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Thomas Bulfinch (July 15, 1796 - May 27, 1867) was an American writer, best known for his work 'Bulfinch's Mythology: The Age of Fable' (1855). Bulfinch was born in Newton, Massachusetts, and was a part of a well-educated family which fostered an environment ripe for his future scholarly pursuits. He graduated from Harvard University in 1814 and proceeded to a career in banking, but his legacy was secured through his contributions to literature. Bulfinch aimed to popularize classic myths of Greece and Rome, alongside medieval and Norse legends. 'The Age of Fable' is his most famous work, an accessible reference that has informed public consciousness with the stories of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures for generations. His retellings were crafted in such a manner that they could be appreciated by a lay audience, eschewing scholarly jargon for clear, enjoyable prose. The book has been highly acclaimed for its success in making ancient stories available to a readership unfamiliar with classical literature. Besides 'The Age of Fable', Bulfinch also published 'The Age of Chivalry' (1858), and 'Legends of Charlemagne' (1863), which together with his first work are collectively known as 'Bulfinch's Mythology', an essential resource for classical myths and legends. Bulfinch's influence is evident in the enduring popularity of these works, his name synonymous with the study of mythology in the public imagination. |
