English Translations from the Greek: A Bibliographical Survey by Foster
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Forget novels or epic poems. The 'story' here is the surprising journey of Greek ideas into the English language. Finley Foster's book is a guide, a massive checklist, and a historical record all in one. He systematically catalogs English translations of Greek works published up to his time. He organizes it by author—like Homer, Aristotle, or Euripides—and then lists the different translations that exist for each of their works. He often includes notes about the translators themselves and the quality of their work. The plot, such as it is, follows the evolution of translation style over centuries, showing how our understanding of the Greeks changed.
Why You Should Read It
This isn't a book you read cover-to-cover like a thriller. You dip into it. The magic is in the connections it helps you make. You might look up a translation of a play you love and discover there were five other versions published in the 1800s, each with a different feel. It gives you a new appreciation for the words on the page, reminding you that a translation is an interpretation. It turns the quiet, often-invisible work of translators into a grand, collective project spanning generations. For anyone who loves old books, it feels like a treasure map.
Final Verdict
This is a specialist's book, but it has a wider charm. It's perfect for students of classics, librarians, or collectors who need a reliable reference. But it's also great for the deeply curious general reader who loves literary history. If you enjoy getting lost in footnotes, wondering about the 'how' behind the books you read, and have a soft spot for meticulous, old-school scholarship, you'll find it fascinating. Just don't expect a narrative—expect a wonderfully organized, opinionated museum of words.
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Jackson Hill
8 months agoI had low expectations initially, however the pacing is just right, keeping you engaged. Absolutely essential reading.
David Lopez
1 year agoBeautifully written.
Paul Martin
8 months agoHigh quality edition, very readable.