Homeric Hymns (Focus Classical Library)
by Susan C. Shelmerdine

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Book Reviews of Homeric Hymns (Focus Classical Library)

Book Review: A divine Homeric Hymns
Summary: 5 Stars

Professor Susan Shelmerdine's translation of the Homeric Hymns is an ideal introduction to these 33 hymns dedicated to the various Olympian gods. In clear, lively prose, she explains the hymns' literary tradition, myth sources, and forms. In easy-to-access on-the-page footnotes, she explains the relevant background that makes the hymns clear and easy to understand. But what makes her translation first-rate is that the poems are written in a clear, engaging voice that is both true to ancient Greek stylistics and yet sounds as contemporary as today. For example, this description of the abduction of Persephone by Hades:

"But the wide-pathed ground gaped open
along the Plain of Nysa, where the lord who receives many [Hades} sprang out
with his immortal horses, the son of Kronos, worshipped under many names.
He seized her against her will and on his golden chariot
carried her off wailing. And she cried aloud with a shrill voice,
But no one either of the gods or mortal men
heard her cry, not even the olives with their splendid fruit."

In addition, the book provides pictures of the gods taken from ancient Greek art, genealogy charts, and relevant maps. If you are taking a mythology class or just want an authentic introduction to stories of the ancient Greek gods, Susan Shelmerdine's Homeric Hymns is an excellent place to start.

Summary of Homeric Hymns (Focus Classical Library)

Ancient Books

• Subjects > History > Ancient
• Literature & Fiction > Classics
• Drama
• Poetry