The transformation of people into animals, plants, and stones is one of the most common and characteristic themes of Greek mythology, embodying as well some of the most mysterious and fantastic episodes in a mythology that is sometimes considered to be relatively realistic and lacking in fantasy. This book, the first study of these myths in English, analyzes the various ways in which they imagine and explore the experience of changing one's form. Forbes Irving's unusual approach is to look for their meaning not in long-forgotten rituals or historical events, but in their imaginative appeal as stories.

"Fills a very special niche....Will appeal to anyone whose research interests include Greek mythology and religion....His work will not be quickly superseded."

"A handy compendium of transformation tales from the Greek world....Offers many new insights....Might well be used as an adjunct in the college classroom."

"This is a valuable reference text for any scholar of classical mythology."

"A splendid reference guide. Recommended for undergraduate and graduate libraries with holdings in literature, folklore, mythology, anthropology."