Title
A Companion to The Iliad (Phoenix Books),New
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Those who are able to read Homer in Greek have ample recourse to commentaries, but the vast majority who read the Iliad in translation have not been so well servedthe many available translations contain few, if any, notes. For these readers, Malcolm M. Willcock provides a linebyline commentary that explains the many factual details, mythological allusions, and Homeric conventions that a student or general reader could not be expected to bring to an initial encounter with the Iliad.The notes, which always relate to particular lines in the text, have as their prime aim the simple, factual explanation of things the inexperienced reader would be unlikely to have at his or her command (What is a hecatomb? Who is Atreus' son?). Second, they enhance an appreciation of the Iliad by illuminating epic style, Homer's methods of composition, the structure of the work, and the characterization of the major heroes. The 'Homeric Question,' concerning the origin and authorship of the Iliad, is also discussed.Professor Willcock's commentary is based on Richmond Lattimore's translationregarded by many as the outstanding translation of the present generationbut it may be used profitably with other versions as well. This clearly written commentary, which includes an excellent select bibliography, will make one of the touchstones of Western literature accessible to a wider audience.
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- Q: What is 'A Companion to The Iliad' about? A: 'A Companion to The Iliad' is a handbook designed for readers of the Iliad, providing a line-by-line commentary that explains mythological allusions, Homeric conventions, and factual details that may be challenging for new readers.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'A Companion to The Iliad' is Malcolm M. Willcock, who offers insights and explanations aimed at enhancing the reader's understanding of the Iliad.
- Q: What is the publication date of this book? A: 'A Companion to The Iliad' was published on May 1, 1976.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners as it provides clear explanations of complex themes and terms that may be unfamiliar to first-time readers of the Iliad.
- Q: How long is the book? A: 'A Companion to The Iliad' contains 302 pages, offering a comprehensive commentary on the text.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: The book is available in paperback binding, making it lightweight and easy to handle.
- Q: Can this commentary be used with any translation of the Iliad? A: Yes, the commentary in 'A Companion to The Iliad' can be used with any translation of the Iliad, although it is based on Richmond Lattimore's translation.
- Q: Does this book include a bibliography? A: Yes, 'A Companion to The Iliad' includes an excellent select bibliography for further reading and research.
- Q: What category does this book fall under? A: 'A Companion to The Iliad' falls under the category of Criticism & Theory.
- Q: What is the primary focus of the commentary in this book? A: The primary focus of the commentary is to provide factual explanations and enhance appreciation of the Iliad by discussing its style, structure, and major themes.