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thiudans 's review for:
The Odyssey
by Homer
This is the best translation of this book into English. It has not been publicized well like some of the inferior older translations. It is also the most underrated. It has not been on the radar of professors across the country, but should be the choice of all, and probably will be once they start reading it and it gains more attention.
The chief quality which distinguishes it from other translations is the preservation of the original meter (albeit adapted for accent rather than quantity). Thus it conveys the musicality of the original quite well.
Another good aspect is the use throughout of solid, conservative language that does not jar, but is free of both archaisms and colloquialisms. The names are generally in a more correct Greek spelling (to the joy of professors everywhere), with Ks (instead of Cs) and diaereses to help with pronunciation.
Rodney Merrill understands epic poetry as well as poetic language. It is clear that he has a firm grasp on the big picture and full ability in finessing every word and phrase for the right nuance, without unfairly promoting any certain school of interpretation.
The chief quality which distinguishes it from other translations is the preservation of the original meter (albeit adapted for accent rather than quantity). Thus it conveys the musicality of the original quite well.
Another good aspect is the use throughout of solid, conservative language that does not jar, but is free of both archaisms and colloquialisms. The names are generally in a more correct Greek spelling (to the joy of professors everywhere), with Ks (instead of Cs) and diaereses to help with pronunciation.
Rodney Merrill understands epic poetry as well as poetic language. It is clear that he has a firm grasp on the big picture and full ability in finessing every word and phrase for the right nuance, without unfairly promoting any certain school of interpretation.