©1999, Canon Press, 394 pages in paperback.

Christians should study classical literature.  This statement  has frequently been made in our generation, most likely sparked by the rise of classical, Christian schools.  In this volume, the author turns our attention to the value of such a study by examing a number of  Greek and Roman writings.

Before looking at the material, Leithart defends the study of these ancient epics and dramas.  Their value rests in their being approached from a Christian mindset.  The goal is not to exalt the Greek or Roman mind but to better glorify and enjoy God.  These selections highlight such ancient topics as sacrifice, the heroic, and revenge.  Scripture speaks to these, as well as to many  other themes.

Theogony, the Iliad, the Odyssey, and the Aenid are examined in a very clear, insightful, and informative manner.  Attention is turned  to Greek dramas such as The Eumenides and Oedipus Tyrannus.  Each drama is explained from a Christian perspective.

Leithart looks at the various works in sections and provides review and thought questions for each division.  Answers to these questions are not supplied.  This means that the reader has to delve into the work and cannot rely on the author’s conclusions or insights.

Leithart brings to the book a valuable background in classical thinking.  This enables the reader to have a better awareness of character action and reaction in the various studies.

In reading this book, I was reminded of the relevance of these classics for our own day.  What is our culture’s view of the heroic?  How does this compare with the Greek view and more importantly with the biblical view? One cannot avoid noticing how the Greek and Roman gods  acted so unholy, that is, so humanly, in their relationships with one another.  Our current culture has redefined God to reflect our own ideals.  Man thinks that individuals would not have performed certain deeds or events in history, therefore God surely would not have allowed them.  Thus He has no control over them.  Man can often think of excuses why God will understand humanity succumbing to temptation.  Throughout his study, Leithart reminds us that God is holy.  We are to be, by God’s grace, increasingly conformed to God’s image rather than foolishly seeking to fashion God into our image.

One must note the prominence of revenge and terror in a society that has no concept of Christ’s atonement or of a God Who ultimately brings justice.  Again, there is much food for thought as the author compares the Greek concept of revenge and terror to current cultural views and scriptural teaching.

There are numerous other topics covered in this valuable work.

The author has discussed a few Greek works that are beneficial for our study.  He shows that there is no religiously neutral ground, even in the reading of ancient literature.  He highlights the importance of integrating Christian thinking into every aspect of life.  This is a helpful book for the student who has a class  assignment. It is, also, useful for teachers or parents who are examining this material.  However, anyone can read this volume and expect to gain a heightened awareness of the importance of Christian thinking to all of life and the great void that exists in societies that are not undergirded by such thinking.

Review ©2007 Byron Snapp, Hampton, Virginia