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Homeric Hymns

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( 6,712 ratings, 367 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Homeric Hymns presents sparkling new translations of ancient Greek hymns that explore archaic mythology, ritual, cosmology, and psychology. Poet and translator Sarah Ruden brings clarity and poetic skill to these foundational texts, illuminating the origins and stories of gods and creation as understood in the ancient world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This edition suits students and scholars of classics, mythology enthusiasts, and readers interested in ancient Greek culture and literature. It is also ideal for educators seeking a reliable and engaging text for teaching mythology and literature courses.

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In this new translation of the Homeric Hymns, Sarah Ruden employs a melodious and flexible non-rhyming line of eleven syllables, offering a close approximation of Greek hexameter verse in natural English rhythms. The result is a Homeric Hymns marked by its accuracy, simplicity, and economy of movement. Sheila Murnaghan's Introduction situates the

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Poet and translator Sarah Ruden offers a sparkling new translation of one of our prime sources for archaic Greek mythology, ritual, cosmology, and psychology.

Homeric Hymns provides a fascinating glimpse into the religious practices and beliefs of ancient Greece. Ruden's lyrical translation captures the beauty and power of the original hymns, making them accessible to a modern audience. Through her skilful rendering, readers are invited to explore the timeless myths and divine narratives that have shaped Western culture.

One of the hymns vividly portrays the origins of the god Dionysus:

'Some say that you were born, O Stitched-In god,; At windy Icarus or Draconum; Or Naxos or the deep-whirled Alpheus river; To Semele and Zeus who loves the thunder.; Others, my lord, claim Thebes was your beginning; Liars. Far off from men, creation's father; Engendered you unknown to white-armed Hera…'

Ruden's translation of Homeric Hymns is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in ancient mythology and the enduring influence of Greek literature. It promises to engage readers with its vibrant storytelling and insightful commentary on the human condition.

Series: Hackett Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Sarah Ruden's translation is praised for being clear, lean, and delightfully readable, making it suitable for both academic and general audiences. Reviewers highlight the elegant poetic expression and helpful, unobtrusive notes. The introduction by Sheila Murnaghan is noted for effectively guiding readers, especially newcomers, through the longer hymns. Overall, the translation is considered convenient, accessible, and excellent for classroom use as well as personal reading.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780872207257

Publisher: Hackett Publishing Co, Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 September 2005

Country: United States

Imprint: Hackett Publishing Co, Inc

Illustration: none

Contributors:

  • Translated by Sarah Ruden
  • Introduction and notes by Sheila Murnaghan
  • Translated by Sarah Ruden

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 142g

Pages: 128

About the Author

Translated by Sarah Ruden; Introduction and Notes by Sheila Murnaghan

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