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957 reviews for:

Metamorphoses

Ovid

4.01 AVERAGE

challenging emotional inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Metamorphoses by Ovid, beautifully translated by Stephanie McCarter, is a true gem in the world of classical literature. Having previously explored some of its episodes, delving into the entire book was a captivating experience. McCarter's translation stands out for its clarity and accessibility, making the intricate tales of transformation and mythology come to life with ease.

One of the standout features of this edition is the detailed notes provided by the translator. These notes serve as an invaluable guide, enhancing the reader's comprehension and appreciation of the stories. McCarter's dedication to ensuring readers grasp the nuances of Ovid's work is commendable.

Beyond its literary merits, the book cover is a work of art in itself, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the volume. This attention to detail in presentation is a testament to the care and thought put into this edition.

It is a must-read for anyone with an interest in Greek and Roman myths. It combines readability with scholarly insight, offering a comprehensive and captivating journey through the rich tapestry of ancient storytelling. This edition breathes new life into Ovid's classic, making it accessible and enjoyable for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts of mythology.

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
challenging medium-paced
adventurous dark lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

This is a long read but it covers a lot of Roman myth. If that is something you're interested in, this is a great read. I read this for a Greek and Roman myth class and found it interesting. There are some sections that are not super engaging but there are many stories that make up for that.
adventurous emotional informative medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

idk it’s so robust and full of amazing stories…. political criticisms….. pre capitalistic notions of labor and anti capital……… such a study on gender and transformation and transness 

(3.5-ish stars idk)
I DID IT! I bought this darling in 2019 and I finally finished it!

Things I loved:
(1) This translation is SO GOOD? I love language etc etc we know this
(2) This had so many good quotes omg <3 You wouldn't guess from the title of the chapter, but I think Pythagoras was my favourite.
(3) I definitely don't remember everything I've read and sometimes I was just reading it half-assed. But reading this was so relaxing and calming <3

Things that are meh:
(1) Some chapters..... I'm not naming names but Ovid sure is. If there's a battle scene, then you can be sure everybody and their mother will be there and Ovid *will* name them all. As well as the exact details of their gruesome death. Like I don't CAREEEEEE!
(2) Reading a classic will always be, well, reading a classic. It's never going to be the most interesting book you've read. At least this one gave me a variety of stories <33 Don't think I would've gotten through the book otherwise.

Conclusion: I'm very glad that I read this for two reasons. One, it was interesting to read such a long piece of classical literature and it's crazy to think that these stories were written ages ago. Two, it's finally over and done <3 Now I can scrap this from my TBR and live proudly with the achievement of having read this monster of a book.
adventurous slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous challenging dark tense fast-paced

Expand filter menu Content Warnings