Description
One of the special charms of the Odyssey, according to Charles Segal, is the way it transports readers to fascinating places. Yet despite the appeal of its narrative, the Odyssey is fully understood only when its style, design, and mythical patterns are taken into account as well. Bringing a new richness to interpretation of this epic, Segal looks closely at key forms of social and personal organization which Odysseus encounters in his voyages. Segal also considers such topics as the relationship between bard and audience, the implications of the Odyssey's self-consciousness about its own poetics, and Homer's treatment of the nature of poetry.
About the Author
Charles Segal (1936-2002) taught classics at the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, Princeton University, and Harvard University, where he was Walter C. Klein Professor of the Classics. Among his many books are, as author, Interpreting Greek Tragedy: Myth, Poetry, Text and Singers, Heroes, and Gods in the "Odyssey", both published by Cornell University Press.
Reviews
Charles Segal offers an insightful and literate commentary that will enable readers to enjoy a fresh and informed appreciation for this classic Hellenic adventure tale.... A welcome addition to the growing body of erudite commentary on the enduringly popular epic poetry of Homer.
* The Bookwatch *The essays in this book furnish very astute, unswervingly literary interpretations of key themes in the Odyssey.... Refreshingly straightforward criticism of a consistently high order.
* Bryn Mawr Classical Review *Book Information
ISBN 9780801487262
Author Charles Segal
Format Paperback
Page Count 264
Imprint Cornell University Press
Publisher Cornell University Press
Weight(grams) 454g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 19mm