Hawthorne, Nathaniel

Tanglewood Tales

In this classic mythic adventure, Theseus grows up in Troezen hearing the story of his father, King Aegeus of Athens. When he is finally strong enough to lift the stone hiding a sword and sandals, he sets out for Athens and proves his bravery against robbers and other dangers along the road. But his greatest trial comes after he arrives, when jealousy and a poison plot threaten his place in the royal house. The tale ends with a moving recognition scene as Aegeus sees the sword and embraces Theseus as his son.