Product Description

This series of "Companions" is designed for readers who approach the authors of the ancient world with little or no knowledge of Latin or Greek, or of the classical world. The commentaries accompany readily available translations, and the series should be of value to students of Classical Civilization Studies for GCSE and A Level and at university. Students of ancient history should also find useful the commentary on some of their source materials. Each volume in the series includes the following: an introduction to the author and his work, with reference to scholarly views; a commentary providing explanation of detail, historical background, and a discussion of difficult or key passages; and periodic summaries of situation or content. This book provides a line-by-line commentary on Homer's "Odyssey" that explains the factual details, mythological allusions, and Homeric conventions that a student or general reader could not be expected to bring to an initial encounter with the "Odyssey". It also illuminates epic style, Homer's methods of composition, the structure of work, and his characterization. An introduction describes the features of oral poetry and looks at the history of the text of the "Odyssey".

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #114733 in Books
• Published on: 1991-06-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 256 pages

Customer Reviews

Great companion to the Lattimore's translation
This is essential to anyone wanting to study or understand Lattimore's (or any) translation of the "Odyssey" deeper. Useful for understanding the traditions behind the writing of the original.

A reader not the origional
This is a 'reader' and not the origional text! So don't be mislead by the previous comment. It is a good companion to Lattimore's translation, which is itself probably one of the best. Though at time of writing the translation appears not to be immediately available.

Get both if you wish to study The Odyssey but can not read Classical Greek. Recommended.

Camp, Deceit and Adventure in Ancient Greece
I had to read this book for my degree so with a sense of dread I embarked on this epic tale. To my sheer delight and amazement I found it to be wholly absorbing and utterly enjoyable. Melodrama abounds, giants are defeated, Gods invoked and rough seas are crossed on planks for days at a time - no mean feat but for Odysseus it is all in a days work. All in all one of the best tales I have ever read!! Get over the fact it is a greek translation and incredibly long and enjoy!!