Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
B explained
This chapter provides an alphabetical listing of mythological, legendary, and historical figures, places, and concepts, including deities, heroes, and locations from Greek, Roman, Norse, Celtic, and other traditions.
What happens
This chapter provides an alphabetical listing of mythological, legendary, and historical figures, places, and concepts, including deities, heroes, and locations from Greek, Roman, Norse, Celtic, and other traditions.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of Tristram’s brief reunion with…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Heroism and the Quest
Entries like Bellerophon, Beowulf, and Arthur's knights highlight heroic deeds and quests.
- Cultural Transmission and Education
The chapter serves as a compendium of mythological and historical knowledge, transmitting cultural narratives.
Characters to notice
- Baldur
Son of Odin, representing the sun-god in Norse mythology.
- Bellerophon
Demigod and conqueror of the Chimaera.
- Beowulf
Hero and king of the Swedish Geats.
- Sir Bohort
King and a knight of Arthur.
- Bradamante
Sister to Rinaldo and a female warrior.
Key passages
“Baldur (Balˈdur), son of Odin, and representing in Norse mythology the sun-god.”
Baldur, Odin's son, is the Norse sun-god.
Identifies Baldur's role in Norse mythology.
“Bellerophon (Bel-lerˈo-phon), demigod, conqueror of the Chimaera.”
Bellerophon, a demigod, defeated the Chimaera.
Summarizes Bellerophon's heroic feat.
“Beowulf (Beˈo-wulf), hero and king of the Swedish Geats.”
Beowulf was a hero and king of the Geats in Sweden.
Describes Beowulf's identity and origin.
