The Odyssey Done into English prose By: Unknown (750? BC - 650? BC)
The Odyssey Done into English prose by Unknown is a captivating rendition of Homer's epic poem that takes readers on an incredible journey through ancient Greece. As its title suggests, the translator's identity remains a mystery, but their skill in bringing this legendary tale to life in English prose is undeniable. This version of The Odyssey is a true testament to the timelessness and enduring appeal of this ancient Greek tale. The translator has succeeded in capturing the essence of the original work, preserving its themes, characters, and captivating narrative. The writing style is eloquent and engaging, immersing readers in a world of mythical creatures, heroic quests, and divine interventions. One of the strengths of this translation lies in its ability to convey the rich tapestry of emotions experienced by the characters. The reader is drawn into the highs and lows of Odysseus' journey as he faces numerous challenges, confronts his own flaws, and strives to return home to his beloved Ithaca. The translator's skill in depicting the complexities of human nature and the internal struggles of the characters is evident throughout, making the story relatable and resonant even in a modern context. Furthermore, the translator succeeds in capturing the epic scope of the original work, skillfully depicting the grandeur of the ancient Greek world. From the enchanting islands visited by Odysseus to the treacherous seas he navigates, the vivid descriptions bring each setting to life. The reader is transported to a time of mythical creatures, gods and goddesses, and epic battles. What sets this rendition apart is the translator's ability to make the story accessible to modern readers. They have expertly utilized English prose to retain the spirit and essence of the original, making it easily understandable and enjoyable for a contemporary audience. The language flows smoothly, evoking both the beauty and intensity of Homer's poetic verses while allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the narrative. My only criticism would be the lack of attribution to the translator in this edition. While the mysterious identity adds an intriguing element to the book, it would have been beneficial to readers to know more about the person responsible for this exceptional translation. In conclusion, The Odyssey Done into English prose by Unknown is a remarkable retelling of Homer's epic. It captures the timeless allure of the original work, transporting readers into a world of heroism, adventure, and love. Despite the absence of a known translator, this rendition is a masterful achievement that deserves recognition and is a must-read for anyone seeking to experience the power of ancient Greek literature. First Page: THE ODYSSEY OF HOMER DONE INTO ENGLISH PROSE by S. H. BUTCHER, M.A. AND A. LANG, M.A. PREFACE. There would have been less controversy about the proper method of Homeric translation, if critics bad recognised that the question is a purely relative one, that of Homer there can be no final translation. The taste and the literary habits of each age demand different qualities in poetry, and therefore a different sort of rendering of Homer. To the men of the time of Elizabeth, Homer would have appeared bald, it seems, and lacking in ingenuity, if he had been presented in his antique simplicity. For the Elizabethan age, Chapman supplied what was then necessary, and the mannerisms that were then deemed of the essence of poetry, namely, daring and luxurious conceits. Thus in Chapman's verse Troy must 'shed her towers for tears of overthrow,' and when the winds toss Odysseus about, their sport must be called 'the horrid tennis.' In the age of Anne, 'dignity' and 'correctness' had to be given to Homer, and Pope gave them by aid of his dazzling rhetoric, his antitheses, his nettete, his command of every conventional and favourite artifice. Without Chapman's conceits, Homer's poems would hardly have been what the Elizabethans took for poetry; without Pope's smoothness, and Pope's points, the Iliad and Odyssey would have seemed rude, and harsh in the age of Anne... Continue reading book >>

The Odyssey Done into English prose By: Unknown (750? BC - 650? BC)

The Odyssey Done into English prose by Unknown is a captivating rendition of Homer's epic poem that takes readers on an incredible journey through ancient Greece. As its title suggests, the translator's identity remains a mystery, but their skill in bringing this legendary tale to life in English prose is undeniable.

This version of The Odyssey is a true testament to the timelessness and enduring appeal of this ancient Greek tale. The translator has succeeded in capturing the essence of the original work, preserving its themes, characters, and captivating narrative. The writing style is eloquent and engaging, immersing readers in a world of mythical creatures, heroic quests, and divine interventions.

One of the strengths of this translation lies in its ability to convey the rich tapestry of emotions experienced by the characters. The reader is drawn into the highs and lows of Odysseus' journey as he faces numerous challenges, confronts his own flaws, and strives to return home to his beloved Ithaca. The translator's skill in depicting the complexities of human nature and the internal struggles of the characters is evident throughout, making the story relatable and resonant even in a modern context.

Furthermore, the translator succeeds in capturing the epic scope of the original work, skillfully depicting the grandeur of the ancient Greek world. From the enchanting islands visited by Odysseus to the treacherous seas he navigates, the vivid descriptions bring each setting to life. The reader is transported to a time of mythical creatures, gods and goddesses, and epic battles.

What sets this rendition apart is the translator's ability to make the story accessible to modern readers. They have expertly utilized English prose to retain the spirit and essence of the original, making it easily understandable and enjoyable for a contemporary audience. The language flows smoothly, evoking both the beauty and intensity of Homer's poetic verses while allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

My only criticism would be the lack of attribution to the translator in this edition. While the mysterious identity adds an intriguing element to the book, it would have been beneficial to readers to know more about the person responsible for this exceptional translation.

In conclusion, The Odyssey Done into English prose by Unknown is a remarkable retelling of Homer's epic. It captures the timeless allure of the original work, transporting readers into a world of heroism, adventure, and love. Despite the absence of a known translator, this rendition is a masterful achievement that deserves recognition and is a must-read for anyone seeking to experience the power of ancient Greek literature.

First Page:

THE ODYSSEY OF HOMER

DONE INTO ENGLISH PROSE

by S. H. BUTCHER, M.A.

AND

A. LANG, M.A.

PREFACE.

There would have been less controversy about the proper method of Homeric translation, if critics bad recognised that the question is a purely relative one, that of Homer there can be no final translation. The taste and the literary habits of each age demand different qualities in poetry, and therefore a different sort of rendering of Homer. To the men of the time of Elizabeth, Homer would have appeared bald, it seems, and lacking in ingenuity, if he had been presented in his antique simplicity. For the Elizabethan age, Chapman supplied what was then necessary, and the mannerisms that were then deemed of the essence of poetry, namely, daring and luxurious conceits. Thus in Chapman's verse Troy must 'shed her towers for tears of overthrow,' and when the winds toss Odysseus about, their sport must be called 'the horrid tennis.'

In the age of Anne, 'dignity' and 'correctness' had to be given to Homer, and Pope gave them by aid of his dazzling rhetoric, his antitheses, his nettete, his command of every conventional and favourite artifice. Without Chapman's conceits, Homer's poems would hardly have been what the Elizabethans took for poetry; without Pope's smoothness, and Pope's points, the Iliad and Odyssey would have seemed rude, and harsh in the age of Anne... Continue reading book >>

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Poetry

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