The Homeric Hymns: A New Prose Translation; and Essays, Literary and Mythological
Andrew Lang
Sep 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
106
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
reportRatings and reviews aren’t verified Learn More
About this ebook
In "The Homeric Hymns," Andrew Lang presents an illuminating collection of ancient Greek hymns dedicated to various gods and divine figures, traditionally attributed to Homer. Lang's literary style is characterized by its elegant prose and meticulous attention to the nuances of the original texts, which allows for a rich exploration of themes such as piety, human-divine interaction, and the cultural significance of myths. Set against the backdrop of the oral traditions that predate and inform much of classical literature, this collection not only serves as a testament to the artistry of early Greek poetry but also enriches our understanding of the religious and social fabric of ancient Greece. Andrew Lang, a Scottish poet, novelist, and folklorist, was deeply immersed in the study of mythology and comparative literature. His extensive background in classical texts, combined with his passion for folklore, propelled him to collect and translate these hymns, making them accessible to a contemporary audience. Lang's scholarly endeavors, including his work on the "Blue Fairy Book" series, were fueled by a desire to preserve and illuminate the cultural heritage of diverse traditions, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the field of folklore studies. I highly recommend "The Homeric Hymns" to readers eager to delve into the foundational myths of Western literature. Lang's adept translations breathe new life into these ancient verses, making them both approachable and thought-provoking. This collection not only enhances one's appreciation of Greek mythology but also invites readers to reflect on the timeless connection between humanity and the divine.
About the author
Andrew Lang (1844–1912) was a Scottish writer, poet, critic, and contributor to the field of anthropology. He is arguably most recognized for his work as a collector and publisher of folk and fairy tales. Lang's educational background in the Classics is reflected in his scholarly work, 'The Homeric Hymns' — a rich collection of ancient Greek hymns celebrating individual gods. These were initially attributed to Homer, though later scholarship has deemed them the product not of a single author but of a poetic tradition. Lang's literary style is characterized by his careful, yet accessible translation of such works, and his ability to render ancient texts with both scholarly accuracy and a touch of Victorian fluency (Lang, A. 'The Homeric Hymns', 1899). His efforts contributed significantly to the popularization of myth and folklore during his time. Lang's extensive body of work also includes literary criticism, history, and books for children, among which his Fairy Books series remain widely beloved. Through his writings, Lang displayed an enduring passion for mythological narratives and their cultural significance. His influence persists in the fields of folkloristics and the study of mythology, evidencing his role as a prominent figure in the literary and anthropological landscapes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
