Singers, Heroes, and Gods in the Odyssey

by Charles Segal

Book Overview

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...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0801487269
• ISBN13: 9780801487262
• Release Date: March 2001
• Publisher: Cornell University Press
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Singers, heroes, and gods in the odyssey

The book came on time and was very useful in the class I needed it in

A welcome addition the growing body of erudite commentary

The Odyssey is one of the landmark treasures of Western literature. In Singers, Heroes, And Gods In The Odyssey, Charles Segal (Professor of Greek and Latin at Harvard University) offers an insightful and literate commentary that will enable readers to enjoy a fresh and informed appreciation for this classic Hellenic adventure tale. Segal addresses this epic poem's theology, economics, heroism, underlying themes, and anthropomorphism. Of special interest is Segal's analysis and presentation of the hero's development and articulation through experience, combative performance, cult and ritual. Singers, Heroes, And Gods In The Odyssey is a welcome addition the growing body of erudite commentary on the enduringly popular epic poetry of Homer.