A Wonder Book for Girls & Boys A Retelling of Classical Myths for Young Readers

"A Wonder Book for Girls & Boys" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a collection of six stories that reimagine classical myths for a young audience. The excerpt provided focuses on the tale of Perseus and the Gorgon's head. Perseus, the son of Danae, is tasked by the wicked King Polydectes to retrieve the head of Medusa, one of the three Gorgons, as a bridal gift. The Gorgons are fearsome creatures with snakes for hair, and anyone who looks directly at them is turned to stone. Perseus, with the help of the god Quicksilver (Hermes) and his sister, embarks on this perilous quest. Quicksilver provides Perseus with a polished shield to view Medusa indirectly, a magical sword, and directions to the Three Gray Women, who possess the knowledge of where to find the Nymphs. These Nymphs provide Perseus with winged sandals, a magic wallet, and a helmet of invisibility. Using these gifts, Perseus successfully beheads Medusa by looking at her reflection in the shield, thus avoiding her petrifying gaze. He then escapes the wrath of the remaining Gorgons by flying away, aided by his magical items. Hawthorne's retelling emphasizes the themes of bravery, cleverness, and the triumph of good over evil, making these ancient stories accessible and engaging for children.