Homer On Life And Death (C Cpb T Clarendon Paperbacks)

Disappointing with Amazon, meant for my sister Christmas present, being a Prime member ordered on the 20th December delivered on the 30th. Next day??Jasper Griffin was indeed an amazing expert on Homer; this book is a concise and detailed description and analysis on every aspect of Homer without pretentiousness. It is clear and incredibly readable. Unlike other scholarly texts on Homer, Griffin makes plenty of links to other ancient cultures and literatures around the same period, such as the Near Eastern literature, demonstrating how they influenced the first work of western literature. 5/5 in terms of content!However, the printing of the book leaves something to be desired. When compared to earlier editions of the same book, the title page is far blurrier, and the text is more blotchy and dark, although still legible. In terms of printing and publication, 4/5 would be generous, which unfortunately lets down the work of Griffin.

The British Classicist is alive and kicking in the form of Jasper Griffin, and "Homer on Life and Death" is a contribution by a a formidable intellect who brings his subject to life in a book that deserves much greater praise. Although widely known and respected in limited academic circles, Griffin's classic book will emerge as a key commentary on not only Homer, but classical themes in Greek literature. Chapter IV on Pathos, death and objectivity is just about the best commentary on a complex subject ever written.

Absolutely brilliant book by a world expert on Homer. His exposition is always illustrated by a deft use of quotations, in Greek with accurate translation. Every student of classical Greek texts should possess a copy of this slim book, a point of departure for appreciating the Iliad and Odyssey which are among the world's great artistic achievements.It is astounding that it is out of print. Wake up, Clarendon Press, if you still exist.