Classics expert Paula James highlights the varied artistic interpretations of Icarus from Greek and Roman mythology, covering Ovid's Metamorphoses, the painting of Bruegel, and the poetry of W. H. Auden.

The story of Icarus and his tragic death from flying too close to the sun is a myth referenced repeatedly in creative works and popular culture.

The story was first told by Greek poets and then by the Roman poet Ovid.

As with all myths and classic literature, a critical reading can reveal symbolism and metaphors that speak to its relevance to the wider human experience.

Paula James is a classical studies instructor at The Open University who has written several academic publications on Ovid's epic poem, Metamorphoses, and other myths.

Icarus: Entering the World of Myth explores the representation of Icarus by Ovid in Metamorphoses and how this compares to subsequent works by other writers and artists.