugitives, runaway slaves, and criminals. After a war, Rome linked up with tribes of Sabines and Latins. Together, the groups began to expand and strengthen the new city into a kingdom. When Numitor died, the people of Alba Longa declared Romulus their rightful king, as well. And so Rome was growing and expanding from the very start! When at last Romulus became old and approached death, his father, Mars, returned. The god cast a whirlwind upon the Earth. He took his son up into the heavens, and Jupiter granted him godhood. Thenceforth, Romulus was known as the god Quirinus. He was worshipped and celebrated among the people of Rome.

Element Focus: Character What are some explanations for Romulus’s actions?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Romulus and Remus retold by Stephanie Paris The Roman Empire was vast! Maybe you have heard the saying “All roads lead to Rome.” This is because for many hundreds of years, the city of Rome was the most important city in Europe. At the height of its glory, the Roman Empire stretched from modern Britain to Egypt and from modern Spain to Syria. But that enormous empire started with a single city, and that city started with a story. In ancient times, there lived a pair of royal brothers named Numitor and Amulius. Numitor was king of Alba Longa until his brother tricked him. Amulius seized the throne for himself. Numitor lived in exile, but his daughter, Rhea Silva, was forced to become a priestess of the goddess Vesta. Vestal priestesses were not allowed to marry or have children, and Amulius wished to prevent her from giving birth to any male heirs that might challenge him for the throne. Rhea Silva, however, was very beautiful, and even as a Vestal, she soon attracted the attention of the war god, Mars. Despite her vows, the two were secretly wed. The couple met in concealed places and sneaked into abandoned corners for their rendezvous. They were careful to keep their relationship hidden. But when Rhea gave birth to twins, the union could no longer be denied. Amulius was furious! The king took the twins and put them in a trough, floating them down the river Tiber, hoping that they would drown or be eaten by some wild beasts. But of course, if the children had been killed then and there, this would not be much of a story! Instead, they came to rest safely on the shore of the river. There they were found by a she-wolf and a woodpecker. Some guessed that Mars sent these creatures to help his sons since the wolf and the woodpecker are both animals sacred to the god of war. Whatever the case, the she-wolf nursed the twins as her own pups, and the woodpecker brought other food to nourish them. Despite this odd arrangement, the boys thrived and survived until they were found by a kindly shepherd named Faustulus. Faustulus and his wife, Loba, adopted them. Cared for and loved, the babies grew into young men. Then Romulus and Remus discovered their true identities. As princes, Romulus and Remus felt they had a purpose. They became warriors, raising an army and swearing to cast out Amulius and restore Numitor to the throne. © Shell Education

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Battles were won, and deals were struck. In the end, the twins succeeded in their goal. Their grandfather, Numitor, was once again king! The brothers celebrated their success, but they now understood that they could not go back to being shepherds. The young men were accustomed to leading and did not wish to await their grandfather’s death to divide his kingdom. Instead, they determined to build a city of their own. There was never a doubt in either mind where this city would be. They sought out the place where the she-wolf had found them on the banks of the river Tiber. Alas, it is here that the story takes a tragic turn. Romulus and Remus quarreled over the exact location for their walled city. Romulus wished to build on the Palatine Hill, while Remus preferred the Aventine Hill. Both were attractive locations, and neither brother would give in. They each began to build his own city in his own favored spot. One day, Remus came to visit his brother and see how his construction was going. When he saw the low wall that Romulus had built, he mocked him. “This wall could be breached by a child!” he cried, leaping over the stones to prove his point. In a fit of rage, Romulus raised a rock and struck his brother, accidentally killing him! Though he grieved for his twin, Romulus announced, “So perish everyone who should leap over the walls of my city!” Romulus named the city Rome after himself and declared himself king. The city was populated at first by fugitives, runaway slaves, and criminals. After a war, Rome linked up with tribes of Sabines and Latins. Together, the groups began to expand and strengthen the new city into a kingdom. When Numitor eventually died, the people of Alba Longa declared Romulus their rightful king as well. And so Rome was growing and expanding from the very start! When at last Romulus became old and approached death, his father, Mars, returned. The god cast a whirlwind upon the Earth. He took his son up into the heavens and Jupiter granted him godhood. Thenceforth, Romulus was known as the god Quirinus and was worshipped and celebrated by the people of Rome.

Element Focus: Character Explain several reasons why the character of Romulus is not a typical heroic protagonist.

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© Shell Education

Paris and the Golden Apple retold by Stephanie Paris Paris had come to the party innocently. He had no choice, really. Who can turn down an invitation from Zeus? Peleus and Thetis were friends. They were the wedding couple. This was a joyful event! How, then, had he gotten himself into this mess? Paris thought back. He thought over the evening. It had begun well. There was plenty of food. And there was good drink. All the gods and goddesses were there. Wait, not all the goddesses! Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited. It makes sense. Who wants discord at a wedding? But Eris had come. She didn’t stay. All she did was toss the golden apple into the party. Paris remembered when the apple had fallen. Someone had picked it up. It said, “To the fairest.” That is when the trouble started. That is when his fate had been set. Three goddesses had claimed the apple. They were Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena. Zeus was asked which of them was “fairest.” But the old god was too smart. He would not judge that! Zeus had asked Paris to judge. Paris was a prince. He came from Troy. He was known for being a fair judge. Now, here he sat. The goddesses were getting ready. Soon, they would arrive. He would have to choose. Still, he must remember something. It was an honor. Paris sighed. Fate was never easy. “I guess I should enjoy this. It does not happen every day. Who knows what may become of it?” he thought. The first out was Hera. The queen of the gods was beautiful! Hera was tall. She was serious. Her movements were careful. She walked toward him slowly. She was turning gracefully. She wanted to let him see all her womanly charm. Her hair showed off her face. She looked young. But her eyes were old. Each of the goddesses had lived many lifetimes. But their beauty was immortal. It would never fade. Each looked to be a woman at her prime. Hera went to Paris. She bent down. She whispered in his ear. “If you choose me,” she said, “you shall have wealth. You shall have power! You shall be a great king! Asia and Europe will be under your control!” Paris’s breath caught in his throat. He said nothing. The goddess was trying to bribe him.

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Next out was Athena. She was the goddess of wisdom and courage. Paris now knew that his task was dangerous. Athena was beautiful! Her hair had jewels in it. Her soft skin had a powdery glow. She looked like fine sculpted marble come to life. She swayed and turned. She was smaller than the others. She wanted to display her figure at its best angles. She knelt to whisper, “If you choose me, you shall have wisdom! You shall have knowledge! And you shall have glory in battle!” Paris hid his reaction. But his mind was racing with the possibilities. Finally, Aphrodite made her entrance. She was the goddess of love and beauty. A subtle smile played upon her lips. Paris thought that this goddess looked more confident. She took her time. She walked toward him slowly. Her eyes did a playful dance. They darted over Paris. They looked at the scene before her. She looked first at his face, then away. The woman standing before him was very beautiful. She was neither tall nor short. Every inch of her was pleasant. She leaned down slowly. She whispered, “If you choose me, you shall have the most beautiful, loving wife in all of Greece!” Paris gulped. He did not even realize what he did. He handed the apple to Aphrodite. Hera and Athena were not pleased. Paris caught a wicked glance from the goddess queen. It sent a chill down his spine. But for today, he knew his choice was right. “Please, Aphrodite, tell me. Who is my wife to be?” asked Paris. His voice was a hushed whisper. Aphrodite said, “Your beloved lies only a short distance from here. Her name is Helen. She is the queen of Sparta.” Paris felt his heart sink. It was true that the Spartan queen was, by all accounts, the most beautiful mortal of the age. But now, she was married to King Menelaus! How could he ever hope to have her as his wife? Still, the goddess had promised it. Now he looked up into the eyes of Aphrodite. She looked back. His heart kindled into fire. Of course, Helen would be his! She would be his wife! It would happen even if he must lead a fleet of ships to Sparta. Paris gasped. He began to understand what these thoughts would mean. Then he sighed. He shook his head. He knew his fate was set. Tonight he had come to a wedding party. He hadn’t had a worry in the world. But now, he was about to start a war over a woman he had never even met!

Element Focus: Character From whose point of view is this story told? How does this affect the story?

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© Shell Education

Paris and the Golden Apple retold by Stephanie Paris Paris had come to the party innocently. It really wasn’t even a choice. Who can turn down an invitation from Zeus? Besides, Peleus and Thetis were friends. They were the couple being celebrated. The marriage was a joyful event! How, then, had he gotten himself into this mess? Paris thought back over the evening. It had begun so well. There was plenty of food and drink. And all the gods and goddesses were there. Wait, not all the goddesses, he reminded himself. Eris, the goddess of discord, had not been invited. It makes sense. Who wants discord at a wedding celebration? But Eris had arrived anyway. She didn’t even have to stay. All she did was toss the golden apple into the party. Paris remembered the commotion when the apple had fallen. Someone had picked it up. It said: “To the fairest.” That is when the trouble started. That is when Paris’s fate had been set. Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena had each claimed the apple! Zeus was asked to judge which of them was “fairest.” But the wily old god was too smart. He would not judge that. Instead, Zeus had asked Paris to judge. Paris was a prince of Troy. He had a reputation for fairness. And now, here he sat. The three goddesses were primping. Soon they would present themselves to him. He would have to choose. Still, he must remember it was indeed an honor. Paris sighed at the role of fate. “I guess I might as well enjoy this. It is not something that happens every day. Who knows what may become of it?” he thought. The first to present herself was Hera. The queen of the gods was beautiful! Hera was tall and serious. She was elegant and careful in her movements. She walked toward him slowly. She was turning gracefully to let him see all her womanly charm. Her hair was arranged to show off the youthful blush of her ancient face. Each of the goddesses had lived many lifetimes of men. But, their beauty was immortal. It would never fade. Each looked to be a woman at the height of her loveliness. Hera approached Paris. She bent and whispered in his ear. “If you choose me,” she said, “You shall have wealth and power! You shall be a great king with Asia and Europe under your control!” Paris’s breath caught in his throat. But he said nothing. He had not thought that the goddesses might try to bribe him.

© Shell Education

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Next to present herself was Athena. She was the goddess of wisdom and courage. Paris was now fully aware that his task was dangerous. Athena was undoubtedly beautiful! Her hair was arranged with jewels. The powdery glow of her soft skin gave the impression of fine sculpted marble come to life. Like Hera, she swayed and turned as she approached. When she arrived beside Paris, she knelt to whisper, “If you choose me, you shall have wisdom, knowledge, and glory in battle!” Paris hid his reaction. But his mind was racing with the possibilities. Finally, Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, made her entrance. A subtle smile played upon her lips as she approached. Paris thought that this goddess looked more confident than the others. She took her time as she walked toward him. She let her eyes playfully dance over Paris and the scene before her. She looked first at his face, then away. The effect was flirtatious. And it was confusing. Once again, the woman standing before him was of unsurpassed beauty. She was neither tall nor short. Every inch of her was constructed to be pleasing. When the goddess had completed the walk, she leaned down slowly. She whispered, “If you choose me, you shall have the fairest and most loving wife in all of Greece!” Paris gulped. He did not realize what he did. He handed the apple to Aphrodite. Hera and Athena were not pleased. In fact, Paris caught a wicked glance from the goddess queen. It sent a chill down his spine. But for today, he knew his choice was right. “Please, Aphrodite, tell me. Who is my wife to be?” asked Paris. Aphrodite replied, “Your beloved lies a short distance from here. Her name is Helen. She is the queen of Sparta.” Paris felt his heart sink. It was true that the Spartan queen was, by all accounts, the most beautiful mortal of the age. But now, she was married to King Menelaus! How could he ever even hope to have her as his wife? Still, the goddess had promised it. He had faith in her vow. Now he looked up into the eyes of Aphrodite. She connected with his gaze. He felt his heart kindled into a fire. Of course, Helen would be his! She would be his wife! It would happen even if he must lead a fleet of ships to Sparta to take her himself. Paris gasped. He began to understand what these thoughts would mean. Then he sighed. He shook his head. He knew his fate was set. Tonight he had come to a wedding party without a worry in the world, and now he was about to start a war over a woman he had never even met!

Element Focus: Character Form a hypothesis about what might happen to Paris once he arrives to take his new wife.

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© Shell Education

Paris and the Golden Apple retold by Stephanie Paris Paris had come to the party quite innocently. It really wasn’t even a choice. After all, who turns down an invitation from Zeus? Besides, the couple being celebrated, Peleus and Thetis, were friends. The marriage was a joyful event! How, then, had he gotten himself into this bind? Paris thought back over the evening. It had begun so well. The food and drink were abundant, and all the gods and goddesses were in attendance. Wait, not all the goddesses, he reminded himself. Eris, the goddess of discord, had not been invited. After all, who wants discord at a wedding celebration? But even though she had not been on the guest list, Eris had arrived. She didn’t even need to stay. All she did was toss the golden apple into the party. Paris remembered the commotion when the apple had fallen. Someone had picked it up and read it aloud: “To the fairest.” That is when the trouble started. That is when Paris’s journey toward an unexpected fate had begun. Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena had each claimed that the apple must belong to her! Zeus was asked to judge which of them was “fairest,” but the wily old god was too smart to get involved in judging that. Instead, Zeus had asked Paris to make the judgment. Zeus knew that as a prince of Troy, Paris had a reputation for fairness. And now, here he sat. The three goddesses were primping with their attendants. Soon, they would present themselves to him, and he would have to choose. Still, he must remember it was indeed an honor. Paris sighed at the role of fate. “I guess I might as well enjoy this. It is not something that happens every day. Who knows what may become of it?” he thought. The first to present herself was Hera. The queen of the gods was, indeed, beautiful! She walked toward him slowly, turning gracefully to allow him to see her womanly charm from every angle. Her hair was arranged to accentuate the youthful blush of her ancient face. For though each of the goddesses had lived many lifetimes of men, their beauty was immortal and unfading. Each appeared to be a woman at the height of her feminine glory. When Hera approached him, she bent and whispered in his ear. “If you choose me,” she said, “you shall have wealth and power! You shall be a great king with Asia and Europe under your control!” Paris’s breath caught in his throat, but he said nothing. He had not anticipated that the goddesses might try to bribe him. © Shell Education

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Next to present herself was Athena, goddess of wisdom and courage. Paris was now fully aware that his task was perilous. Athena, too, was undoubtedly beautiful! Her hair was arranged with jewels, and the powdery glow of her soft skin gave the impression of fine sculpted marble come to life. Like Hera, she swayed and turned as she approached. When she arrived beside Paris, she knelt to whisper, “If you choose me, you shall have wisdom, knowledge, and glory in battle!” Paris hid his reaction, but his mind was racing with the possibilities. Finally, Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, made her entrance. A subtle smile played upon her lips as she approached. Paris thought that this goddess looked more confident than the others. She took her time as she walked toward him, allowing her eyes to playfully dance over Paris and the scene before her. She stared first into his eyes and then at the world about her. The effect was both flirtatious and confusing. Once again, the woman standing before him was of unsurpassed beauty. She was neither tall nor short, but every inch of her was constructed to be pleasing on the eye. When the goddess had completed the walk, she leaned down slowly and whispered, “If you choose me, you shall have the fairest and most loving wife in all of Greece!” Paris gulped. Without even realizing what he did, he handed the apple to Aphrodite then and there. Hera and Athena were not pleased, of course. In fact, Paris caught a wicked glance from the goddess queen that sent a chill down his spine. But for today, he knew his choice was right. “Please, Aphrodite, tell me. Who is my wife to be?” asked Paris. Aphrodite replied, “Your beloved lies only a short distance from here. Her name is Helen, and she is the queen of Sparta.” Paris felt his heart sink. It was true that the Spartan queen was the most beautiful mortal of the age. But now, she was married to King Menelaus! How could he ever even hope to have her as his wife? Still, the goddess had promised it, and he had faith in her vow. Now he looked up into the eyes of Aphrodite, and he felt his heart kindled into a blaze. She would be his wife even if he must lead a fleet of ships to Sparta to take her himself! Paris gasped as he began to understand the implications of his thoughts. Then he sighed and shook his head. He knew that his fate was set. Tonight he had come to a wedding party without a worry in the world, and now he was about to start a war over a woman he had never even met!

Element Focus: Character Describe the ways this story might be different if it were told from the point of view of Hera instead.

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© Shell Education

Paris and the Golden Apple retold by Stephanie Paris Paris had come to the party quite innocently. It really hadn’t even been a choice. After all, who turns down an invitation from Zeus? Besides, the couple being celebrated, Peleus and Thetis, were friends. The marriage was such a joyful event! How, then, had he gotten himself into this bind? Paris thought back over the evening. It had begun so well, with abundant food and drink and all the gods and goddesses in attendance. Eris, the goddess of discord had not been invited—after all, who wants discord at a wedding celebration? But, even though she had never been on the guest list, Eris had arrived, all right. She didn’t even need to stay to create her havoc. All she did was toss the golden apple into the party, then disappear in a puff of smoke. Someone had picked it up and read it aloud: “To the fairest.” That is when the trouble started. That is when Paris’s journey toward an unexpected fate had begun. Hera, Aphrodite, and Athena had each claimed that the apple must belong to her! Zeus was asked to determine which of them was “fairest,” but the wily old god was too smart to get involved in judging something as treacherous as that. Instead, Zeus had asked Paris to make the judgment. Zeus knew that as a prince of Troy, Paris had a reputation for being fair. So now, Paris sat uncomfortably waiting for three jealous goddesses to present themselves. They were off primping with their attendants, but soon they would present themselves to him. Paris sighed audibly at the role of fate. “I guess I might as well enjoy this since it is not something that happens every day. Who knows what may become of it?” he thought. The first to present herself was Hera. The queen of the gods was, indeed, undeniably beautiful! She walked toward him slowly, turning gracefully to allow him to see her womanly charm from every angle. Her hair was arranged to accentuate the youthful blush of her ancient face. For though each of the goddesses had lived many lifetimes of men, their beauty was immortal and unfading. When Hera approached him, she bent and whispered in his ear. “If you choose me,” she said earnestly, her rich voice resonating in his mind, “you shall have wealth and power beyond your dreams! You shall be a great king with all of Asia and Europe under your control!” Paris’s breath caught in his throat, but he remained silent. He had not anticipated that the goddesses might try to bribe him with their powers.

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Next to present herself was Athena, goddess of wisdom and courage. Paris was now fully aware that his task was more perilous than he had even guessed. The goddesses were taking this competition extremely seriously. Athena, too, was undoubtedly beautiful! Her hair was arranged with sparkling jewels, and the powdery glow of her soft skin gave the impression of fine sculpted marble come to life. Like Hera, she swayed and turned as she approached, wishing to display her compact figure at its best angles. When she arrived beside Paris, she knelt to whisper in a soft, full tone, “If you choose me, you shall have wisdom, knowledge, and glory in battle beyond that of any mortal man!” Paris hid his reaction, but his mind was racing with the possibilities. Finally, Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, made her entrance. A subtle smile played upon her lips as she approached, causing Paris to reflect that this goddess appeared more confident than the others. She took her time as she walked toward him, allowing her eyes to playfully dance over Paris and the scene before her. The effect was startlingly flirtatious and confusing. Once again, the woman standing before him was of unsurpassed beauty. She was neither tall nor short, but every inch of her was constructed to be pleasing to view. When the goddess had completed the walk, she leaned down slowly and whispered without using her voice at all, “If you choose me, you shall have the fairest and most loving wife in all of Greece!” Paris gulped, and without even fully realizing what he was doing, he handed the apple immediately to Aphrodite. Hera and Athena were not pleased. In fact, Paris caught a wicked glance from the goddess queen that sent a chill down his spine. But for today, his heart was content that this was inescapably the correct decision. “Please, Aphrodite, tell me who my wife is to be!” asked Paris. Aphrodite replied, “Your beloved lies only a short distance from here in Sparta. She is Helen.” Paris felt his heart sink with disappointment. Without a doubt, the Spartan queen was the most beautiful mortal of the age. But now, she was married to King Menelaus! How could he ever even hope to have her as his wife? Still, the goddess had promised it, and he had faith in her vow. Now he looked up into the eyes of Aphrodite and he felt his heart kindled into a blaze. She would be his wife even if he must lead a fleet of ships to Sparta to carry her away himself! Paris gasped as he began to understand the implications of his thoughts. Then he sighed and shook his head, acknowledging that his fate was set. Tonight he had come to a wedding party without a worry in the world, and now he was about to start a war over a woman he had never even met!

Element Focus: Character Explain why the characters fit well together.

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Perseus and the Gray Women retold by Stephanie Paris Perseus had something to do. The evil king, Polydectes, had sent him on an impossible errand. He knew his life was at stake. But that was not what worried him. His mother, Danae, was being held captive. Her life was at stake, too! Perseus had to seek out the gorgon, Medusa, and bring her head back for the king. If he failed, Perseus would be dead. And his mother, Danae, would live out her life as a slave. I will not fail, he told himself. But he had no clue where to find Medusa! He had gone deep into the wilderness. He was hoping for a sign. The gods had helped him. They had given him gifts. They had given advice. But now, he was alone. He went northwest. He had heard that there were three magical sisters. They could tell him the way. They lived in the northern mountains. On the seventh day, something changed. The landscape got harsh. There were no bird songs. The insects did not buzz. But the wind howled. Perseus came to a place that was icy. It was a sad place. He looked out. The rocks were colorless. He could see three forms huddling in the mist. They sat on logs. They were near a cooking fire. A pot bubbled above it. Perseus crept forward. He hoped to stay hidden. He wanted to hear what the women said. He was closer now. He could tell that they were women. But they were very strange women. These ladies were different. They were dressed in tattered shawls. Their ragged clothing was the same colorless gray as the rocks. All three had long, gray hair. They shared only one eye and one tooth. These they would pass greedily back and forth. “Sisters!” cried one, “hand me the eye! I think I smell a Child of Men!” At this, Perseus stepped from his hiding place. He came forward. He said, “Fear not, ladies! My name is Perseus. I am a man. But I mean no harm. Oh, Mothers, wisdom is the daughter of old age. So you should know many things. Tell me. Do you know the path to the gorgons?” “Who is calling us old?” cried one of the crones. Then the three women began to argue. “Sister, give me the eye! I want to see this rude young man!” “No, it is my turn still! And you have the tooth!” “Well, take the tooth then! I don’t want to bite him!” And so on they bickered. Finally, Perseus broke into their quarreling.

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“I do not reproach you! I honor your age! Please, tell me where to find Medusa and her sisters!” With this came another round of arguing among the Gray Women. Each wanted the eye. They began to pass it around in a circle. They grasped and fretted. Perseus had had enough. He stepped into the circle. He held out his hand. One of the women passed the precious thing to Perseus. The young hero took a large step back. He waited. “Where is the eye?” “Give it to me!” “It is my turn next!” “I want to see this strange man!” the ladies raged. “I beg your pardon, good women. I do not wish to inconvenience you further. You need not blame one another! I do believe that I am holding your eye. Yes! Here it is in my right hand,” the hero spoke with some satisfaction. The women were understandably dismayed. “Give it back! Give it back!” they cried. But Perseus got a twinkle in his own two eyes. He said, “I do not know. I do not like to see you so angry. Maybe your lives would be better if I threw this object of contention into the sea.” He could not resist pausing here to watch. The three Gray Women gasped and held their breath in fear. “Of course, if you tell me where the gorgons live, I would have to return the eye in exchange.” And so the women told him where he must go. “We do not know where the gorgons dwell, but we do know who might,” one said. “You must go to the south. Seek out Atlas, the giant who holds the world on his back. With him live his three daughters. They are nymphs. They will have items and stories to give you. Now, we have told you all we know. Return what is ours!” Perseus was as good as his word. He returned their eye to the sisters. He doubted, though, that it would bring them much peace. Then he began the next great leg of his adventures. He thought of the three Gray Women and their bickering ways. They were forever locked together. But they lacked the will to get along. Perseus thought about how much better it would be if the three could learn a little patience and kindness.

Element Focus: Character What does Perseus think about the Gray Women when he first meets them? What does he think of them by the end of the story?

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Perseus and the Gray Women retold by Stephanie Paris Perseus had a task to perform. The evil king, Polydectes, had sent him on an impossible errand. He knew his life was at stake. Yet, while vexing, that was not what concerned him. His mother, Danae, was being held captive. Her life as well was in the balance. Perseus must seek out the gorgon, Medusa, and bring her head back for the king. If he failed, Perseus would be dead. And his mother, Danae, would live out her life as the king’s slave. Perseus was determined not to fail. Unfortunately, he had no clue where to find Medusa! He had wandered deep into the wilderness. Mostly, he was hoping for a sign. The gods had helped him with gifts and advice. He traveled northwest. He had heard that in the northern mountains lived three magical sisters who could tell him the way. On the seventh day, something changed. The landscape grew stark. Neither the song of birds nor the buzz of insects entered his ears. But there was a long, low howl of the wind moving quickly through the valleys. Presently, Perseus came upon a place that was icy and bleak. He peered out across the colorless rocks. In the distance, he could make out three forms huddling in the mist. They sat on logs near a cooking fire. A cauldron bubbled above it. Perseus crept forward. He hoped to remain hidden and overhear what the women had to say. For now that he was closer, he could tell that they were women. Indeed, they were very strange women. These ladies were unlike anyone he had ever seen. They were dressed in tattered shawls. All three had long, gray hair. Among them, they shared only one eye and one tooth. These they would pass greedily back and forth. “Sisters!” cried one urgently, “hand me the eye! I think I smell a Child of Men!” At this, Perseus stepped from his hiding place and came forward. He said, “Fear not, ladies! My name is Perseus, and I am indeed a man. I mean no harm. Oh, Venerable Mothers, wisdom is the daughter of old age. Tell me, if you can, the path to the gorgons.” “Who is so bold as to reproach us with old age?” cried one of the crones. Then, the three women began to argue. “Sister, give me the eye that I may see this insolent youth!” “No, it is my turn still, and you have the tooth!” “Well, take the tooth then! I don’t intend to bite him with it!” And so on they bickered. Finally, Perseus once again broke into their quarreling.

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“I do not reproach you but honor your age! Pray, tell me where to find Medusa and her sisters!” With this came another round of arguing among the Gray Women. Each pressed her claim on the eye. They began to pass it around in a circle, grasping and fretting. Exasperated, Perseus stepped into the circle. He held out his hand. As the women handed the eye around, one of them unknowingly passed the precious thing to Perseus. The young hero instantly took a large step back and waited. “Where is the eye?” “Give it to me!” “It is my turn next!” “I want to see this strange visitor!” the ladies raged at one another nastily. “I beg your pardon, good women! I do not wish to cause you greater inconvenience. You need not blame one another, for I do believe that I am holding your eye here in my right hand,” declared the hero with some satisfaction. The women were understandably dismayed. “Give it back! Give it back!” they cried. But Perseus got a twinkle in his own two eyes. He said, “I do not know. I do not like to see you so upset. Perhaps your lives would be better if I threw this object of contention into the sea!” He could not resist pausing here to watch as the three Gray Women gasped and held their breath in fear. “Of course, if you were to tell me where the gorgons live, I would be honor bound to return the eye in exchange.” And so, with this strong incentive, the women told him where he must go. “We do not know where the gorgons dwell, but we do know who might,” one said. “You must go to the south and seek out Atlas, the giant who holds the world on his back. With him dwell his three daughters. They are nymphs, and they will have items and counsel to give you on your journey. Now, we have told you all we know. Return to us that which is ours!” Perseus was as good as his word. He returned to the sisters their eye, though he doubted that it would bring them much peace. As he began the next great leg of his adventures, he considered the three Grey Women and their bickering ways. They were forever locked together. They had a common need. Yet, they lacked the will to get along. Perseus thought about how much better it would be if the three could just learn to treat each other with patience and kindness!

Element Focus: Character How does Perseus’s opinion of the Grey Women change over the course of the story? Support your answer from the text.

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Perseus and the Gray Women retold by Stephanie Paris Perseus had an unpleasant task to perform. The evil king, Polydectes, had sent him on an impossible errand. He knew his life was at stake, yet, while vexing, this was not what concerned him. His mother, Danae, was being held captive, her life hanging in the balance, as well. Perseus must seek out the gorgon, Medusa, and bring her head back for the king. If he failed, Perseus himself would be dead, and his mother, Danae, would live out her life as the king’s slave. That was the fact that inspired Perseus’s determination to succeed. Unfortunately, he currently had no clue where to find Medusa! He had wandered deep into the wilderness without direction. The gods had helped him with gifts and advice early on, but now, he struggled to continue alone. He traveled northwest, for he had heard rumors that in the northern mountains lived three magical sisters who could show him the way. On the seventh day, something unidentifiable changed, and the landscape grew increasingly stark and desolate. Neither the song of birds nor the buzz of insects now entered his ears, but there was a long, low howl of the wind as it rushed hurriedly through the craggy valleys. Presently, Perseus came to a place that was icy and bleak. Peering out across the distance of colorless rock, he could make out three forms huddling in the mist. Perseus crept forward, hoping to remain hidden and overhear what the women had to say. For now that he was closer, he could tell they were the strangest women he had ever observed. These unique dames were dressed in tattered shawls. Each of the three had long, untamed gray hair, and they shared only one eye and one tooth. There they would pass these greedily back and forth. “Sisters!” cried one urgently, “hand me the eye! I believe I can smell a Child of Men!” At this, Perseus stepped from his hiding place. “Fear not, ladies! My name is Perseus. Be at peace, for I mean no harm. Venerable Mothers, it is said that wisdom is the daughter of old age. Tell me, where is the gorgons’s lair?” “Who is so bold as to reproach us with old age?” cried one of the crones. Then, the three women began to argue. “Sister, give me the eye that I may see this insolent youth!” “No, it is my turn still, and you have the tooth!” “Well, take the tooth then! I don’t intend to bite him with it!” And so on they bickered. Finally, Perseus once again broke into their quarreling.

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“I do not reproach you but honor your age! Pray, tell me where to find Medusa and her sisters, for I have an important appointment with them that I dare not miss!” With this came another round of arguing among the Gray Women. Each pressed her claim on the eye. They began to pass it around in a circle, grasping and fretting. Exasperated, Perseus stepped into the circle and held out his own hand. As the women handed the eye around, one of them unknowingly passed the precious thing to Perseus. The young hero instantly took a large step back and waited. “Where is the eye?” “Give it to me!” “It is my turn next!” “I want to see this strange visitor!” the ladies raged at one another nastily. “I beg your pardon, good women! I do not wish to cause you greater inconvenience. You need not blame one another, for I do believe that I am holding your eye here in my right hand,” declared the hero with some satisfaction. The women were understandably dismayed, but the hero now had their full attention. “Give it back! Give it back!” they wailed insistently. Perseus got a twinkle in his own two eyes as he said, “I do not know, dear ladies. I do not like to see you in such disquietude. Perhaps your lives would be better if I threw this object of contention into the sea!” He could not resist pausing here to watch as the three Gray Women gasped and held their breath in fear. “Of course, if you were to tell me where the gorgons live, I would be honor bound to return the eye.” And so, with this strong incentive, the women revealed where he must go for the next stage of his journey. “We do not know where the gorgons dwell, but we do know who might. You must go to the south and seek out Atlas, the giant who holds the world on his back. With him dwell three nymphs who are his daughters. They will have items and counsel to give you that will help you. Now, we have told you, so return what is ours!” Perseus was as good as his word. He returned to the sisters their eye, though he doubted that it would bring them much peace. As he began the next great leg of his adventures, he considered the three Gray Women and their bickering ways. They were forever locked together out of common need, yet they lacked the will to get along. Perseus thought about how much better it would be if the three could learn to treat each other with kindness and patience!

Element Focus: Character Perseus makes several comments that let the reader know what he is feeling about the Gray Women. Give several examples of how his opinion about them changes.

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Perseus and the Gray Women retold by Stephanie Paris Perseus was embarking on a journey to accomplish a most unpleasant task. The evil king, Polydectes, had dispatched him on a predictably impossible errand. His own life was obviously at stake, yet while vexing, this was surprisingly not his chief concern. His mother, Danae, was being held captive. Perseus must seek out the gorgon, Medusa, and return her lifeless head to the despicable king. If he failed, Perseus himself would be dead which, in his own assessment, was bad enough. But his failure would also ensure that his mother, Danae, would live out her days as the king’s slave. Unfortunately, all his personal determination had not yet revealed the location of Medusa! Perseus had wandered deep into the wilderness without direction, hoping for any sign. He traveled northwest, looking for three magical sisters who would show him the way forward. On the seventh day, there was an unidentifiable shift in the atmosphere, causing the landscape to grow increasingly barren and desolate. As he pushed onward, he no longer could discern the song of birds or the buzz of insects in his ears. Peering out across the expanse of colorless rock, he could make out three hunched forms huddling in the mist. They sat on logs near a cooking fire with a cauldron bubbling audibly above it. Perseus crept forward, hoping to remain hidden and overhear what the women were saying. For now that he was closer, he could tell that these were indeed women—the strangest women he had ever observed. These unique dames were dressed in tattered shawls, their ragged clothing seemingly drenched in the same colorless pigment as the surrounding rocks. Each of the figures displayed long, untamed gray hair, and among them they shared only one eye and one tooth. These necessary bits were passed back and forth. “Sisters!” cried one, urgently, “hand me the eye, for I believe I can smell a Child of Men!” At this, Perseus stepped from his hiding place. “My name is Perseus and I mean to do no harm to you. Venerable Mothers, it is said that wisdom is the daughter of old age. Tell me, where is the path to the gorgons’s lair?” “Who is so bold as to reproach us with old age?” cried one of the crones accusingly. Then the three women began to argue loudly. “Sister, give me the eye that I may see this insolent youth!” “No, it is my turn still, and you have the tooth!” “Well, take the tooth then! I don’t intend to bite him with it!” And so on they bickered. Perseus once again broke into their quarreling.

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“Good women, you misunderstand me entirely! I do not reproach you but honor your age! I beg that you tell me quickly where to find Medusa and her sisters, for I have an important appointment with them that I dare not miss!” With this came another round of arguing among the Gray Women. Each pressed her claim on the eye with increasing intensity. They began to pass it around in a circle, grasping and fretting. Exasperated, Perseus stepped into the circle and held out his own hand. As the women handed the eye around, one of them unknowingly passed the eye to Perseus. He instantly took a large step back and waited. “Where is the eye, now?” “You have had it long enough, Sister!” “It is my turn next, and I have not had it since he arrived!” “Why should you have it when I can make a judgment as well as the rest of you?” “I want to see this strange visitor, again!” the impatient ladies raged at one another nastily. “I beg your pardon, good women, but I do not wish to cause you greater inconvenience! You need not blame one another, for I do believe that I am holding your eye here in my right hand,” declared Perseus with some satisfaction. The women were understandably dismayed, but the hero now had their full attention. “What kind of young man would deny old women their sight?” “You were lying when you said you meant us no harm!” “Oh, do return the eye so that we can see!” they wailed pitifully. Perseus got a twinkle in his own two eyes as he said, “I do not know, dear ladies, for I do not like to see you in a state of such disquietude. Perhaps your lives would be better if I threw this object of contention into the sea forever!” He could not resist pausing here to watch as the three Gray Women gasped. “Of course, if you tell me where the gorgons live, I will return the eye in exchange.” And so, with this strong incentive, the women revealed where he must go. “We do not know where the gorgons dwell, but we do know who might. You must go to the south and seek out Atlas, the giant who holds the world on his back. The three nymphs that dwell there with him are his daughters and they will have items and advice to give you that will assist you on your journey. Now, we have revealed to you all we know, so honor your bargain and return to us that which is ours!” The honorable Perseus immediately returned the eye to the sisters, though he doubted that it would bring them much peace. As he began the next great leg of his adventures, he considered the three Grey Women and their bickering ways. They were forever locked together through common need, yet they lacked the will to get along. Perseus thought about how much better it would be if the three could just learn to treat each other with a little more patience and kindness!

Element Focus: Character Describe the ways that Perseus’s opinion of the Gray Women changes over the course of the story. What interactions initiate his changing opinion?

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Cupid and Psyche retold by Stephanie Paris Once there was a king with three daughters. Each was beautiful. But the youngest was most beautiful of all. Her name was Psyche. People would come from many miles. They just wanted to catch sight of her. Some people even began to worship her like a goddess. They stopped going to the temple of Venus. Venus was very jealous. She ordered her son, Cupid, to use his magic arrows. She wanted Cupid to make Psyche fall in love with a monster. But then Cupid saw Psyche. He was startled by her beauty. He dropped his arrow. The point pricked him! Instantly, he fell in love with the princess. He could not force her to fall in love with a monster. Time passed. But no one came to marry Psyche. Everyone still thought she was beautiful. Many powerful men admired her. But Psyche had offended the goddess of love. So there were no offers of marriage. Psyche’s parents were confused. And they were worried. They spoke with an oracle. They asked why Psyche was still unwed. The oracle told them, “Psyche will not marry a mortal. Her future husband is on the top of the mountain. He is a monster. Neither gods nor men can go against him.” Her parents mourned! But Psyche was brave. She went to the top of the mountain. A gentle wind lifted her up. It took her to a flowery field. Psyche looked around. She found that she was at a great palace. There were sweet-smelling gardens. There were fresh fountains. And there were pretty carved statues. Inside, she found many delights. Every room was filled with wonderful things. They were from all around the world. The library had the finest books. And good smells came from the kitchen. There were even invisible servants who took care of all her needs. When night fell, the princess went to her new bedroom. She was afraid. She had not met her new husband. Then he came in. But he would not show himself. He went to her rooms only after dark. And he left before the first light. She was happy, though. He was gentle. He was attentive. He was intelligent and thoughtful. He told her that he did not wish her to know who he was. She might be afraid. Or she might compare herself to him. Either way, this would not please him. He wanted her to be his equal in their marriage. © Shell Education

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Her life in the hidden palace was pleasant. But one day, her sisters came for a visit. Psyche showed them the amazing palace. The women grew jealous. They told Psyche that her husband must truly be a monster. He would fatten her up. Then he would eat her! They told her to sneak a lamp and a knife into the bedroom. Then when her husband slept, she should light up his true form. Then she could cut off his head! Psyche was afraid! She took her sisters’ advice. But when she held up the lantern, there was no monster. There was only the handsome Cupid! She leaned closer to see his face. A drip of wax fell on his shoulder. It awakened him. Sorrowfully, the god stretched his wings. He flew out the window. “I defied my mother to marry you! And this is the thanks I get?” he sighed. “Love cannot exist where there is not trust. Go back to your sisters! You value their advice more than mine. Your only punishment is that I shall leave you.” Psyche was devastated. But she knew what she must do. She went straight to Venus. Psyche begged forgiveness. She would try to regain the trust of her husband. Venus, though, was in no mood to forgive. She meant to punish the girl! Psyche had challenged her own beauty. And Psyche had broken the heart of her son! Venus set up a series of impossible challenges. She told the girl that she would earn the goddess’s forgiveness. But Venus did not plan to ever forgive Psyche. First, she made a huge pile of grain and beans mixed together. Psyche had to sort it all in one night. Cupid knew this could not be done. And he was still in love with Psyche. So he spoke to the leader of the ants. Millions of ants came! They patiently sorted the piles for Psyche. The next day, Venus was shocked and angry! But she set another task. So it went. Each day Venus set new tasks. And Cupid used his magic to help Psyche finish them. Finally, Cupid forgave Psyche. He went to Zeus. Cupid begged the king to help them. Zeus took pity on the couple. He ordered Venus to stop her punishment of the girl. And then, he did something truly amazing. He gave Psyche a drink. It made her into a goddess! Cupid and the now immortal Psyche were reunited. They lived happily on Mt. Olympus from that day forward.

Element Focus: Plot How is the story of Cupid and Psyche like a fairy tale?

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Cupid and Psyche retold by Stephanie Paris Once there was a king with three daughters. Each was beautiful. But the youngest was most beautiful of all. Her name was Psyche. People would come from many miles just to catch sight of her. Her beauty was so great that some began to worship her like a goddess. They stopped going to the temple of Venus. Venus grew jealous at this neglect. She ordered her son, Cupid, to use his magical arrows. She wanted Cupid to make Psyche fall in love with a monster. But when Cupid saw Psyche, he was so struck by her beauty that he dropped his arrow. He pricked himself upon its point! Instantly, he fell in love with the princess. He could not force her to fall in love with anyone. He could not make her love a monster. Time passed. But no one came to marry Psyche. It was true that all praised her. Many powerful men delighted to watch her grace and charm. But Psyche had offended the goddess of love. So there were no offers of marriage. Confused and worried, Psyche’s parents spoke with an oracle of Apollo. They asked why their lovely Psyche was still unwed. The oracle told them, “Psyche will be bride of no mortal. Her future husband waits for her on the top of the mountain. He is a monster whom neither gods nor men can resist.” Her parents mourned! But Psyche was brave. When she reached the top of the mountain, a gentle wind lifted her up. It carried her to a distant, flowery field. She found that she was on the grounds of a great palace estate. There were fragrant gardens. There were refreshing fountains. And there were pretty carved statues around the inviting building. Inside, she discovered a host of other delights. Every room was filled with wonderful things from around the world. Psyche was surprised that the house was fully staffed. There were invisible servants who took care of all her needs. When night fell, the princess went to her new bedroom. She was afraid. She had not met her new husband. When he arrived, he refused to show himself. He would enter her rooms only after the fall of darkness. And he would leave before the first light of morning. She was relieved, though. He was gentle, attentive, intelligent, and thoughtful. He told her that he did not wish her to know who he was. Either way, this would displease him. He wished her to feel his equal in their marriage.

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Her life in the hidden palace was quite pleasant. But one day, her sisters came for a visit. When Psyche finished showing them the amazing palace, the women grew jealous. They told Psyche that her husband must truly be a monster. He would fatten her up and eat her! They advised her to sneak a lamp and a knife into the chamber at night. Then when her husband slept, she should reveal his true form and cut off his head! Psyche grew afraid! At the first opportunity, she took her sisters’ advice. But when she held up the lantern, there was no monster. There was only the handsome Cupid! As she leaned closer to see his face, a drip of wax fell on his shoulder. It awakened him. Sorrowfully, the god stretched his wings and flew out the window. “I defied my mother to marry you! And this is the thanks I get?” he sighed. “Love cannot exist where there is not trust. Go back to your sisters, whose advice you value more than mine. Your only punishment is that I shall leave you.” Psyche was devastated. But she knew what she must do. She went immediately to Venus. She begged forgiveness of the goddess. Venus, though, was in no mood to be forgiving. She meant to punish the girl! Psyche had challenged her own beauty and broken the heart of her son! Venus set forth a series of impossible challenges for Psyche. She told the girl that if she completed them, she would earn the goddess’s forgiveness. But Venus did not plan to ever forgive Psyche. First, she made a huge pile of grain and beans mixed together. Psyche had to sort it all in one night. Cupid knew this task was impossible. And despite everything, he was still in love with Psyche. So he spoke to the leader of the ants. Millions of ants came and patiently sorted the piles for Psyche. The next day, Venus was shocked and angry! But she set another impossible task. So it went, day after day. Venus set new tasks. And Cupid used his magic to help Psyche finish them. Finally, convinced of Psyche’s loyalty, Cupid went to Zeus. Cupid begged the king of the gods to help them. Swayed by the story of their love, Zeus took pity on the couple. He ordered Venus to stop her punishment of the girl. And then, he did something truly amazing. He gave Psyche a drink made from ambrosia. It made her into a goddess! Cupid and the now immortal Psyche were reunited. They lived happily on Mt. Olympus from that day forward.

Element Focus: Plot Describe the ways that the story of Psyche and Cupid is similar to some fairy tales.

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Cupid and Psyche retold by Stephanie Paris Once there lived a king with three daughters. Each was more beautiful than the last. And indeed, the youngest, whose name was Psyche, was so beautiful that human words fail to describe her. Men and women would come from many miles just to catch a glimpse of her. Her beauty was so great that some began to neglect Venus! They chose instead to devote themselves to serving the princess. Venus grew increasingly jealous at this neglect. At last, she ordered her son, Cupid, to take his magical arrows and cause Psyche to fall in love with some monster. But when Cupid arrived at Psyche’s side, he was so struck by her beauty that he dropped his arrow. He pricked himself upon its point! Instantly, he fell in love with the princess. He could not force her to fall in love with anyone, let alone a monster. Time passed. But no suitors came forward for Psyche’s hand. It was true that all praised her. Many powerful men delighted to watch her grace and charm. But Psyche had unwittingly offended the goddess of love. So there were no offers of marriage. Confused and worried, Psyche’s parents consulted with an oracle of Apollo. They asked why their lovely Psyche remained unwed. The oracle told them, “Psyche will be bride of no mortal lover. Her future husband awaits her on the top of the mountain. He is a monster whom neither gods nor men can resist.” Her parents mourned! But Psyche bravely took up her fate. When she reached the top of the mountain, a gentle wind lifted her up. When she explored a bit further, she found that she was on the grounds of a great palace estate. There were fragrant gardens and refreshing fountains. Inside, she discovered a host of other delights. Every room was filled with exquisite objects from all corners of the globe. The library was stocked with the finest texts. And mouthwatering aromas drifted up from the kitchen. Psyche was surprised to find that the house was fully staffed with invisible servants. When night fell, the princess retired to her new bedchamber. She was afraid. She had yet to meet her new husband. When he arrived, he refused to show himself. He would enter her chambers only after the fall of darkness and leave before the first light. She was relieved, though, because he was gentle, attentive, intelligent, and thoughtful. He told her that he did not wish her to know his identity. He wished her to feel his equal in every aspect of their marriage.

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All in all, her life in the hidden palace was quite pleasant. But one day, her sisters came for a visit. When Psyche finished showing them the amazing treasures she had in the palace, the women grew jealous. They told Psyche that her husband must truly be a monster who would fatten her up and eat her! They advised her to sneak a lamp and a knife into the chamber at night. Then when her husband slept, she should reveal his true form and cut off his head! Psyche grew afraid! At the first opportunity, she took her sisters’ advice. But when she held up the lantern, there was no monster. There was only the handsome Cupid! As she leaned closer to see his face, a drip of wax fell on his shoulder and awakened him. Sorrowfully, the god stretched his wings and flew out the window. “I defied my mother to marry you, and yet this is the thanks I get?” he sighed. “Love cannot exist where there is not trust. Go back to your sisters whose advice you value more than mine. Your only punishment is that I shall leave you.” Psyche was devastated. But she knew what she must do. She went immediately to Venus to beg forgiveness of the goddess. Venus, however, was in no mood to be forgiving. She meant to punish the girl for both challenging her own beauty and breaking the heart of her son! Venus set forth a series of impossible challenges for Psyche, telling her that if she completed them, she would earn the goddess’s forgiveness. But Venus did not plan to ever forgive Psyche. First, she made a huge pile of grain and beans mixed together and told Psyche she must sort it all in one night. Knowing that this task was impossible, and still in love with Psyche, Cupid spoke to the leader of the ants. Millions of ants came and patiently sorted the piles for Psyche. The next day, Venus was shocked and angry, but she set another impossible task. So it went, day after day. Venus set new tasks, and Cupid used his magic to help Psyche finish them. Finally, convinced of Psyche’s loyalty, Cupid went to Zeus and begged the king of the gods to intercede on Psyche’s behalf. Swayed by the story of their love, Zeus took pity on the couple. He ordered Venus to stop her persecution of the girl. And then, he did something truly amazing. He gave Psyche a drink made from ambrosia that made her into a goddess! Cupid and the now immortal Psyche were reunited and lived happily on Mt. Olympus from that day forward.

Element Focus: Plot Give several examples of stories you know that have conflicts and resolutions similar to this story.

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Cupid and Psyche retold by Stephanie Paris Once there lived a king with three daughters, each one more beautiful than the last. And indeed, the youngest, whose name was Psyche, was very beautiful. Men and women would come from many miles just to catch a glimpse of her, and her beauty was so great that some began to neglect the temples of Venus, choosing instead to devote themselves to serving the princess. Venus, as you might imagine, grew increasingly jealous at this neglect. Finally, she ordered her son, Cupid, to take his magical arrows and cause Psyche to fall in love with some monster. She figured this would put an end to all the suitors hoping to win Psyche’s favors. But when Cupid arrived at Psyche’s side, he was so struck by her beauty that he dropped his arrow and pricked himself upon its point! His own magic worked its way into his heart and he fell instantly in love with the princess. He found that he could not force her to fall in love with anyone, let alone a monster. Time passed and no suitors came forward for Psyche’s hand. It was true that all still praised her and delighted to watch her grace and charm. But as she had unwittingly offended the goddess of love, there were no offers of marriage. Confused and concerned, Psyche’s parents consulted with an oracle of Apollo, begging to know why their lovely Psyche remained unwed. The oracle told them, “Psyche is destined for the bride of no mortal lover. Her future husband awaits her on the top of the mountain. He is a monster whom neither gods nor men can resist.” Her parents mourned, but Psyche bravely took up her fate. When she reached the top of the mountain, a gentle zephyr lifted her up and carried her to a distant, flowery field. When she explored a bit further, she discovered that she was on the grounds of a great palace estate. There were fragrant gardens, refreshing fountains, and intricately carved statues. Inside, she discovered a host of other delights. When night fell, the princess retired to her new bedchamber with some trepidation. She had yet to meet her new husband. He refused to show himself, but would enter her chambers only after the fall of darkness and leave before the first light. He told her that he did not wish her to know his identity because she might either be afraid or compare herself unfavorably to him. Either way, this would displease him because he wished her to feel his equal in every aspect of their marriage.

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All in all, her life in the hidden palace was quite pleasant. But one day, her sisters came for a visit. When Psyche finished showing them all the amazing treasures she had in the palace, the women grew jealous. They told Psyche that her husband must truly be a monster who would fatten her up and eat her! They advised her to sneak a lamp and a knife into the chamber at night, and then, when her husband slept, reveal his true form and cut off his head! Psyche grew afraid, and at the first opportunity, she took her sisters’ advice. But when she held up the lantern, there was no monster but only the handsome Cupid! As she leaned closer to see his face, a drip of wax fell on his shoulder and awakened him. In despair, the god stretched his wings and flew out the window. “I defied my mother to marry you, and yet this is the thanks I get?” he sighed. “Love cannot exist where there is not trust. Go back to your sisters, whose advice you value more than mine. Your only punishment is that I shall leave.” Psyche was devastated. But she knew what she must do. She went to Venus to beg forgiveness and try to regain the trust of her husband. But Venus meant to punish the girl for both challenging her own beauty and breaking the heart of her son! Venus set forth a series of impossible challenges for Psyche, telling her that if she completed them, she would earn the goddess’s forgiveness. But Venus did not plan to ever forgive Psyche. First, she made a huge pile of grain and beans mixed together and told Psyche she must sort it all in one night. Knowing that this task was impossible, and still in love with Psyche, Cupid spoke to the leader of the ants. Millions of ants came and patiently sorted the piles for Psyche. The next day, Venus was shocked and angry, but she set another impossible task. So it went day after day. Venus set new tasks and Cupid used his magic to help Psyche finish them. Finally, convinced of Psyche’s loyalty, Cupid went to Zeus and begged the king of the gods to intercede on Psyche’s behalf. Swayed by the story of their love, Zeus took pity on the couple. He ordered Venus to stop her persecution of the girl. And then, he did something truly amazing. He gave Psyche a drink made with ambrosia. This turned Psyche into a goddess! Psyche, who was now immortal, was reunited with her husband and the two of them lived happily on Mt. Olympus from that day forward.

Element Focus: Plot In what ways does Psyche’s conflict with Venus mirror the conflicts that are central to other stories that you have heard? Are the conflicts resolved in similar ways?

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Echo and Narcissus retold by Stephanie Paris

In Greece, there lived a very handsome young man. He was named Narcissus. He was a sight to see! He had perfect teeth. He had perfect hair. And his movements were all graceful. He seemed to flow like water, not run like a human. Everyone noticed him. And wherever he went, he broke hearts. Narcissus was not interested in love. He did not care about romance. He felt nothing for those who fell in love with him. He turned them all away without an understanding word. Nearby, there lived another lovely creature. Her name was Echo. She was a forest nymph. She and the other nymphs walked the woods. They cared for the plants. They played games. And they chatted happily. Unfortunately, Echo liked talking too much. She always talked a little too long. And she never let anyone else have the final word! Still, she was well-liked. And she was a good friend. Zeus was the king of the gods. He knew of Echo’s gift for talking. He thought it could be put to good use. Zeus asked Echo to serve as his lookout. He liked to come and spend time with many of the pretty nymphs. But his wife, Hera, was jealous. So when Hera came looking for Zeus, Echo would greet her. Echo would make small talk. She would flatter Hera. Then she would walk the goddess a safe distance away. This would give Zeus time to escape. The plan worked well for a while. But Hera grew suspicious. One day, she figured out the trick. That was not a good day for poor Echo. Hera was furious! She said, “You are so fond of talking. I know a punishment that will fit. From this moment forward, you will never be allowed to speak unless you are first spoken to!” Hera cursed Echo to have no voice. But Echo would still be able to repeat whatever was said to her. Silently, Echo wandered. She listened for the voices of others. That was the only time she could use her own voice. One day, she saw Narcissus. She fell instantly in love! She followed him secretly through the woods. Echo watched him from behind the trees. She was amazed by his beauty. She wished she could call out to him. But of course, she could not.

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Narcissus had become lost. He heard the nymph’s soft footsteps. So he shouted, “Who’s here?” Echo answered, “Here!” Narcissus called, “Come to me!” Echo answered, “Come to me!” “Let us join one another!” cried Narcissus. And Echo answered back the same. Her heart was full of love! She rushed out from her hiding place. She threw her arms around the startled young man. It did not take him long to understand what had happened. Narcissus had seen others fall in love with him. He had never known love himself. So he was never very kind to those who loved him. He roughly pulled away from the nymph. He said, “I should rather die than for you to have me!” She wanted him to talk with her. But all she could say was a sorrowful “Have me!” “Have her” he would not. Echo went sadly away. She crept into valleys and caves. There she could hide her sadness. Narcissus’s cruelty did not go unnoticed. Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, had always liked Echo. She soon learned the nymph’s fate. She knew a way that Narcissus would feel the same kind of unreturned love that others had felt. Narcissus came to a cool, smooth pool. He sat by the edge to drink. And there he saw his own reflection. Instantly, he fell in love! He thought he was seeing a water sprite. He lay down by the pool. He reached out to touch the figure in the water. The figure reached out, too. But when he touched the pool, the image disappeared! “Why do you run away? Surely my face is not ugly to you. Even the nymphs have loved me. And you, yourself, reach out for me when I reach for you!” he cried. But try as he might, he could never touch the lovely figure in the water. He refused to leave, though. The nymphs came and tried to lure him away. Even Echo came and sat by his side. She gave him food. But he would not eat. He would just stare into the pool. Narcissus grew thin and weak. He died there on the banks of the pool. The nymphs went to place his corpse on a funeral pyre. But they could not find it. In its place was a purple and white flower. It hung its head over the face of the water. Echo went back to her wandering, until she too faded away. All that was left was her voice. It repeated back whatever she heard. In this way, even in her death Echo always got the last word!

Element Focus: Plot In what ways does Psyche’s conflict with Venus mirror the conflicts that are central to other stories that you have heard? Are the conflicts resolved in similar ways?

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Echo and Narcissus retold by Stephanie Paris

Long ago in Greece, there lived a handsome young man. He was named Narcissus. He was truly a sight to behold! He had perfect teeth. He had perfect hair. And his movements were so graceful that he seemed to flow like water rather than run like a human. Broken hearts followed wherever he passed. But Narcissus was not interested in love or romance. He cared nothing for his many suitors. He unfeelingly turned them all away without an understanding word. Nearby, there lived another lovely creature. Her name was Echo. She was a forest nymph. She and the other nymphs walked the woods. They cared for the plants, played games, and chatted happily with the creatures of the woods. Unfortunately, Echo liked chatting a bit too much. She was known for always talking slightly too long. And she never let anyone else have the final word! Zeus, the king of the gods, knew of Echo’s gift for conversation. He decided it could be put to good use. Zeus convinced Echo to serve as his lookout. He liked to come and pass the time with many of the pretty nymphs. But his wife, Hera, was jealous. So whenever Hera came looking for Zeus in the woods, Echo would greet the goddess. She would make small talk and flatter Hera. This would give Zeus and the other nymphs time to escape. The plan worked well for quite a while. But Hera grew suspicious. One day, the goddess figured out the trickery. As you might imagine, that was not a good day for poor Echo. Hera was furious! She said, “Well, since you are so fond of talking, I know a punishment that will fit. From this moment forward, you will never be allowed to speak unless you are first spoken to!” Hera cursed Echo to have no voice. Echo would still have the ability to repeat whatever was spoken to her. Silently, Echo wandered the woods and meadows. She listened for the voices of others so that she might be able to use her own. One day, she happened to see Narcissus. She fell instantly in love! She followed him secretly through the woods. She was entranced by his beauty and wished she could call out to him. But she could not.

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Narcissus had become separated from his friends. Hearing the nymph’s soft footsteps, he shouted, “Who’s here?” Echo answered, “Here!” Narcissus called, “Come to me!” and Echo answered eagerly, “Come to me!” “Let us join one another!” cried Narcissus. Echo answered back the same. Her heart was full of love! She rushed out from her hiding place and threw her arms around the man. It did not take him long to understand what had happened. Narcissus had seen others fall in love with him. But maybe because he had never known love himself, he was never very kind to those who loved him. He roughly pulled away from the nymph. He said, “I should rather die than for you to have me!” Echo wanted to beg him to stay. But what came out was just a sorrowful, “Have me!” Echo went sadly away. She crept into valleys and caves where she could hide. Narcissus’s cruelty did not go unnoticed. Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, had always liked Echo. She soon learned the nymph’s fate. And she heard the tales of others who had loved Narcissus. She planned a way that Narcissus would feel the same kind of unreturned love that others had felt for him. Shortly after that, Narcissus came to a cool, smooth pool. He sat by the edge to drink. And there he spied his own reflection. Instantly, he fell in love! He lay down by the pool. He reached out to touch the figure in the water. The figure reached out, too. But when he touched the pool, the image disappeared! “Why, Beautiful One, do you run away? Surely my face is not ugly to you. Even the nymphs have loved me.” he cried. Try as he might, he could never touch the lovely figure in the water. He refused to leave, though. The nymphs came and tried to lure him away. Even Echo came and sat by his side. She offered him food. But he would not eat or drink. He would only stare as if in a trance at the object of his love. Narcissus grew thin and weak. He died there on the banks of the pool from the grief he had felt so keenly. When the nymphs went to place his corpse on a funeral pyre, they could not find it. In its place was a purple and white flower. Echo went back to her wandering, until she too faded away. All that was left was her voice, repeating back whatever she heard. In this way, even in her death Echo always got the last word!

Element Focus: Plot How might the story have ended differently if Narcissus had been kind to Echo?

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Echo and Narcissus retold by Stephanie Paris

Long ago in Greece, there lived a handsome young man named Narcissus. He was truly a sight to behold! He had perfect teeth, perfect hair, and movements so graceful that he seemed to flow like water rather than run like a human. Narcissus was not interested in love or romance. He cared nothing for his many suitors and callously rebuffed every advance. Nearby, there dwelt another lovely creature. Her name was Echo, and she was a forest nymph. She and the other nymphs walked the woods caring for the plants, playing games, and chatting happily with the creatures of the woods. Unfortunately, Echo liked chatting a bit too much. She was known for always talking slightly too long and never letting anyone else have the final word! Zeus, the king of the gods, was aware of Echo’s gift for conversation and decided it could be put to good use. He convinced Echo to serve as his lookout. He liked to come and pass the time with many of the pretty nymphs, but his wife, Hera, was jealous. So whenever Hera came looking for Zeus in the woods, Echo would greet the goddess and engage her in small talk. She would flatter Hera and walk her a safe distance away, giving Zeus and the other nymphs time to escape. This worked well for quite a while, but Hera grew suspicious. One day, the goddess figured out the trickery. As you might imagine, that was not a good day for poor Echo. Hera was furious! She said, “Well, since you are so fond of talking, I know a punishment that will fit. From this moment forward, you will never be allowed to speak unless you are first spoken to!” Hera cursed Echo to have no voice except the ability to repeat whatever was spoken to her. Silently, Echo wandered the woods and meadows listening for the voices of others so that she might be able to use her own. One day on her travels, she happened to spy Narcissus. She fell instantly in love! She followed him secretly through the woods as he hunted stags. She watched him from behind the trees, entranced by his beauty and wishing she could call out to him. But of course, she could not.

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Narcissus had become separated from his companions. Hearing the nymph’s soft footsteps, he shouted, “Who’s here?” Echo answered, “Here!” Narcissus called, “Come to me!” and Echo answered eagerly, “Come to me!” “Let us join one another!” cried Narcissus. And Echo answered back the same, her heart full of love! She rushed out from her hiding place and threw her arms around the young man. It did not take him long to understand what had happened. Narcissus had seen others fall in love with him just as suddenly. Perhaps because he had never known love himself, he was never very kind to those who loved him. He pulled away from the enthralled nymph, saying, “I should rather die than for you to have me!” Echo wanted to beg him to stay and talk with her, but what came out was just a sorrowful, “Have me!” Echo withdrew into the valleys and caves where she could hide. Narcissus’s cruelty did not go unnoticed, however. Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, had always been fond of Echo. Then she learned the nymph’s fate and heard the tales of others who had loved Narcissus. She planned a way that Narcissus would experience the same kind of unreturned love that others had felt for him. So the next time that Narcissus came to a cool, smooth pool to drink, he spied his own reflection. Instantly, he fell in love, thinking he was viewing some magical water sprite. He lay down by the pool and reached out to touch the figure in the water. The figure reached out too, but when he touched the pool, the image disappeared! “Why, Beautiful One, do you shun me? Surely my face does not repel you. Even the nymphs have loved me. You, yourself, reach out for me when I reach for you!” he cried. But, try as he might, he could never touch the enchanting figure in the water. He refused to leave, though. Even Echo came and sat by his side. She offered him food, but he would not eat. He would only stare at the object of his love. Eventually, Narcissus grew thin and weak. He died on the banks of the pool from the grief he had felt so keenly. When the nymphs went to place his corpse on a funeral pyre, they could not find it. In its place was a purple and white flower. Echo went back to her wandering, until she too faded away. All that was left was her voice, repeating back whatever she heard. In this way, even in her death Echo always got the last word!

Element Focus: Plot Explain how Echo and Narcissus might have altered their fates by changing their actions early in the story.

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Echo and Narcissus retold by Stephanie Paris

Long ago in Greece, there lived a handsome young man named Narcissus. He was truly a sight to behold with his perfect teeth, perfect hair, and movements so graceful that he seemed to flow like water rather than run like a human. But Narcissus was not interested in love or romance. Indeed, he cared nothing for his many suitors and callously rebuffed every advance. Nearby, there dwelt another lovely creature. Her name was Echo, and she was a forest nymph. She and the other nymphs walked the woods caring for the plants, playing games, and chatting happily with the creatures of the woods. Unfortunately, Echo liked chatting a bit too much and was known for always talking slightly too long and never letting anyone else have the final word! Zeus, the king of the gods, was aware of Echo’s gift for conversation and decided it could be leveraged for his own purposes. He convinced Echo to serve as his lookout whenever he was passing the time with any of the other pretty nymphs. So whenever Hera, Zeus’s jealous wife, came looking for the king in the woods, Echo would greet the goddess and engage her in small talk. She would flatter Hera and walk her a safe distance away, giving Zeus and the other nymphs time to escape. This worked well for quite a while, but Hera grew suspicious, and one day, the goddess figured out the trickery. As you might imagine, that was not a good day for poor Echo! Hera furiously declared, “Well, since you are so fond of talking, I know a punishment that will fit. From this moment forward, you will never be allowed to speak unless you are first spoken to!” Hera cursed Echo to have no voice except the ability to repeat whatever was spoken to her. Silently, Echo wandered the woods and meadows listening for the voices of others so that she might be able to use her own. One day on her travels, she happened to spy Narcissus, and she fell instantly in love! She followed him secretly through the woods as he hunted stags. She watched him from behind trees, entranced by his beauty and wishing she could call out to him—but of course, she could not.

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Narcissus had become separated from his companions, and hearing the nymph’s soft footsteps, he shouted, “Who’s here?” Echo answered, “Here!” Narcissus called, “Come to me!” and lovesick Echo answered eagerly, “Come to me!” “Let us join one another!” cried Narcissus. And Echo answered back the same, her heart aching with desire. She rushed out from her hiding place and threw her arms enthusiastically around the startled young man. It did not take long for the youth to understand what had happened, for Narcissus had seen others fall in love with him. However, perhaps because he had never known love himself, he was never very kind to those who loved him. He roughly pulled away from the nymph, saying bitterly, “I should rather die than for you to have me!” Echo wanted to beg him to stay, but what came out was just a sorrowful, “Have me!” Echo withdrew into the valleys and caves where she could hide. Narcissus’s cruelty did not go unnoticed, however. Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, learned the nymph’s fate and heard the tales of others who had loved Narcissus. She decided that enough was enough! She planned a way that Narcissus would experience the same kind of unrequited love that others had felt for him. Thus, the next time that Narcissus came to a cool, smooth pool to drink, he spied his own reflection in the water. Because of the goddess’s magic, he fell instantly in love. He lay down by the pool and reached out to touch the figure in the water. The figure reached out, but as soon as he touched the pool, the image disappeared! “Why, Beautiful One, do you shun me? Surely my face does not repel you, for even the nymphs have loved me. You reach out for me when I reach for you!” he cried. The nymphs came and tried to lure him away, and even Echo tried. She offered him food, but he would not eat. He would only stare at the object of his love. Eventually, Narcissus grew thin and weak. He died on the banks of the pool from the grief he had felt so keenly. When the nymphs went to place his corpse on a funeral pyre, they could not find it. In its place was a purple and white flower. Echo went back to her wandering, until she too faded away. All that was left was her voice, repeating back whatever she heard. In this way, even in her death Echo always got the last word!

Element Focus: Plot Describe several ways that Echo and Narcissus might have altered their fates by behaving differently.

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Midas and the Golden Touch retold by Stephanie Paris

Dionysus was the Greek god of celebration. He was the god of wine, too. He lived life as a party! He and his followers would move from place to place. They would feast. They would drink wine. They would play music. And they would share good cheer with everyone they met. One of the god’s closest friends was an old satyr. His name was Silenus. Silenus had been Dionysus’s teacher. He had been the god’s foster father. They were very close. But the moving party was not organized. People would come and go. There was confusion. And sometimes, people would get lost. Usually, this did not bother the wild god. But then, Silenus went missing. Dionysus was upset! In Phrygia, there lived a king. He was named Midas. He was a good king to his people. And his kingdom did well. But Midas had one flaw. He liked wealth too much. Midas only loved one thing more than his gold. It was his young daughter. She was his joy! But mostly, he thought about his wealth. His palace was full. Every inch was decorated. There were many jewels. There was art. And there were fine fabrics covering everything. But Midas never felt it was enough. It nagged at the back of his mind. He wanted more. Still, the good king enjoyed what he had. He was happy. And he was grateful. He knew that life without his lovely palace or his cheerful daughter would be sad! He was lucky to have them both. Silenus wandered into the famous rose gardens of the palace. Midas welcomed the satyr. He invited him to stay. The king was an excellent host. He had food. He had entertainment. But he made sure there was quiet time, too. This was something the old satyr rarely got to have. It is not easy to find peace when you are with the party god! Ten days passed. Then Midas found Dionysus. He took Silenus back. Dionysus was relieved! And he was very pleased. He liked the way Midas had treated Silenus. So the god offered Midas a gift. He would fulfill any one wish. “Name your wish. I shall grant it!” he told the king. Midas did not have to be asked twice. He said, “My life is quite full! But there is always room for more wealth. I wish that all I touch will turn to gold!”

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“Done!” cried the happy god. “Go back to your castle. Tomorrow when you wake up, it shall be as you have asked.” So Midas went home. He slept in his bed. But it was hard to rest. He was too excited! The next morning, he woke early. He got up. He walked to the door of his room. He reached for the handle. He watched nervously. He was not sure what to expect. But the god was as good as his word. The king’s fingers brushed the wooden handle. It instantly changed into brilliant gold! The king was happy. He touched everything he saw. The walls turned golden. The vases turned golden. The statues turned golden. And even the flowers turned to gold at the king’s touch! Then Midas sat down to his meal. It was then that he saw that there might be a problem. He reached for a roll. The bread turned to gold! Then he touched his cup to his lips. The cup turned to heavy gold. Then he felt the water crystallize. The king’s heart sank. He knew that if things went on this way, he would surely starve. But the worst was yet to come. The king’s young daughter had run softly into the room. Before he could stop her, she had flung herself into his lap. She kissed his cheek. The girl, too, was turned immediately to gold! Poor King Midas was in a panic. His gift had become a curse! He ordered that a cart be brought. His daughter was gently put upon it. He also ordered that no one else come within three meters of the king himself. The rest of the golden items were packed up. Then the king and his servants walked all the way back to Dionysus. The king threw himself upon the ground. He begged the god to take back the gift that he had so recently given. Dionysus had no desire to punish King Midas. He told the king to go to the river Pactolus. He said the king should wash himself and the things that had been affected in the waters there. Midas did as he was told. He was astonished to notice the gold flowing out of his hands and into the river! When he washed his daughter, the gold washed off of her, too. The king was overjoyed. The gold settled in the sands of the river and flowed down to the country of Lydia. It brought prosperity to the ancient kingdom. As for Midas, he returned to his own kingdom a wiser man. From that day forward, he turned his back on material wealth. He led his people until the end of his days.

Element Focus: Plot What hints are there that King Midas might have a problem because of his greed?

104

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Midas and the Golden Touch retold by Stephanie Paris

Dionysus was the Greek god of celebration and winemaking. He lived life as a party! He and his followers would move around the lands. They would feast. They would drink wine. They would play music and share good cheer with all they encountered. Among the god’s closest advisers was an elderly satyr. His name was Silenus. Silenus had been Dionysus’s teacher. He had been like the god’s foster father since his childhood. The two of them were very close. But moving with Dionysus was not an organized event. And sometimes, those among the group would become lost for a time. Usually, this did not bother the wild god. But when Silenus went missing, Dionysus became upset! Now in the land of Phrygia, there lived a king named Midas. He was a good king to his people. And his kingdom thrived. But Midas had one flaw. He valued wealth a bit too much. In fact, the only thing Midas loved more than his gold was his young daughter. He doted upon her! But mostly, he focused on his wealth. His palace was ornately carved. Every inch was decorated. There were many jewels. There were murals. And there were fine fabrics covering everything. But Midas never felt that the splendid riches were quite enough. It nagged at the back of his mind. He wanted to do more. He wanted to add to the luxury that surrounded him. Still, the good king enjoyed the objects that filled his halls. He was happy and grateful. He believed that life without his lovely palace or his cheerful daughter would be bleak indeed! He knew he was lucky to have them both. It was into this kingdom that the lost Silenus wandered. He found himself in the famous rose gardens that encircled Midas’s palace. Midas welcomed the satyr and invited him to stay. The king was an excellent host! He provided food and entertainment. But he arranged for quiet time, too. This was something the elderly satyr rarely enjoyed. It was difficult to find peace in the company of his raucous god! After 10 days, Midas found Dionysus’s party. He returned Silenus to the god. Dionysus was relieved to see his friend. He was pleased by the treatment Silenus had received. So he offered Midas a gift: He would fulfill any one wish. “Name your boon and I shall grant it!” he told the king. Midas did not have to be asked twice. He said, “My life is quite full! But there is always room for more wealth. I wish that all I touch will turn to gold!”

© Shell Education

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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“Done!” cried the happy god. “Go back to your castle. Tomorrow when you awaken, it shall be as you have asked.” So Midas went home. He slept in his bed. However, it was hard for him to rest. He was too excited! The next morning, he awoke early. He got up and walked to the door of his chamber. As he reached for the handle, he watched nervously. He was unsure what to expect. But the generous god was as good as his word. The king’s fingers brushed the wooden handle. It instantly changed into the most shining and lustrous gold! The king was giddy with joy. On his way to the dining room he touched everything he could see. The walls turned golden. The vases and statues turned golden. And even the flowers that were put out as decorations in the hallway turned to gold at the king’s touch! It was not until he sat down to his meal that the king began to see that there might be a problem with his wish. As he reached for a roll, the bread, too, turned to gold. Then he touched his goblet to his lips. Not only did the cup turn to heavy gold, but he also felt the liquid crystallize against his lips. But the worst was yet to come. Unknown to the king, his young daughter had run softly into the room as he lamented his poor choice. Before he could stop her, she had flung herself into his lap and kissed his cheek. The girl turned to gold! Poor King Midas was in a panic. His gift had become a curse! He ordered that a cart be brought. His daughter was gently laid upon it. He also ordered that no one else come within three meters of the king himself. Then the king and his servants walked all the way back to where Dionysus had stopped for the evening. The king threw himself upon the ground. He begged the god to take back the gift. Dionysus had no desire to punish King Midas. He told the king to go to the river Pactolus. He said the king should wash himself and the things that had been affected in the waters there. Midas did as he was told. He was astonished to notice the gold flowing out of his hands and into the river! When he washed his daughter, the gold washed off of her, too. The king was overjoyed. The gold settled in the sands of the river and flowed down to the country of Lydia. It brought prosperity to the ancient kingdom. As for Midas, he returned to his own kingdom a wiser man. From that day forward, he turned his back on material wealth. He led his people until the end of his days.

Element Focus: Plot What hints does the author give in the second paragraph about what fate may befall King Midas?

106

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Midas and the Golden Touch retold by Stephanie Paris

Dionysus was the Greek god of revelry and winemaking. He lived life as a traveling party! He and his followers would move around the lands. They would feast, drink wine, play music, and share good cheer with all they encountered. Among the god’s closest advisers was an elderly satyr by the name of Silenus. Silenus had been Dionysus’s teacher. He had also been the god’s foster father since he had been very young, and the two of them remained quite close. But traveling with Dionysus was not an organized event. People would come and go, and there was often confusion. Sometimes, those among the group would become lost for a time. Usually, this was of little concern to the wild god, but when Silenus went missing, Dionysus became distraught! Now it so happened that at this time in the land of Phrygia, there lived a king by the name of Midas. He was a good king to his people, and the kingdom thrived around him. But the king had one flaw. He valued wealth a bit too much. In fact, the only thing Midas loved more than his wealth was his young daughter. He doted upon her! But mostly, he focused on his wealth. His palace was ornately carved. Every inch was decorated with jewels and murals and fine fabrics. But Midas never felt that the splendid riches were quite enough. It nagged at the back of his mind that there should be something more he could do. Still, in general, King Midas enjoyed the objects that filled his halls. He counted himself a happy monarch and believed that life without his lovely palace or his cheerful daughter would be bleak indeed! He considered himself lucky to have the things that he did. The lost Silenus wandered into the famous rose gardens that encircled Midas’s palace. So, Midas welcomed the satyr and invited him to stay. The king was an excellent host! He provided food and entertainment. But he also arranged for quiet time. After 10 days, Midas found Dionysus’s party and returned Silenus to the god’s entourage. The god was relieved to see his friend. And he was very pleased by the treatment Silenus had received. So he offered Midas any one wish that he might grant. “Name your boon, and I shall grant it!” he told the king. Midas did not have to be asked twice. He replied, “My life is quite full! But there is always room for more wealth. I wish that all I touch will turn to gold!”

© Shell Education

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“Done!” cried the jovial god. “Go back to your castle, and tomorrow when you awake, it shall be as you have requested.” So Midas went home and slept in his bed. Though, truth be told, it was difficult for him to sleep from the excitement! The next morning he awoke early and walked to the door of his chamber. As he reached for the handle he watched nervously, unsure what to expect. But the generous god was as good as his word, and as the king’s fingers brushed the wooden handle, it instantly changed into the most shining and lustrous gold! The king was giddy with joy. On his way to the dining room he touched everything he could see! The walls turned golden, the vases and statues turned golden, and even the flowers that were put out as decorations in the hallway turned to gold at the king’s touch! It was not until he sat down to his meal that the king began to see that there might be a problem with his wish. As he reached for a roll, the bread, too, turned to gold. And as he touched his goblet to his lips, not only did the cup turn to heavy gold but he also felt the liquid crystallize against his lips. But the worst was yet to come. Unknown to the king, his young daughter had run softly into the room as he lamented his poor choice. Before he could stop her, she had flung herself into his lap and kissed his cheek. The girl turned to gold! Poor King Midas was in a panic. His gift had become a curse! He ordered that a cart be brought and his daughter gently placed upon it. He also ordered that no one else come within three meters of the king himself. The king and his servants walked all the way back to where Dionysus and his party had stopped for the evening. There, the king threw himself upon the ground and begged the god to take back the gift. Dionysus had no desire to punish King Midas. The god instructed the king to go to the river Pactolus and wash himself and the things that had been affected in the waters there. Midas did as he was told, and was astonished to notice the gold flowing out of his hands and into the river. When he washed his daughter, the gold washed off of her, as well. The king was overjoyed. The gold settled in the sands of the river and flowed down to the country of Lydia, bringing prosperity to the ancient kingdom. As for Midas, he returned to his own kingdom a wiser man. From that day forward, he turned his back on material wealth. He led his people until the end of his days.

Element Focus: Plot In what ways did the author foreshadow Midas’s curse in the second paragraph?

108

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Midas and the Golden Touch retold by Stephanie Paris

Dionysus, the Greek god of revelry and winemaking, lived life as a traveling party! He and his followers would move around the lands, feasting, drinking wine, playing music, and sharing good cheer with all they encountered. Among the god’s closest advisers was an elderly satyr by the name of Silenus. Silenus had been Dionysus’s teacher and foster father since he had been very young, and the two of them remained quite close. But as you might imagine, traveling with Dionysus was not an organized event. People would come and go, there was often confusion, and sometimes those among the group would become lost for a time. Usually, this was of little concern to the wild god, but when Silenus went missing, Dionysus became distraught! Now it so happened that at this time in the land of Phrygia, there lived a king by the name of Midas. He was a good king to his people, and the kingdom thrived around him. But the king had one flaw in that he valued wealth a bit too much. In fact, the only thing Midas loved more than his wealth was his young daughter, upon whom he doted incessantly! His palace was ornately carved, and every inch was decorated with jewels and murals and rich fabrics. It nagged at the back of his mind that there should be something additional he could do to add to the luxury that surrounded him. Still, in general, King Midas enjoyed the objects that filled his halls and considered himself to be a happy monarch. He believed that life without his lovely palace or his cheerful daughter would be bleak indeed, and counted himself lucky to have them both. When Silenus wandered into the rose gardens that encircled his palace, Midas welcomed the satyr and invited him to stay. The king was an excellent host, providing food and entertainment and also quiet time. After 10 days, Midas located the current stopping place of Dionysus’s party and returned Silenus to the god’s entourage. The grateful god was relieved to see his friend and pleased by the treatment Silenus had received. So he offered Midas any one wish that he might grant. “Name your boon, and I shall grant it!” he told the king. Midas did not have to be asked twice. He instantly replied, “My life is quite full, but there is always room for more wealth. I wish that all I touch will turn to gold!”

© Shell Education

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“Done!” cried the jovial god. “Go back to your castle, and tomorrow when you awake, it shall be as you have requested.” So Midas went home and slept in his bed. Though, truth be told, it was difficult for him to sleep from the excitement! The next morning, he awoke early and walked to the door of his chamber. As he reached for the handle, he watched nervously, unsure what to expect. But the generous god was as good as his word, and as the king’s fingers brushed the wooden handle, it instantly changed into the most shining and lustrous gold! The king was giddy with joy. On his way to the dining room, he touched everything he could see! The walls turned golden, the vases and statues turned golden, and even the flowers that were put out as decorations in the hallway turned to gold at the king’s touch! It was not until he sat down to his meal that the king began to see that there might be a problem with his wish. As he reached for a roll, the bread, too, turned to gold. And as he touched his goblet to his lips, not only did the cup turn to heavy gold, but he felt the liquid crystallize against his lips. But the worst was yet to come. Unknown to the king, his young daughter had run softly into the room as he lamented his poor choice. Before he could stop her, she had flung herself into his lap and kissed his cheek. The girl turned to gold! Poor King Midas was in a panic. His gift had become a curse! He ordered that a cart be brought and his daughter gently laid upon it. He also ordered that no one else come within three meters of the king himself. The rest of the golden items were also packed up, and the king and his servants walked to where Dionysus and his party had stopped. The king threw himself upon the ground and begged the god to take back the gift. Dionysus had no desire to punish King Midas. The god instructed the king to go to the river Pactolus and wash himself and the things that had been affected in the waters there. Midas did as he was told, and was astonished to notice the gold flowing out of his hands and into the river. When he washed his daughter, the gold washed off of her, as well. The king was overjoyed. The gold from the king settled in the sands of the river and flowed down to the country of Lydia, bringing prosperity to the ancient kingdom. As for Midas, he returned to his own kingdom a wiser man. From that day forward, he turned his back on material wealth. He led his people until the end of his days.

Element Focus: Plot In what ways did the author foreshadow Midas’s curse in the second paragraph?

110

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Orpheus and Eurydice retold by Stephanie Paris

Once there lived a famous musician. He was named Orpheus. He could play any instrument. But his favorite thing was to play upon a small harp. And he would sing. He sang songs that moved people’s emotions. Audiences came from far and near. Orpheus gave concerts. Even the gods on Olympus would stop and listen! Normal people were helpless to resist the music. When Orpheus sang of joy, audiences felt there could be nothing wrong in the world. When he sang of sorrow, the entire crowd would weep. And when he sang of love...ah! Every heart was full! One day Orpheus met a woman. She was called Eurydice. He thought she was very beautiful. They fell deeply in love. They were lucky because both families gave their blessings. So it was arranged that they should be married. Their wedding day was filled with music. People laughed. They were happy! But then, Eurydice went into a meadow. There, she was bitten in the heel by a snake. She quickly died. Her spirit went down to the Underworld. And sad Orpheus was a widower. It happened on his wedding day. His grief was endless. He tried to find comfort. He played his music. But all he could sing about was death. He sang of the pain. He sang about his loss. He soon decided that he must go into the Underworld. He would speak with Hades himself.

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Orpheus began the difficult journey. He took nothing but his favorite harp. He went deep into the Earth. At last, he found a palace. This was home to the Lord and Lady of Death. They were Hades and Persephone. The god and goddess agreed to see him. This was surprising because they did not see living people very often! Orpheus greeted them. Then he took out his harp. He began to play. He sang. He thought of love and loss. The power of his song soon moved the gentle queen. Seeing his wife’s reaction, Hades listened more. His hardened heart was touched. He was moved by the honest beauty of Orpheus’s song. A single tear came to the corner of Hades’s eye. He said, “Enough! You may take your wife back with you. But there is one condition. You must not look back at her. You may not see her again until you are fully in the realm of the living. If you do, she will be truly dead. I will not release her again.” With that, Hades had Eurydice brought to him. The god told Orpheus to head for the surface. Eurydice would follow. Up they climbed. They went toward the world of light and life. The darkness turned gray. Full light was just ahead of them! But just then, Orpheus forgot the warnings. He was overjoyed to be so close. He glanced over his shoulder. He wanted to be sure that his wife was still with him. He knew instantly what he had done. But it was too late! Eurydice was pulled back into the Underworld. Orpheus tried to follow. But the way was shut to him. He could not go to the place of the dead while he was still living. From that day on, Orpheus wandered through the woods and the wild lands. He sang only for the rocks and the trees and the rivers. Eventually, he died. His spirit was reunited with his lost Eurydice. The Muses found his body. They buried the tragic musician in a tomb at the base of Mt. Olympus. It is said that the birds there still sing more sweetly than at any other place on Earth.

Element Focus: Plot How do you know that Orpheus loved Eurydice more than anything?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Orpheus and Eurydice retold by Stephanie Paris

Once, there lived a famous musician named Orpheus. He was skilled with all instruments. But his favorite thing was to play upon a small harp and sing. He sang songs that would stir the souls of all who could hear. Audiences came from far and near. And when Orpheus gave a concert, even the gods on Olympus would stop and listen! Mere mortals could not resist the sway of his music. When Orpheus sang of joy, audiences felt there could be nothing wrong in the world. When he sang of sorrow, the entire crowd would weep. And when he sang of love...ah! Every heart was full! One day Orpheus met a woman. She was called Eurydice. To his eyes, her beauty was greater than that of all others. They fell deeply in love. They were lucky enough to receive the blessings of both families. So it was soon arranged that they should be married. Their wedding day was filled with music and laughter. But soon after the ceremony, Eurydice went into a meadow with her attendants. There, she was bitten in the heel by a serpent. She quickly died. Her spirit passed directly down to the Underworld. And wretched Orpheus was a widower on the very day he had been wed. The depths of his grief knew no bounds. He tried to console himself in music. But he found that all he could sing about was death. He sang of the pain of his soul and the blackness of his loss. He soon decided that the only solution was to go into the Underworld and speak with Hades himself.

© Shell Education

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So taking nothing but his favorite harp, Orpheus began the difficult journey. He traveled deep into the center of the Earth. At last, he found the palace of the Lord and Lady of Death. Hades and his bride, Persephone, agreed to see him. This was surprising because they rarely saw people from among the living! After exchanging the proper greetings, Orpheus took out his harp. He began to play and sing. He was inspired by both love and loss. The power of his song soon moved the gentle Persephone. Seeing his wife’s reaction, Hades listened further. Soon, even his stoic heart was touched by the honest beauty of Orpheus’s musical plea. A single tear came to the corner of Hades’s eye. He said, “Enough! You may take your wife back with you to the surface. But there is one condition. You must not look back at her until you are fully in the realm of the living world once more. If you do, she will be truly dead, and I will not release her again.” With that, Hades had Eurydice brought to him. The god directed Orpheus to head for the surface world. Eurydice would follow. Up they climbed, toward the world of light and life. The darkness turned gray. Full light was just ahead of them! But at that moment, Orpheus forgot the warnings. He was so overjoyed to be so close that he glanced over his shoulder. He wanted to see that Eurydice was still with him. Immediately, he knew what he had done. But it was too late! Eurydice was pulled back into the gloom of the Underworld. Orpheus tried to follow. But the way was shut to him. He could not return to the realm of the dead while he was still living. From that day forward, Orpheus wandered through the woods and the wild lands. He sang only for the rocks and the trees and the rivers. Eventually, he died. His spirit was reunited with his lost Eurydice. The Muses found his body. They buried the tragic musician in a tomb at the base of Mt. Olympus. It is said that the birds there still sing more sweetly than at any other place on Earth.

Element Focus: Plot How did Eurydice’s death affect Orpheus’s life?

114

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© Shell Education

Orpheus and Eurydice retold by Stephanie Paris

Once there lived a famous musician named Orpheus. He was skilled with all instruments, but his favorite thing was to play upon a small harp and sing songs that would stir the souls of all who could hear. Audiences came from far and near. And when Orpheus gave a concert, even the gods on Olympus would stop and listen if they had no other pressing matters demanding their attention. Mere mortals could not resist the sway of his music. When Orpheus sang of joy, audiences felt there could be nothing wrong in the world. When he sang of sorrow, the entire crowd would weep. And when he sang of love...ah! Every heart was full! Now, it came to pass that one day Orpheus met a woman. She was called Eurydice, and to his eyes, her beauty surpassed that of all others. They fell deeply in love. As they were lucky enough to receive the blessings of both families, it was soon arranged that they should be married! Their wedding day was filled with music and laughter. But soon after the ceremony, Eurydice went into a meadow with her attendants. There, she was bitten in the heel by a serpent and promptly died. Her spirit passed directly down to the Underworld, and wretched Orpheus was a widower on the very day he had been wed. The depths of his grief knew no bounds. He tried to console himself in music, but found that all he could sing about was the pain of his soul and the blackness of his loss. He soon decided that the only solution was to go into the Underworld and speak with Hades himself.

© Shell Education

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115

So taking nothing but his favorite harp, Orpheus began the arduous journey. He traveled deep into the center of the Earth until, at last, he found the palace of the Lord and Lady of Death. Hades and his bride, Persephone, agreed to see him. This was surprising enough as they rarely received visitors from among the living! After exchanging the proper greetings, Orpheus took out his harp and began to play and sing. He was inspired by both love and loss, and the power of his song soon moved the gentle Persephone. Seeing his wife’s reaction, Hades listened further, and soon even his stoic heart was touched by the honest beauty of Orpheus’s musical plea. A single tear came to the corner of Hades’s eye, and he said, “Enough! You may take your wife back with you to the surface. But there is one condition. You must not look back at her until you are fully in the realm of the living world once more. If you do, she will be truly dead, and I will not release her again.” With that, Hades had Eurydice brought to him and directed Orpheus to head for the surface world. Eurydice would follow. Up they climbed, toward the world of light and life. The darkness turned gray, and full light was just ahead of them! But at that moment, Orpheus forgot the warnings. He was so overjoyed to be so close that he glanced over his shoulder to see that Eurydice was still with him. With horror, he immediately realized what he had done, but it was too late! Eurydice was pulled back into the gloom of the Underworld. Orpheus tried to follow, but the way was shut to him. He could not return to the realm of the dead while he was still living. From that day forward, Orpheus wandered through the woods and the wild lands, singing only for the rocks and the trees and the rivers. Eventually, he died, of course, and his spirit was reunited with his lost Eurydice. The Muses found the tragic musician’s body and buried him in a tomb at the base of Mt. Olympus. It is said that the birds there still sing more sweetly than at any other place on Earth.

Element Focus: Plot In what ways does Eurydice’s death change the path of Orpheus’s life?

116

#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Orpheus and Eurydice retold by Stephanie Paris

Once long ago in the land of Greece, there lived a famous musician named Orpheus who was skilled with instruments of every kind. He delighted most in playing upon a lyre and singing ballads to stir the souls of all who could hear. Audiences came from far and near when Orpheus performed a concert, and even the gods on Olympus would stop and listen if they had no more pressing matters demanding their attention. Mere mortals could not resist the sway of Orpheus’s music. Indeed, when Orpheus sang of joy, audiences felt there could be nothing amiss in all the world, and when he sang of sorrow, the entire crowd would weep as one. But when he sang of love...ah! Every heart was full! Now, it came to pass that one day Orpheus met a woman called Eurydice. To his enamored eyes, her beauty surpassed that of all others, and it was clear that she felt the same way about him. The two of them fell deeply and passionately in love. As they were lucky enough to receive the blessings of both families, it was soon arranged that they should be married! Their wedding day was filled with music, joy, and laughter. But soon after the ceremony, Eurydice went frolicking into a meadow with her attendants. There, she tripped upon a poisonous serpent that had been lurking in the tall grass, was bit upon the heel, and promptly died. Her mortal spirit passed directly down to the Underworld, and wretched Orpheus was a widower on the very day he had been wed. The depth of his despair was without any foreseeable end. He sought solace in his music, which had never failed him before. But he discovered that he was confined to expressing the pain of his soul and the blackness of his loss. He soon decided that the only solution was to go into the Underworld and speak with Hades himself. © Shell Education

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So taking nothing but his favorite harp, Orpheus began the arduous journey. He traveled deep into the center of the Earth until, at last, he found the palace of the Lord and Lady of Death. Hades and his bride, Persephone, agreed to see him, which was surprising as they rarely received visitors from among the living! After exchanging the proper greetings, Orpheus took out his harp and began to play and sing. He was inspired by both love and loss, and the power of his song soon moved the gentle Persephone. Seeing his wife’s reaction, Hades listened further, and soon even his stoic heart was touched by the honest beauty of Orpheus’s musical plea. A single tear came to the corner of Hades’s eye, and he said, “Enough! You may take your wife back with you to the surface. But there is one condition. You must not look back at her until you are fully in the realm of the living world once more. If you do, she will be truly dead, and I will not release her again.” With that, Hades had Eurydice brought to him and directed Orpheus to head for the surface world. Eurydice would follow. Up they climbed, creeping slowly toward the world of light and life. Gradually, the darkness turned gray, and after a time, full light glowed just ahead of them! But at that moment, Orpheus forgot the warnings that Hades had given. Orpheus was so overjoyed to be this close to their goal that he glanced over his shoulder to reassure himself that Eurydice was still with him. With horror, he immediately realized what he had done, but it was too late! Eurydice was pulled back into the gloom of the Underworld. Orpheus tried to follow, but the way was shut to him. He was barred from returning to the realm of the dead while he was still living. From that day forward, Orpheus wandered through the woods and the wild lands, singing only for the rocks and the trees and the rivers. Eventually, he did die, of course, and his spirit was reunited with his lost Eurydice. The Muses found the tragic musician’s body and buried him in a tomb at the base of Mt. Olympus. It is said that the birds there still sing more sweetly than at any other place on Earth.

Element Focus: Plot Describe the ways that Orpheus’s life would have been different had he never met Eurydice.

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Persephone retold by Stephanie Paris Long ago Greek gods and goddesses ruled the lands. All growing things were cared for by Demeter. She was the Earth goddess. Her lovely daughter, Persephone, helped. Persephone was the goddess of spring. She loved to walk in the meadows. She liked to help the plants. She was filled with joy for life! Hades was the god of the Underworld. He ruled the dead. He loved the happy young goddess. One day, he made up his mind. Persephone would be his queen. She would rule the Underworld with him. Hades spoke with Zeus, the king of the gods. He asked about marrying Persephone. She was Zeus’s daughter. But Zeus knew that Demeter would not like this! The Underworld was deep under the Earth. Demeter would not want her daughter to be so far away. Zeus told Hades that he should try something unusual. Hades was startled by the idea. So the death god jumped on his black chariot. He rode to the surface of the world. There, he burst out from a crack in the ground. It was only meters from where Persephone stood. Hades whisked her away! He took her to the Underworld. Demeter soon noticed that her daughter was missing. She began a search. She ignored all her other work. She wanted her daughter back. Hecate was the goddess of magic. She went with Demeter. She held the torches. They went everywhere they thought that the girl might be. Helios, the sun, had seen it all. He lived in the sky. He told Demeter the story. She was angry! Then she was very sad. The Underworld was not in her power. She could not get to Persephone. Demeter mourned. She wondered how she would be able to do all the work in springtime. She stopped working. The plants began to die. The animals began to die. The humans were dying, too!

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This put Zeus in a difficult position. Demeter wanted Persephone back. And if she did not work, all life would soon die. But Zeus did not want to upset Hades. Having the king of the Underworld angry would be a bad thing. After all, the dead outnumber the living! In the end, Zeus decided that life on Earth was most important. He told Hades to let Persephone go. But he wanted to seem fair. So he said if Persephone had eaten anything in the Underworld, she would have to stay. She would be Hades’s queen. Zeus knew that the girl would not eat anything unless she wanted to stay. Persephone had been careful to not eat a thing. But one day, Hades brought her a kind gift. It was her favorite fruit. It was a pomegranate. By that time, she was very hungry. And she was homesick. But she now knew the Underworld much better. She was confused. She liked the idea of being queen. But she wanted to run free. She wanted to breathe the spring air. She missed her mother. Carefully, Persephone took out six small seeds. She ate each one. The sweet juice ran down her throat. She thought of the Earth. She thought of being queen. She remembered her mother. Hermes, the messenger god came. He was there to tell them Zeus’s decision. He had to ask. Had Persephone eaten? She said, “Yes.” This was a problem! The gods argued. Demeter said that six seeds should not count. Zeus said that his laws were final. He said Persephone must stay. But Persephone knew this would happen. She had talked with Hades. The two of them had an idea. They said that Persephone should stay with the death god. She would be his queen for six months out of the year. That would be one month for each seed. For the rest of the year, she would go with her mother. She would help Demeter tend the Earth. Demeter and Zeus agreed. The idea was good for everyone. But Demeter said that she would not work when her daughter was away. So every year for six months, Persephone stays in the Underworld. The plants die. The Earth goes through autumn and winter. But in spring and summer, Persephone walks at her mother’s side. So growing things turn green! They are alive once more!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe how Persephone’s homes during the year act as symbols for the seasons on Earth.

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Persephone retold by Stephanie Paris Long ago gods and goddesses ruled the lands of Greece and beyond. All growing things were cared for by the Earth goddess, Demeter. Her lovely daughter, Persephone, helped. Persephone was the goddess of spring. She loved to wander through the fields and meadows. She liked helping to tend the growing plants. And she was filled with a joy for life that spread to those nearby. Hades was the god of the Underworld. He ruled the dead. He was fascinated by the happy young goddess. One day, he made up his mind that Persephone should be his queen. She would rule the Underworld with him. Hades spoke with Zeus, the King of the gods. He asked about taking Persephone’s hand in marriage. For Persephone was Zeus’s daughter, too. But Zeus knew that Demeter would never allow this marriage! The Underworld was deep under the Earth. Demeter would not wish her daughter to be so far away from her. Zeus hinted to Hades that he should try something unusual. Hades was startled by the suggestion. But he believed Zeus to be wise. So the death god leapt on his black chariot. He thundered to the surface of the world. There, he burst forth from a crack in the ground. It was only meters from where Persephone stood. Taking hold of the young goddess, Hades whisked her away to the Underworld! Demeter soon noticed that her daughter was missing. She began a search. She ignored all her other work. Her attention was on getting her daughter back. Hecate, the goddess of magic, went with Demeter on her search. She held the torches as they traveled. They went everywhere they thought that the girl might be. Along the way, the goddesses asked everyone if there was any news. Helios, the sun, had seen it all from the sky. He told Demeter the story. She grew furious! Then she became very sad. The Underworld was beyond her power. She could not get to Persephone. Demeter mourned the loss. She wondered how she would be able to manage all the new plants in the springtime. She stopped tending the Earth. The plants began to die. Soon, the animals and humans began to die, too. © Shell Education

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This put Zeus in an awkward position. If he didn’t help Demeter get Persephone back, all life on Earth would soon die. On the other hand, enraging the king of the Underworld would not be a good thing. After all, the dead outnumber the living! In the end, the possibility of all life on Earth dying out was just too great a risk. Zeus demanded that Hades release Persephone immediately. He wanted to seem fair, so he provided a condition. If Persephone had eaten anything while she was in the Underworld, she would have to stay. She would be Hades’s queen. Zeus knew that Persephone would not eat anything unless she wanted to stay. Persephone did know the ways of the gods and goddesses. She had been careful to not eat a thing while in the Underworld. But one day, Hades brought her a kind gift. It was her favorite fruit, the pomegranate. By that time, she was very hungry. But she had gotten to know the Underworld much better. She liked the idea of being queen. But she wanted to run free in the springtime air, too. Carefully, Persephone separated out six small seeds. She ate each one. The sweet juice ran down her throat. She thought of the surface world. She remembered her mother. She smiled. Hermes, the messenger god, came to tell them Zeus’s decision. He had to ask Persephone if she had eaten while she was in the Underworld. She said, “Yes.” This complicated things! Demeter said that such a small amount of food should not count. Zeus said that his laws were final. He said Persephone must stay. But Persephone knew this would happen. She had spoken with Hades. The two of them had an idea. They said that Persephone should stay with the death god as his queen for six months out of the year. That would be one month for each seed. Then for the rest of the year, she would go with her mother. She would help Demeter with tending the Earth. Demeter and Zeus agreed. The idea was good for everyone. But Demeter said that she would not work when her daughter was away. So for the six months that Persephone spends in the Underworld, the Earth goes through autumn and winter. But in spring and summer, Persephone once again walks at her mother’s side. So, growing things turn green and alive once more!

Element Focus: Language Usage In what ways does Persephone’s yearly journey symbolize the cycle of the seasons?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Persephone retold by Stephanie Paris Long ago the gods and goddesses of Mt. Olympus ruled the lands of Greece and beyond. All growing things of the world were cared for by the powerful Earth goddess, Demeter. Assisting her was her lovely daughter, Persephone. Persephone was the goddess of spring. She delighted in wandering through her mother’s fields and meadows. She liked helping to tend the growing plants. And she was filled with a joy for life that affected all who knew her. Hades was the god of the Underworld and ruler of the dead. Unsurprisingly, he found himself fascinated by the spirited young goddess. One day, he made up his mind that Persephone should be his queen. She would rule the Underworld by his side. As was the tradition of the time, Hades spoke with Zeus, the king of the gods. Hades asked about taking Persephone’s hand in marriage. For Persephone was Zeus’s daughter, too. But Zeus knew well that Demeter would never permit this union! The Underworld was deep beneath the Earth. Demeter loved her daughter too much to be separated from her willingly. Zeus hinted to Hades that perhaps a less traditional method of wooing his bride would be more successful. So taking Zeus’s advice, the death god leapt on his black chariot and thundered to the surface of the world. He burst forth from a crack in the ground meters from where Persephone stood. Taking hold of the young goddess, Hades whisked her away to the Underworld before anyone could do anything! Demeter soon noticed that her daughter was missing, of course. She began a frantic search. Ignoring all her other duties, she devoted her entire attention to the matter at hand. Hecate, goddess of magic, accompanied Demeter in her search, holding the torches as they traveled everywhere they thought that the girl might have gone. Helios, the sun, had witnessed it all from his perch in the sky. When Demeter heard the story from him, she grew furious! Then she became terribly sad. The Underworld was beyond her domain. She was powerless to retrieve Persephone. She wondered how she would be able to cope without her daughter’s help with all the new plants in the springtime. She stopped tending the Earth. The plants began to die. Soon, the animals and humans that relied on the plants began to die, as well. © Shell Education

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This put Zeus in an awkward position. If he didn’t help Demeter retrieve Persephone, all life on Earth would soon perish. On the other hand, enraging Hades would not be a good thing, either. After all, the dead outnumber the living! In the end, the possibility of all life on Earth dying out was just too great a risk to take. Zeus demanded that Hades release Persephone immediately. But in order to seem more fair, he provided a condition. If Persephone had eaten anything while she was in the Underworld, she would have to stay and be Hades’s queen. Zeus knew that Persephone was aware of the ways of the gods. She would not eat anything in the Underworld unless she truly wished to stay. Indeed, Persephone was well versed in the ways of the gods and goddesses. The young goddess had been careful to not eat a thing while she had been in Hades’s realm. But one day, the lord of the Underworld brought her a very thoughtful gift. It was her favorite fruit, the pomegranate. By that time, she was very hungry and quite homesick. Carefully, Persephone separated out six small seeds. She savored each one. She thought of the surface world and the mother she wished to see. When Hermes, the messenger god, arrived to give Hades Zeus’s decision, he was required to ask Persephone if she had eaten while she had been in the Underworld. Immediately, she admitted what she had done. This complicated things! Demeter insisted that such a small amount of food should not count. Zeus said that his laws were final, and Persephone must stay. But Persephone had anticipated this. She had spoken already with Hades. The two of them made a different proposal. They suggested that Persephone stay with the death god as his queen for six months—one month for each seed. Then for the rest of the year, she would return to Demeter and help with the Earth. Demeter and Zeus quickly agreed. The matter was settled. But Demeter swore that she would always refuse to work when her daughter was away from her. Thus, for the six months of the year that Persephone spends in the Underworld, the Earth is dark and barren. But in spring and summer, when Persephone once again walks at her mother’s side, growing things turn green and alive once more!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe the ways that Persephone’s yearly journey symbolizes the cycle of the seasons on Earth.

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Persephone retold by Stephanie Paris Long ago when the gods and goddesses of Mt. Olympus ruled the lands of Greece and beyond, all growing things of the world were cared for by the powerful Earth goddess, Demeter. Assisting her in her task was Demeter’s lovely daughter, Persephone. Persephone was the goddess of spring. She delighted in wandering through her mother’s fields and meadows, helping tend the growing plants and enjoying the days as only a carefree young goddess can. Hades, the god of the Underworld and ruler of the dead, found himself fascinated by the joy and life displayed by the spirited young goddess. One day, he made up his mind that Persephone should be his queen, ruling the Underworld by his side. As was the custom of the time, Hades spoke with Zeus, the king of the gods, about taking his daughter’s hand in marriage. But Zeus knew well that Demeter would never permit this union! The Underworld was deep beneath the Earth, and Demeter loved her daughter too much to be separated from her. Zeus hinted to Hades that perhaps a less traditional method of wooing his bride would be more successful. So taking Zeus’s advice, the death god leapt on his black chariot and thundered to the surface of the world. He burst forth from a crack in the ground meters from where Persephone stood. Taking hold of the young goddess, Hades whisked her away to the Underworld before anyone could do anything! Demeter soon noticed that her daughter was missing, of course, and began a frantic search. She ignored all her other duties and devoted her entire attention to retrieving her daughter. Hecate, goddess of magic, accompanied Demeter in her search. Along the way, the goddesses asked anyone for news of what might have happened. Helios, the sun, had seen it all from his perch in the sky. When Demeter heard the story, she grew furious! The Underworld was beyond her domain, and she was powerless to retrieve Persephone. Demeter mourned the loss and wondered how she would be able to cope without her daughter’s help with all the new plants in the springtime. She stopped tending the Earth and the plants began to die. Soon, the animals and humans that relied on the plants began to die, as well. © Shell Education

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This put Zeus in an awkward situation. If he didn’t help Demeter retrieve Persephone, all life on Earth would soon perish. On the other hand, enraging the king would not be a good thing, either. After all, the dead outnumber the living! In the end, the possibility of all life on Earth dying out was just too great a risk to take. Zeus demanded that Hades release Persephone immediately. But in order to seem more fair, he provided a condition. If Persephone had eaten anything while she was in the Underworld, she would have to stay and be Hades’s queen. Zeus knew that Persephone was aware of the ways of the gods. She would not eat anything in the Underworld unless she truly wished to stay. Indeed, Persephone was well versed in the ways of the gods and goddesses. The young goddess had been careful to not eat a thing while she had been in Hades’s realm. But one day, the lord of the Underworld had brought her a very thoughtful gift. It was her favorite fruit, the pomegranate. By that time, she was very hungry and homesick. Carefully, Persephone separated out six small seeds. She savored each one and thought of the surface world and the mother she wished to see. When Hermes, the messenger god, arrived to give Hades Zeus’s decision, he was required to ask Persephone if she had eaten while she had been in the Underworld. Immediately, she admitted what she had done. This complicated things immensely! Demeter insisted that such a small amount of food should not count. Zeus said that his laws were final, and Persephone must stay. Persephone had anticipated this, and had spoken with Hades. The two of them made a proposal. They suggested that Persephone stay with the death god as his queen for six months—one month for each seed. Then she would return to Demeter and help with tending the Earth. Demeter and Zeus quickly agreed and the matter was settled. However, Demeter swore that she would always refuse to work when her daughter was away from her. Thus, for the six months of the year that Persephone spends in the Underworld, the Earth goes through autumn and winter. But in spring, when Persephone once again walks at her mother’s side, growing things turn green and alive once more!

Element Focus: Language Usage In what ways can Persephone’s yearly journey to the Underworld and back to the Earth’s surface serve to symbolize the life cycle of a seasonal plant?

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© Shell Education

The Trojan Horse retold by Stephanie Paris The war had already been going for 10 years. Greece was fighting the city of Troy. The Greeks were led by Odysseus. They had laid siege to the city. They had surrounded it. But they could not get past the huge walls. Both sides were tired. The Greeks had been away from their families for too long. The Trojans wanted their freedom. They wanted to walk across the countryside. They wanted to trade with their neighbors. The armies were stuck. No one could win. One morning, the Trojans looked out. They were delighted! They saw that the Greeks were getting ready to leave. The Greeks packed their tents. They loaded supplies onto wagons. Soldiers formed into lines. In one corner was a group of craftsmen. They were building something big. It took several days for the army to get on the move. But one sunrise, it happened. The guards of Troy could see the ships of Greece. They were putting out their sails. They were moving out to sea. There was only one man left. He stood next to a giant wooden horse. “Who are you? What has happened here?” the Trojans said. The man said, “I am Sinon. The Greek army has left me here! I have nothing! There is only this wooden statue to protect me!” “And what is that wooden horse?” the Trojans asked. “That is an offering to Athena. It is so she will let the ships go back to Greece. It is to keep them safe,” spat Sinon. “They made it big. They don’t want you to take it into the city. They don’t want you to get Athena on your side!” The Trojans were not trusting. One priest was named Laocoon. He warned, “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!” He thought there might be men hidden inside the horse! So the Trojans asked Helen to come out. They wanted to try a trick. She knew the men that might be inside. So she pretended to be their wives.

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She called out, “Odysseus! Are you inside there, my love? Please come out! I have been captured!” But there was no answer. Next, she tried calling for Anticlus. She used a different voice. But all was silent. The Trojans now believed Sinon. They decided to take the horse into the city. They hoped to get Athena’s blessing. They thought that Athena might even harm the Greek fleet! Cassandra was the soothsayer of Troy. She was gifted with sight. She could tell the future. She tried to warn King Priam. He was the leader of Troy. “This horse will be the downfall of Troy. It will end the royal family!” she said. But she was ignored. The great horse was dragged through the heavy gates. It was put into the main square for all to see. That night, the Trojans were relieved. They threw a huge feast. They wanted to celebrate. It was the end of the war! Many people looked up to the horse as a symbol of their victory. They rejoiced! By the small hours of the morning, they were exhausted. Everyone went to sleep. Only a few guards were awake. But Laocoon and Cassandra had been right! Inside the horse were hidden 30 of the best Greek fighters. They were led by Odysseus. They crept out of the horse. Quickly, they overpowered the guards. Next, they threw open the gates of Troy. They let in the Greek army. The Greeks had sailed away during the day. But they had sailed back at night. Now, the whole army had sneaked back to Troy. They took over the unprepared city. King Priam was killed. And at last, the long war was finally over. People today repeat Laocoon’s advice. “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts,” they say. This means they want to warn you about enemies who are now acting friendly. And sometimes people talk about a “Trojan horse.” Then they mean to say that a gift that looks good on the outside might hide something unpleasant within!

Element Focus: Language Usage Today, the term Trojan horse is used as a metaphor. When might a gift be thought of as a Trojan horse?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

The Trojan Horse retold by Stephanie Paris The war between Troy and Greece had been raging for a full decade. The Greeks were led by Odysseus. They had laid siege to the city of Troy. They had surrounded it. But they could not get past the huge walls. The troops of both sides were tired. The Greeks had been away from their families for too long. The Trojans wanted their freedom to walk at will across the countryside. They wanted to trade with their neighbors. They were at a stalemate. One morning, the Trojans looked out on the enemy camps. To their delight, they saw that the Greeks were readying themselves to leave! The tents were being packed. Supplies were being loaded onto wagons. And soldiers were forming into lines. In one corner, a group of craftsmen busied themselves. They were building a large wooden figure. It took several days for the army to get on the move. But one sunrise, the guards of Troy could see the ships of Greece. They were unfurling their sails and moving out to sea. Where the camps had been remained only one man. He stood next to a giant wooden horse. “Who are you? What has happened here?” the Trojans demanded. The man said, “I am Sinon of Greece. The cursed Greek army has left me here! I have nothing but this wooden statue to protect me.” “And what exactly is that wooden horse?” the Trojans wanted to know. “That is an offering to Athena. It is so she will allow safe passage of the ships back to Greece,” replied Sinon bitterly. “They made it large. They hoped to prevent you from taking it into Troy. They don’t want you asking the goddess’s favor for yourselves!” The Trojans were not trusting. One priest, Laocoon, warned, “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!” He thought there might be men hidden inside the horse! So the Trojans asked Helen of Troy to come out. They wanted to try a trick. She knew the men that the Greeks would trust with such a task. So she pretended to be their wives.

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First, she called out, “Odysseus! Are you inside there, my beloved? Please come out! They have captured me!” But there was no answer. Next, she tried calling for Anticlus. She used a different voice. But again, all was silent. The Trojans were satisfied. They believed Sinon. So they decided to take the great horse into the city. They hoped to get Athena’s blessing for themselves. And they thought that Athena might even disrupt the Greek journey home! Cassandra was the soothsayer of Troy. She was gifted with sight to tell the future. She tried to warn King Priam, the leader of Troy. “This horse will be the downfall of Troy. It will end the royal family!” she said. But she was ignored. The great horse was carefully dragged through the heavy gates. It was put into the main courtyard for all to see. That night, the Trojans heaved a sigh of relief. They threw a huge feast. They wanted to celebrate. It was the end of the war! Many people looked up to the horse as a symbol of their victory. They rejoiced! By the small hours of the morning, they were exhausted. All except for a few guards went to sleep. But as it turned out, Laocoon and Cassandra had been right! Inside the giant horse were hidden 30 of Greece’s best fighters. Led by Odysseus, they crept out of the horse. Quickly, they overpowered the few soldiers still on duty. Next, they threw open the gates of Troy and let the Greek soldiers into the main courtyard. The Greeks had sailed away during the day. But they had sailed back under cover of darkness. Now, the entire army had sneaked back to Troy. They easily conquered the unprepared city! King Priam of Troy was killed. And at last, the long war was finally over. To this day, people repeat Laocoon’s fateful advice. “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts,” they say when they want to warn about enemies suddenly acting friendly. And when someone discusses a “Trojan horse,” they mean to say that a gift that looks good on the outside might hold something unpleasant within!

Element Focus: Language Usage Today, the term Trojan horse is used as a metaphor. Describe what you think this metaphor means.

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© Shell Education

The Trojan Horse retold by Stephanie Paris The war between Troy and Greece had been raging for a full decade. The Greeks, led by Odysseus, had laid siege to the city of Troy. They had surrounded the city but had never been able to breach its sturdy walls. The troops of both sides were weary. The Greeks had been away from their families for far too long. The Trojans wanted their freedom to walk at will across the countryside and resume trade with their neighbors. No one had yet found a solution to the stalemate. One morning, the Trojans looked out on the enemy camps. To their delight, they noted that the Greeks were readying themselves to leave! The tents were being packed, supplies were being loaded onto wagons, and soldiers were forming into caravans. In one corner of the compound, a group of craftsmen busied themselves building a large wooden figure. It took several days for the army to get completely on the move. But one sunrise, the guards of Troy saw the ships of Greece unfurling their sails and moving out to sea. Where the camps had been now remained only one man. He was standing beside a giant wooden horse. “Who are you, and what has happened here?” they demanded of the man. He replied, “I am Sinon of Greece. The accursed Greek army has abandoned me here with nothing but this wooden mockery to protect me!” “And what exactly is that wooden horse?” the suspicious Trojans wanted to know. “That is an offering to Athena so that she will allow safe passage of the ships back to Greece,” replied Sinon bitterly. “They made it so large to prevent you from taking it into Troy and claiming the goddess’s favor yourselves!” After 10 long years of war, the Trojans were understandably skeptical. One priest, Laocoon, warned, “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!” He thought there might be men hidden inside the horse! So the Trojans asked Helen of Troy to try a trick. Helen had lived among the Greeks. She well knew the men who might have been entrusted with such a mission. She also was acquainted with their families. So now, the Trojans called upon her to impersonate the heroes’ wives.

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First, she called out, “Odysseus! Are you inside there, my beloved Odysseus? Please come out! The Trojans have captured me!” But there was no response from within. So she proceeded to call out for Anticlus, using a different voice. But again, all was silent. Finally, the Trojans were satisfied. They decided to take the great horse into the city. In this way, they hoped to get Athena’s blessing for themselves and perhaps even disrupt the Greek journey home! Cassandra was the soothsayer of Troy, gifted with sight to tell the future. She tried to warn King Priam, insisting, “This horse will be the downfall of Troy and the royal family!” But she was ignored. The wooden horse was carefully dragged through the heavy gates of the city. It was placed in the main courtyard for all to see. That night, the Trojans finally heaved a sigh of relief. They threw a huge feast to celebrate the end of the war. Many people looked up to the horse as a symbol of their victory and rejoiced. By the small hours of the morning, they were exhausted. All except for a few guards fell into a deep and hopeful sleep. But as it turned out, Laocoon and Cassandra had been right all along! Inside the giant horse were hidden 30 of Greece’s best fighters. Led by Odysseus, they crept out of the horse. Quickly, they overpowered the few soldiers still on duty. Next, they threw open the gates of Troy and let the Greek soldiers into the main courtyard. The Greeks had sailed away during the day. But they had sailed back under cover of darkness. Now, the entire army had sneaked back to Troy. They easily conquered the unprepared city! King Priam of Troy was killed, and at last, the long war was finally over. To this day, people repeat Laocoon’s fateful advice: “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.” They intend to warn someone about enemies who are suddenly acting friendly. And when someone discusses a “Trojan horse,” they mean to say that a gift that looks good on the outside might hide an unpleasant surprise within!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe the ways that the Trojan horse has taken on a metaphorical meaning.

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© Shell Education

The Trojan Horse retold by Stephanie Paris The war between Troy and Greece had been raging for a complete decade. The Greeks, led by the hero Odysseus, had laid siege to the city of Troy, surrounding it, but had never been able to breach its sturdy walls. The troops of both sides were incredibly weary. The Greeks had been away from their families for far too long. The Trojans, of course, wanted the freedom to walk at will across the countryside and resume trade with their neighbors. No one had yet found a solution to the stalemate. One morning, the Trojans looked out on the enemy camps, and to their delight, noted that the Greeks were readying themselves to leave! The tents were being packed, supplies were being loaded onto wagons, and soldiers were forming into traveling caravans. In one corner of the compound, a group of craftsmen busied themselves building a large wooden figure. It took several days for the army to get completely on the move, but one sunrise, the guards of Troy looked out to see the ships of Greece unfurling their sails and moving out to sea. Where the camps had been now remained only one man standing beside a giant wooden horse. “Who are you, and what has happened here?” they demanded of the man. He replied, “I am Sinon of Greece, and the accursed Greek army has abandoned me here with nothing but this wooden mockery to protect me!” “And what exactly is that wooden horse?” the suspicious Trojans wanted to know. “That is an offering to Athena so that she will allow safe passage of the ships back to Greece,” replied Sinon bitterly. “They made it so large to prevent you from taking it into Troy and claiming the goddess’s favor yourselves!” After 10 long years of war, the Trojans were understandably skeptical. One priest, Laocoon, warned “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts!” He thought there might be men hidden inside the horse! So the Trojans asked Helen of Troy to try a trick. Helen had lived among the Greeks and well knew the men who might have been entrusted with such a mission. She also was acquainted with their families. So now, the Trojans called upon her to impersonate the heroes’ wives.

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First, she called out, “Odysseus! Are you inside there, my beloved Odysseus? Please come out! The Trojans have captured me!” But there was no response or any sound from within. So she proceeded to call out for Anticlus, using a different voice, but again, all was silent. Finally, satisfied that what Sinon had said was true, the Trojans decided to take the great horse into the city. In this way, they hoped to get Athena’s blessing for themselves and perhaps even disrupt the Greek journey home! Cassandra was the soothsayer of Troy, gifted with sight to tell the future. She tried to warn King Priam, the leader of Troy, insisting, “This horse will be the downfall of Troy and the royal family!” But she was ignored, and the great horse was carefully dragged through the heavy gates of the city. It was deposited into the main courtyard for all to see. That night, the Trojans finally heaved a sigh of relief and threw a huge feast to celebrate the end of the war. Many people looked up to the horse as a symbol of their victory and rejoiced. By the small hours of the morning, they were exhausted. All except for a few guards fell into a deep and hopeful sleep. But as it turned out, Laocoon and Cassandra had been right all along! Inside the giant horse were hidden 30 of Greece’s best fighters. Led by Odysseus, they crept out of the horse and quickly overpowered the few soldiers still on duty. Next, they threw open the gates of Troy and let the Greek soldiers into the main courtyard. The Greeks had sailed away during the day, but they had sailed back under cover of darkness. Now, the entire army had sneaked back to Troy. They easily conquered the unprepared city! King Priam of Troy was killed, and the long war was over. To this day, people repeat Laocoon’s fateful advice: “Beware of Greeks bearing gifts.” They intend to warn someone about enemies who are suddenly acting friendly. And when someone discusses a “Trojan horse,” they mean to say that a gift that looks good on the outside might hide an unpleasant surprise within!

Element Focus: Language Usage What pictures do the words in this story paint in your mind?

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© Shell Education

Sif’s Golden Hair retold by Stephanie Paris

Every group has at least one very clever person. These people are so smart that they need extra wisdom. Unfortunately, sometimes they are born without even the usual amount of wisdom. And this can be trouble. It is a problem for them. And it is a problem for everyone they know! The Ancient Norse gods had just such a person. His name was Loki. He loved to use his wit to play tricks. He would trick the other gods and goddesses. Sometimes, the tricks were funny. But often, they became cruel. One night, he played a prank. He cut off all of Sif’s golden hair! The next morning, the goddess woke up. She sat up in her bed. She looked down and found all her lovely locks lying limply on the pillow. She screamed! Her husband, Thor, rushed to her side. When he saw what had happened, he was angry. He called all the gods to a meeting. They all came. But Loki did not come. He hid. Thor swore he would have revenge! But Odin All-Father, was wise leader of the gods. He reminded Thor that the gods could not try to kill each other. Instead, Odin sent for Loki. Even the hiding trickster could not ignore this call. He left his safe hiding place. He went to the Council. Thor greeted Loki roughly. He shoved the weaker god against a wall! “Loki, you have done a great wrong to one among us. You must make it right!” said Odin. “You must use your mind to give back what you have taken. Return to Sif her golden hair!” Loki had been ordered by Odin. So he knew he must find a way. “I shall do as you command, Odin All-Father,” he said. Then he set his mind to the task.

© Shell Education

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Loki still did have some friends. Deep under the Earth lived a race of dwarfs. Their hot forges helped them to make amazing things. They used the finest of metals. Loki went to see them when the gods were annoyed by his tricks. He would flatter them. And he would tell them that the gods could give them fine things. All they needed to do was show the gods they were useful. Loki had seen some of the work of the dwarfs. He had watched as they made a spear. It was named Gungnir. It could hit any target! It would hit even if the thrower had poor aim. He had seen the dwarfs make a boat. It was called Skidbladnir. It was sturdy. It could sail any sea. And it could be folded up and carried in your pocket! Loki turned to these friends in his time of need. But he did not ask straight out. That was not his way. Instead, he flattered them. He challenged them. He told them that he knew their skill. But he said many of the other gods had doubts. He told them that only they could make a wig from the purest of gold. He said only they could make it shine like the hair of Sif. He told them that such a gift would make the gods jealous! The dwarfs were moved by his flattery. They wanted to prove their skills. They took lumps of pure gold. They melted them in their fires. The smiths hammered these into thin strands. These were so fine that they could not be told from real hair. Each strand shone like a sunbeam. Together, they gleamed like the sun! The wig was as light as silk. And it flowed like waving wheat. Loki praised the dwarfs. He flattered them again and again. Soon, they were surprised to find themselves gifting the god even more. They handed over the spear Gungnir. Then they gave him the boat Skidbladnir! Loki strode into the Council chamber. He cried out, “Off with your veil, lovely Sif! I have come to return your glory!” Onto her uncovered scalp he gently put the fine golden hair. It fell softly down her shoulders. It held to her head as if it had been rooted there since birth. The gods and goddesses were delighted! They congratulated Sif. They told her she was as beautiful as ever. Loki now pulled out the other gifts. To Odin, he handed Gungnir. That was the unerring spear. Frey was leader of the ancient tribe of Vanir. To him, Loki handed the boat. In this way, Loki returned himself to favor. He made up with the immortal beings. That is, until the next time that he played too many tricks!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe Sif’s new hair. What imagery might you have used if you were the author?

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

© Shell Education

Sif’s Golden Hair retold by Stephanie Paris

In every group, there is at least one very clever person. These people are so smart that they need extra wisdom to control their wit. Unfortunately, sometimes they are born without even the usual amount of wisdom. And then there is trouble for them. And there is trouble for all those they know! The Ancient Norse gods had just such a person. His name was Loki. He loved nothing more than to use his wit to play tricks on the other gods and goddesses. Sometimes, the tricks were funny. But often, they became cruel. One night, as a prank, he cut off all of Sif’s gorgeous golden hair! When she awoke, the goddess sat up in her bed. She looked down and found all her lovely locks lying limply on the pillow. She screamed! Her husband, Thor, rushed to her side. When he saw what had happened, he called all the gods to a meeting. And, out of respect for Thor, all of them gathered. All, that is, but Loki. Loki hid. At the Council, Thor swore he would have revenge! But Odin All-Father, wise leader of the gods, reminded him that the gods could not try to kill each other. Instead, Odin sent a summons for Loki. Even the hiding trickster could not ignore this call. Reluctantly, he left his safe haven. He went to the Council. Thor greeted Loki roughly. He shoved the weaker god against a wall! “Loki, you have done a great wrong to one among us. You must make it right!” said Odin. “You must use your mind to give back what you have taken. Return to Sif the beauty of her golden hair!” Loki had been ordered by Odin. So he knew he must find a way. “I shall do as you command, Odin All-Father,” he said. Then he set his mind to the task.

© Shell Education

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As it so happened, Loki did have some friends that were not angry with him. Deep under the Earth lived a race of dwarfs. Their hot forges helped them to make amazing things. They used the finest of metals. Loki often went to see them when too many gods were annoyed by his tricks. He would flatter them. And he would tell them of the fine things that the gods could give them. All they needed to do was show the gods how useful they could be. Loki had seen firsthand some of the most impressive work of the dwarfs. He had watched as they made a spear. It was named Gungnir. It could hit any target even if the thrower’s aim was poor. He had seen them make a boat. It was called Skidbladnir. It was sturdy enough to sail any sea. It was so well crafted that it could be folded up and carried in your pocket! To these friends Loki turned in his time of need. But he did not ask straight out. For that was not his way. Instead, he flattered them. He challenged them. He told them that he was certain of their ability. But he said many of the other gods had doubts. He told them that only they had the skills to make a wig from the purest of gold. He said only they could make it shine like the hair of Sif herself. He told them that if they could make such a gift, the gods would be jealous! The dwarfs were moved by his flattery. They wanted to prove their skills. They took lumps of the purest gold. They melted them in their fires. The smiths hammered these into strands so fine that they could not be told from real hair. Each strand shone like a sunbeam. Together they gleamed like the sun itself! The magnificent work was as light as silk. And it flowed as naturally as waving wheat. Loki praised the skill of the dwarfs. He flattered them again and again. Soon, the suspicious dwarfs were surprised to find themselves gifting the god even more. They handed over the spear Gungnir. Then they gave him the miraculous boat Skidbladnir! Loki strode into the Council chamber with confidence. He cried out, “Off with your veil, lovely Sif! I have come to return your glory!” Onto her uncovered scalp he gently laid the fine golden hair. It fell softly down her shoulders. It held to her head as if it had been rooted there since birth. The gods and goddesses were delighted! They congratulated Sif. They told her she was as beautiful as ever. Loki now pulled out the other offerings. To Odin, he handed Gungnir, the unerring spear. And to Frey, who was leader of the ancient tribe of Vanir, he handed the boat. In this way, Loki returned himself to favor among the immortal beings. That is, until the next time that his cleverness overpowered the strength of his wisdom!

Element Focus: Language Usage The author uses specific imagery to describe the nature of Sif’s new wig. What different imagery might you choose to help a reader understand the wonderful qualities of the new hair?

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© Shell Education

Sif’s Golden Hair retold by Stephanie Paris

In every group, I am sure you will agree, there is at least one person with so much cleverness they would need extra wisdom to keep it in check. Unfortunately, sometimes these people are born without even the usual amount of wisdom. And then, woe indeed unto them! And woe to all those with whom they interact! The Ancient Norse gods had just such a person among them. His name was Loki. He loved nothing more than to use his wit and skill to play tricks on the other gods and goddesses of Asgard. Sometimes, the tricks were funny. But often, they crossed over the line of humor and fell into the realm of cruelty. For example, one night, as a prank, he cut off all of Sif’s gorgeous golden hair! When she awoke in the morning, the goddess sat up in her bed. She looked down and found all her lovely locks lying limply on the pillow. She screamed! Her husband, Thor, rushed to her side in alarm. When he saw what had happened, he called all the gods to a meeting. And out of respect for Thor, all of them gathered. All, that is, save Loki. Loki hid. At the Council, Thor swore he would have revenge on Loki! But Odin All-Father, wise leader of the gods, reminded him that the gods could not try to kill each other. Odin would not leave the matter unaddressed, however. Immediately, he sent forth his summons for Loki. This summons even the hiding trickster could not ignore. Reluctantly, he left his safe haven. He presented himself at the Council. Thor greeted Loki roughly. Taking him in hand, Thor shoved the weaker god against a wall before Odin could intercede. “Loki, you have done a great wrong to one among us. For this, you must make amends!” proclaimed the wisest of the gods. “You must use your cunning to restore that which you have taken. Return to Sif the beauty of her golden hair!” Having once been ordered by Odin, Loki knew there was nothing to do but find a way. “I shall do as you command, Odin All-Father,” he replied meekly. Then he set his mind to the task.

© Shell Education

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As it so happened, Loki did have some friends that he had not managed to anger lately with his pranks. Deep under the Earth lived a race of dwarfs. Their superheated forges helped them to make amazing objects from the finest of metals. Loki often took refuge in their realms whenever too many of his fellow gods were annoyed with his tricks. He would flatter their work. And he would tell them of the fine things that the gods could give them should they come to understand the worth of the little people and their forges. Loki had seen firsthand some of the most impressive work of the dwarfs. He had watched as they made a spear named Gungnir that could hit any target even if the thrower’s aim was poor. He had seen them create a boat called Skidbladnir that was sturdy enough to sail any sea. It was so ingeniously crafted that it could be folded up and carried in your pocket! To these industrious friends Loki turned in his time of need. He did not ask straight out, for that was not his way. Instead, he challenged them. He told them that he was certain of their ability, but many of the other gods had doubts. He told them that only they had the skills necessary to construct a wig from the purest of gold. He said only they could make it shine like the hair of Sif herself. He told them that if they were able to make such a gift, the gods would be jealous! The dwarfs were moved by his flattery and eager to prove their skills. They took lumps of the purest gold and melted them in their fires. These the smiths hammered into strands so fine that they could not be distinguished from the most delicate of hairs. The magnificent work was as light as if it were made from strands of silk. Soon, the suspicious dwarfs were surprised to find themselves gifting the smooth-talking god even more than he had requested. They handed over the spear Gungnir and the miraculous boat Skidbladnir! Loki strode into the Asgard Council chamber with confidence. He jovially cried out, “Off with your veil, lovely Sif! I have come to restore your glory!” Onto her uncovered scalp he gently laid the fine golden hair that the dwarfs had crafted. It held to her head as if it had been rooted there since birth. The gods and goddesses were delighted! They congratulated Sif on her renewed beauty. Loki now pulled out the other offerings. To Odin, he handed Gungnir, the unerring spear. And to Frey, who was leader of the ancient tribe of Vanir, he handed the boat. In this way, Loki returned himself to favor among the immortal beings—at least until the next time that his cleverness overpowered the strength of his wisdom!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe the ways that the imagery associated with Sif’s new wig helps you to form a mental picture.

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© Shell Education

Sif’s Golden Hair retold by Stephanie Paris

In every group, I am sure you will agree, there is at least one person with cleverness so developed that there is no way for any normal dose of wisdom to keep it in check. Unfortunately, sometimes these people are born without even the usual amount of wisdom. And then, woe indeed unto them—and all those with whom they interact! The Ancient Norse gods had just such a person among them. His name was Loki, and he loved nothing more than to apply his amazing wit and skill to playing tricks on the other gods and goddesses of Asgard. Sometimes, the tricks were funny. But often, they crossed over the line of humor and fell into the realm of cruelty. For example, one night, as a prank, he cut off all of Sif’s gorgeous golden hair! When she awoke in the morning, the goddess sat up in her bed and found all her lovely locks lying limply on the pillow. She screamed, and her husband, Thor, rushed to her side in alarm. When he discovered what had happened, he called all the gods to a meeting. And out of respect for the mighty thunder god, all of them gathered. All, that is, save Loki, who hid. At the Council, Thor swore he would have revenge on Loki! But Odin All-Father, wise leader of the gods, reminded him that none who live at Asgard might seek to kill the others. He would not leave the matter unaddressed, however. Immediately, he sent forth his summons for Loki. This summons even the hiding trickster could not ignore. Reluctantly, he left his safe haven and presented himself at the Council. Thor greeted Loki roughly, taking him in hand and shoving the weaker god against a wall before Odin could intercede. “Loki, you have done a great wrong to one among us, and for this you must make amends!” proclaimed the wisest of the gods. “You must use your cunning to restore that which you have taken. Return to Sif the beauty of her golden hair!” Having once been ordered by Odin, Loki knew there was nothing to do but find a way to do as he had been told. “I shall do as you command, Odin All-Father,” he replied meekly. Then he set his mind to the task. © Shell Education

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As it so happened, Loki did have some friends that he had not managed to anger lately with his pranks. Deep under the Earth lived a race of dwarfs whose superheated forges helped them to make amazing objects from the finest of metals. Loki often took refuge in their realms whenever too many of his fellow gods were annoyed with his tricks. He would flatter their work and tell them of the fine things that the dwellers of Asgard could provide them should they come to understand the worth of the little people and their forges. Loki had seen firsthand some of the impressive work of the dwarfs. He had watched as they made a spear named Gungnir that could hit any target even if the thrower’s aim was poor. And he had seen them create a boat sturdy enough to sail any sea and yet so ingeniously crafted that it could be carried in your pocket! This boat had been named Skidbladnir. It was to these industrious friends that Loki turned in his time of need. But he did not ask straight out, for that was not his way. Instead, he set the task as a challenge. He told them that he was certain of their ability, but many of the other gods had doubts. He told them that they had the skills necessary to construct a wig from the purest of gold that would shine like the hair of Sif herself. He told them that if they were able to construct such a gift, the gods would be jealous of the dwarfs’ ability! The dwarfs were moved by his flattery and eager to prove their skills. They took lumps of the purest gold and melted them in their fires. These the smiths hammered into strands so fine that they could not be distinguished from the most delicate of hairs. The magnificent work was as light as if it were made from strands of silk. Soon, the suspicious dwarfs were surprised to find themselves giving the smooth-talking god more than he had requested. They handed over the spear Gungnir and the miraculous boat Skidbladnir! Loki strode into the Asgard Council chamber with confidence. He jovially cried out, “Off with your veil, lovely Sif! I have come to restore your glory!” Onto her uncovered scalp he gently laid the fine golden hair that the dwarfs had crafted. It held to her head as if it had been rooted there since birth. The gods and goddesses were delighted and congratulated her on her renewed beauty. Loki now pulled out the other offerings. To Odin, he handed Gungnir, the unerring spear. To Frey, who was leader of the ancient tribe of Vanir, he handed the boat. In this way, Loki returned himself to favor among the immortal beings—at least until the next time that his cleverness overpowered the strength of his wisdom!

Element Focus: Language Usage In what way does the imagery associated with Sif’s wig help you to understand the miraculous nature of the dwarfs’ creation?

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© Shell Education

Thor and Elli retold by Stephanie Paris Thor was the god of thunder. He went to visit a giant. The giant’s name was Utgarda-Loki. The giant was master of the castle Utgard. Do not confuse him with the god Loki. That god was the trickster. But Utgarda-Loki could play tricks, too! Thor hoped to show his strength. He wanted to convince Utgarda-Loki to become his follower. It was the custom for a host to set out challenges. This was for entertainment. Utgarda-Loki did this for Thor and his friends. First, he challenged the god Loki. He tested the trickster with an eating match. The giant set a long table. It was filled with food. Loki stood at one end. Logi was the giant champion. He stood at the other end. A bell rang. They began eating! Loki ate all the food in his path. He was very fast! He met Logi in the middle. But when he looked up, Loki saw that Logi had eaten the food. And he had eaten the table, too! Logi was the winner. He had eaten more. Next, Utgarda-Loki challenged Thor. The god was to drain a drinking horn. “A great drinker should be able to finish in one swallow,” he said. “A fair one will take two. But even the least of us can drain the horn in three gulps!” Thor took up the horn. He drew a deep breath. Then he gulped. He drank as deeply as he could. Soon he had to stop for air. The horn was still full! He tried again. But the cup stayed full. Thor tried one last time. He drew as much drink from the horn as he could. The horn was still not empty. But now it was not overflowing. Thor was discouraged. He wanted to do better. He asked to be challenged again. This time, the giant asked Thor to lift his cat. The god laughed. He walked over to the beast. He began to lift. But it was harder than expected! So he braced himself. He gave it a great effort. Thor could only lift a single paw off the floor. Now, the god became very serious. He always won at wrestling. So he asked to wrestle the champion of the castle.

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“Hmm,” said Utgarda-Loki with a wink, “I do not see any men here who could match you at wrestling. You have been humiliated today. I want you to have a good challenge. That way, you can prove yourself. I know! I will have my nurse wrestle you. Her name is Elli. I have seen her beat many men who seemed as strong as you!” “Ha!” replied Thor, “I deserve your teasing. But I will try not to harm the old woman!” With that, the enormous god walked up. He grabbed the frail-looking Elli. But he was surprised! The more he struggled, the stronger Elli seemed. He tried different grips. But the old woman stood firm. The two figures stood locked in effort. They wrestled for a long time. But in the end, Thor was exhausted. He had lost. Thor was ashamed. He could not believe that even the nurse was stronger than he was! He took his men. He left the castle. Once he was safely away, Utgarda-Loki stopped him. “Wait! There is something I need to tell you,” he said. “All day long, I have been tricking you. I did this so that you would know that your strength is no match for my magic. I do not want you as my ruler!” Thor felt angry. But he was not convinced. “Tell me how it was done,” he said. So the master of Utgard explained. He told of the illusions he had been using. “Loki thought he was competing with a person. But actually, Logi was fire! That is why he could consume the table along with the food. And the horn that you drank from was attached to the sea. We were all shocked that you could drink as much as you did. You will be shocked, too. Look at the sea levels when next you are there! The cat was the most frightening of all. For it was actually the world serpent, Jormungand! If you had lifted it all the way, the world would have ended.” Thor was furious. But he still wanted to know the rest. “And what of the old nurse, Elli?” he demanded. His teeth were clenched. “Ah,” replied Utgarda-Loki, “the truth is that everyone who saw you wrestle was amazed at how long you lasted! Even the best among us is no match for Elli once she takes hold. You may know her better by another name: Old Age.” With that, Thor flew into a rage. He raised his hammer to strike Utgarda-Loki. But the tricky giant had already disappeared. And when Thor’s company turned back to attack the castle, they found that it had gone as well!

Element Focus: Language Usage Thor and Loki meet some unusual characters in Utgard. Describe the ways that Elli and Logi are different from normal people.

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© Shell Education

Thor and Elli retold by Stephanie Paris One day, the thunder god, Thor, went to visit the giant Utgarda-Loki. The giant was master of the castle Utgard. Do not confuse him with the god Loki, who was the trickster. Though as you shall see, Utgarda-Loki was not above playing some tricks himself! Thor hoped that a show of strength might convince Utgarda-Loki to become his follower. As was the custom, Utgarda-Loki had set out challenges to entertain Thor and his friends. First, he challenged the god Loki, who had accompanied Thor. He tested the trickster with an eating match. The giant set a long trough filled with food. Loki stood at one end. Logi, the giant champion, stood at the other. A bell sounded. And they both began eating! Loki ate all the food in his path. He was very fast! He met Logi in the middle. But when he looked up, Loki saw that Logi had eaten not only the food. The giant had devoured the trough as well! Logi was declared the winner for having consumed more. Next, Utgarda-Loki challenged Thor. The trial was to drain a drinking horn. “A great drinker should be able to drain the horn in a single swallow,” he said. “A fair one will take two draughts. But even the least among us can drain the entire horn in three long gulps!” Thor took up the horn. He drew a deep breath. Then he gulped and gulped as deeply as he could. But soon, he had to stop for air. The horn was still full! So he tried again with all his will. But once more, the cup remained full. Finally, with one last great effort, Thor drew as much drink from the horn as he could. The horn was still not empty. But at least now it was no longer overflowing. Discouraged, Thor wanted to make a better showing. He asked to be challenged again. This time, Utgarda-Loki asked Thor to try to pick up his cat. The god laughed. He strode confidently over to the beast. But when he began to lift, he realized that it was harder than expected! So he braced himself. He gave it a great effort. In the end, Thor was only able to lift a single paw off the floor. Now, the god became gravely serious. None had ever defeated him at wrestling. So he asked to wrestle the champion of the castle.

© Shell Education

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“Hmm,” said Utgarda-Loki with a wink, “I do not see any men in my hall who could hope to match you at wrestling. You have been humiliated today. I want you to have a good challenge to prove yourself. I know! I will have my nurse, Elli, wrestle you. I have seen her defeat many men who seemed as strong as you!” “Ha!” replied Thor, “I deserve your teasing. But I will try not to harm the old woman!” With that, the enormous god strode forward. He grasped the frail-looking Elli by the arms. But much to his surprise, the more he struggled, the stronger Elli seemed. Whatever grip he tried, the old woman stood firm. The two figures stood locked in effort for a long while. But in the end, the mighty god was exhausted. He had to concede the match. Thor was ashamed. He could not believe that even the nurse was stronger than he was! He gathered up his men. He left the castle. But once he was safely away, Utgarda-Loki stopped him. “Wait! There is something I need to tell you,” he said. “All day long, I have been tricking you. I did this so that you would know that your strength is no match for my magic. I do not want you as my ruler!” Thor felt anger rising in his throat. But he was not convinced. “Tell me how it was done,” he demanded. So the master of Utgard explained the illusions he had been using. “Loki thought he was competing with a person. But actually, Logi was fire itself! That is why he could consume the trough along with the food. And the horn that you drank from, Thor, was actually attached to the sea. We were all shocked that you could drink as much as you did. You will be shocked, too, when you next view the sea levels! And the cat was the most frightening of all. For what you believed to be my cat was actually the world serpent, Jormungand! If you had lifted it all the way, the world would have ended.” Thor was furious. But he still wanted to know the rest. “And what of the old nurse, Elli?” he demanded. His teeth were clenched. “Ah,” replied Utgarda-Loki, “the truth is that everyone who saw you wrestle was amazed at how long you lasted! Even the best among us is no match for Elli once she takes hold. You may know her better by another name: Old Age.” With that, Thor flew into a rage. He raised his hammer to strike Utgarda-Loki. But the tricky giant had already disappeared. And when Thor’s company turned back to attack the castle, they found that it had gone as well!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe Elli and Logi. How are they personifications of abstract ideas?

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© Shell Education

Thor and Elli retold by Stephanie Paris One day, the great thunder god, Thor, went to visit the giant Utgarda-Loki, who was master of the castle Utgard. Do not confuse him with the god Loki, who was the trickster. Though as you shall see, Utgarda-Loki was not above playing some tricks himself! The pragmatic Thor hoped that a show of strength might convince the independent Utgarda-Loki to become his follower. As was the custom of hospitality, Utgarda-Loki had set out challenges to entertain Thor and his companions. First, he challenged the god Loki, who had accompanied Thor, to an eating match. He set a long trough filled with food. The god Loki stood at one end, and Logi, the giant champion, stood at the other. At the sound of a bell, they both began eating! Loki devoured all the food in his path and met Logi in the middle. But when he looked up, Loki saw that Logi had eaten not only the food, but the trough as well! Logi was declared the winner for having consumed more. Next, Utgarda-Loki challenged Thor himself to drink from a drinking horn. “A great drinker should be able to drain the horn in a single swallow,” he said. “A fair one will take two draughts. But even the least among us can drain the entire horn in three long gulps!” And so, wishing to impress, Thor took up the horn and drew a deep breath. He gulped and gulped as deeply as he could. But when he was obliged to stop for air, the horn was barely diminished! So he tried again with all his might, but once more, the cup remained full. Finally, with one last great effort, Thor drew as much drink from the horn as he could. The horn was not empty, but at least now it was not overflowing anymore. Discouraged, but still determined to make a better showing, Thor asked to be challenged again. This time, Utgarda-Loki asked Thor to try to pick up his cat. The god laughed and strode confidently over to the beast, but when he began to lift, he realized that the feat was more challenging than expected! So he braced himself and gave it a great effort. In the end, Thor only succeeded in lifting a single paw off the floor. Now, the god became gravely serious. None had ever defeated him at wrestling, so he requested to wrestle the champion of the castle. © Shell Education

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“Hmm,” said Utgarda-Loki with a wink, “I do not see any men in my hall who could hope to match you at wrestling. After your humiliation today, I want you to have a good challenge to prove yourself. I know! I will have my nurse, Elli, wrestle you. I have seen her defeat many men who seemed as strong as you!” “Ha!” replied Thor, “perhaps I deserve your teasing. I will do my best not to harm the old woman!” With that, the enormous god strode forward and grasped the frail-looking Elli by the arms. But much to his surprise, the more he struggled, the stronger Elli seemed. Whatever grip he tried, the old woman stood firm. The two figures stood locked in effort for a long while. In the end, the mighty god was exhausted and had to concede the match. He could not believe that Utgarda-Loki’s house nurse was stronger than he was! He gathered up his men and left the castle. Once he was safely away, Utgarda-Loki stopped him. “Wait! There is something I need to tell you,” he said. “All day long, I have been deceiving you. I did this so that you would know that your strength is no match for my magic. I do not want you as my ruler!” Thor felt anger rising in his throat. But he was not convinced. “Tell me how it was done,” he demanded. So the master of Utgard explained the illusions he had been using all day. “When Loki had his eating contest, he thought he was competing with a person, but actually, Logi was fire itself! That is why he was able to consume the trough along with the food. And the horn that you drank from, Thor, was actually attached to the sea! We were all shocked that you were able to drink as much as you did. And as for the cat, that was the most frightening of all. For what you believed to be my cat was actually the world serpent, Jormungand! If you had succeeded in lifting it all the way, the world would have ended.” Thor was furious, but he still wanted to know the rest. “And what of the old nurse, Elli?” he demanded through clenched teeth. “Ah,” replied Utgarda-Loki, “the truth is that everyone who saw you wrestle was amazed at how long you lasted! Even the best among us is no match for Elli once she takes hold. You may know her better by another name: Old Age.” With that, Thor flew into a rage. He raised his hammer to strike Utgarda-Loki, but the tricky giant had already disappeared. And when Thor’s company turned back to attack the castle, they found that it had gone as well!

Element Focus: Language Usage Describe the ways that Elli and Logi are personifications of abstract ideas.

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Thor and Elli retold by Stephanie Paris One day, the great thunder god, Thor, went to visit the giant Utgarda-Loki, who was master of the castle Utgard. Do not confuse the giant Utgarda-Loki with the god Loki, who was the trickster. The pragmatic Thor hoped that a show of strength might convince the independent Utgarda-Loki to become his follower. As was the custom of hospitality among his kind, Utgarda-Loki had set out challenges to entertain Thor and his companions. First, he challenged the god Loki, who had accompanied Thor, to an eating match. He set a long trough filled with food and positioned the god Loki to start at one end, and Logi, the giant champion, to begin at the other. At the sound of a bell, both competitors began! Loki quickly devoured all the food in his path and met Logi in the middle, which should have been a tie. When he looked up, Loki saw that Logi had eaten not only the food, but the trough as well! Logi was declared the winner. Next, Utgarda-Loki challenged Thor himself to drink from a drinking horn. “A great drinker should be able to drain the horn in a single swallow, a fair one will take two draughts, but even the least among us can drain the entire horn in three gulps!” And so, wishing to impress, Thor took up the horn and drew a deep breath. He gulped and gulped as deeply as he could, but when he was obliged to stop for air, the horn was barely diminished! So he tried again with all his might, but to his dismay, once more the cup remained full. Finally, with one last great effort, Thor drew as much drink from the horn as he could, gulping for what seemed an eternity. After this final attempt, the horn was not empty, but at least now it was not overflowing anymore. Discouraged, but still determined to make a better showing, Thor requested that he be challenged again. Utgarda-Loki was amenable and immediately dared Thor to pick up his giant-sized house cat. The god laughed and strode confidently over to the beast, but when he began to lift, he realized that the feat was more challenging than expected! So he braced himself and gave it a great effort, only to discover that the cat was amazingly heavy for any creature of the world. In the end, Thor only succeeded in lifting a single paw off the floor. Now, the god became gravely serious. None had ever defeated the thunder god at wrestling, so he requested permission to wrestle the champion of the castle.

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“Hmm,” said Utgarda-Loki with a wink, “I do not see any men in my hall who could hope to match your skill at wrestling. After your humiliation today, I want you to have a good challenge to prove yourself. Therefore, I will have our nurse, Elli, wrestle you. I have seen her defeat many men who seemed equally as strong as you!” “Ha-ha!” replied Thor, trying to seem in good humor. “Perhaps I deserve your teasing, but I will do my best not to harm the old woman!” With that, the enormous god strode forward and grasped the frail-looking Elli by the arms. Much to his surprise, however, the more Thor struggled, the stronger Elli seemed to be. Whatever grip he tried, the old woman stood firm, unbent by his most powerful techniques. The two figures stood locked in effort for a long while, but in the end, the mighty god was exhausted and had to concede the match. He could not believe that even Utgarda-Loki’s house nurse was stronger than he was! He gathered up his men and left the castle in disgrace. But once he was safely away, Utgarda-Loki stopped him. “Wait, there is something I need to tell you,” he said. “All day long, I have been deceiving you. I did this so that you would know that your strength is no match for my magic. I do not want you as my ruler!” Thor felt anger rising in his throat, but he was not convinced. “Tell me how it was done,” he demanded. So the master of Utgard explained the illusions he had been using all day. “When Loki had his eating contest, he thought he was competing with a person, but, actually, Logi was fire itself! And the horn that you drank from, Thor, was actually attached to the sea! We were all shocked that you were able to drink as much as you did. And as for the cat, that was the most frightening of all. For what you believed to be my cat was actually the world serpent Jormungand! If you had succeeded in lifting it all the way, the world would have ended.” Thor was furious, but he still wanted to know the rest. “And what of the old nurse Elli?” he demanded through clenched teeth. “Ah,” replied Utgarda-Loki, “the truth is that everyone who saw you wrestle was amazed at how long you lasted! Even the best among us is no match for Elli once she takes hold. You may know her better by another name: Old Age.” With that, Thor flew into a rage. He raised his hammer to strike Utgarda-Loki, but the tricky giant had already disappeared. And when Thor’s company turned back to attack the castle, they found that it had gone, as well!

Element Focus: Language Usage In what ways does the use of Elli and Logi as personifications of abstract ideas make Thor and Loki’s feats more impressive?

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References Cited Bean, Thomas. 2000. Reading in the Content Areas: Social Constructivist Dimensions. In Handbook of Reading Research, vol. 3, eds. M. Kamil, P. Mosenthal, P. D. Pearson, and R. Barr. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum. Bromley, Karen. 2004. Rethinking Vocabulary Instruction. The Language and Literacy Spectrum 14:3–12. Melville, Herman. 1851. Moby Dick. New York: Harper. Nagy, William, and Richard C. Anderson. 1984. How Many Words Are There in Printed School English? Reading Research Quarterly 19 (3): 304–330. National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers. 2010. Common Core Standards. http://www.corestandards.org/the-standards. Oatley, Keith. 2009. Changing Our Minds. Greater Good: The Science of a Meaningful Life, Winter. http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/chaning_our_minds. Pinnell, Gay Su. 1988. Success of Children At Risk in a Program that Combines Writing and Reading. Technical Report No. 417 (January). Reading and Writing Connections. Richek, Margaret. 2005. Words Are Wonderful: Interactive, Time-Efficient Strategies to Teach Meaning Vocabulary. The Reading Teacher 58 (5): 414–423. Riordan, Rick. 2005. The Lightning Thief. London: Puffin Books. Sachar, Louis. 2000. Holes. New York, NY: Dell Yearling. Snicket, Lemony. 1999. A Series of Unfortunate Events. New York: HarperCollins. Tomlinson, Carol Ann and Marcia. B. Imbeau. 2010. Leading and Managing a Differentiated Classroom. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Zunshine, Lisa. 2006. Why We Read Fiction: Theory of Mind and the Novel. Columbus, OH: The Ohio State University Press.

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#50987—Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mythology

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Help all students access classic literature! Engage and inspire students to read and comprehend a variety of classic fiction pieces with the Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction series. Each book in the series contains 15 excerpted exemplar texts that have been leveled at four distinct reading levels and organized to support the teaching of key fiction concepts such as theme, setting, and character. Leveled comprehension questions follow each text to promote class discussions, collaboration, and ensure students’ success. The Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction series is a great tool for differentiating and motivating all students as they work to comprehend and respond to texts of varying complexity.

Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Mystery Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Shakespeare

Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Humor

Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Fantasy & Science Fiction

Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Historical Fiction

Leveled Texts for Classic Fiction: Adventure

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