BOOK REVIEW - The Goat Foot God
Michael Gleason
978-1438233666 107 pages Paperback $13.99 (U.S.) available from
www.createspace.com
This book, much like Pan himself, is liminal. It is scholarly in many
instances and on multiple levels as well as entertaining and eminently
readable. It is not, however a book about the rituals and invocations of
the goat foot god. There are other books devoted to these subjects, and you
will find many of them listed in the 9+ pages of bibliography.
Diotima has written books and articles on a wide range of topics ranging
from mythology to contemporary fiction. This is her second offering to come
out under the auspices of Bibliotheca Alexandrina and, like all their
offerings to date, deserves a spot in your library.
The author raises a number of questions in this book, but makes very little
effort to answer them. This is not because of a lack of understanding, but
because of a need for personal understanding. How she understands and
relates to Pan is not as important as how the reader understands and relates
to him.
Various perceptions of Pan, from those of "ancient Greece" to modern
philosophers are explored and explained (as much as possible), and their
relevance to modern day life is looked at as well. For such a small book,
there is a wealth of thought contained herein.
Like all of the offerings from Bibliotheca Alexandrina thus far, the
production values of this book are excellent. It is well-made and a quality
product. Check out their website (www.neosalexandria.org) to learn more
about this organization and their goals.
I am proud to have this book, and the others from Bibliotheca Alexandrian,
in my library. I am sure that you will share that pleasure.