Theogony and Works and Days

Hesiod, who lived in Boetia in the late eighth century BC, is one of the oldest known, and possibly the oldest of Greek poets. His Theogony contains a systematic genealogy of the gods from the beginning of the world and an account of the struggles of the Titans. In contrast, Works and Days is a compendium of moral and practical advice on husbandry, and throws unique and fascinating light on archaic Greek society. As well as offering the earliest known sources for the myths of Pandora, Prometheus and the Golden Age, Hesiod's poetry provides a valuable account of the ethics and superstitions of the society in which he lived. Unlike Homer, Hesiod writes about himself and his family, and he stands out as the first personality in European literature. This new translation, by a leading expert on the Hesiodic poems combines accuracy with readability. It is accompanied by an introduction and explanatory notes.

“'West ... has now produced fine translations of these poems into fresh, lively and eminently readable English. It must quickly establish itself as the translation for English-speaking readers.'Jennifer R. March, University College, London. Classical Review”

'This is a very welcome publication, an authoritative translation of a major greek author at a reasonable price. Essential reading for classicists'J. G. Hourie, Dept. of Classics, University of Edinburgh' Readers who have no previous knowledge of Hesoid will find this an extremely accessible book, written in such a way that the non-specialist will be able to read, follow and enjoy these works. This is in part due to Professor West's excellent translations and partly due to his real and profound interest in his subject, which is further reflectd by a most informative and useful introduction.'The Greek Rreview'So much better than the corresponding Penguin translation of Hesiod. The introduction is splendid.'P. Walcot, University College, Cardiff.'The edition is admirably produced, mercifully free from misprints ... an edition with a stimulating Introduction, a very readable translation'JACT Review

David W. Tandy is Associate Professor of Classics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and coeditor of "From Political Economy to Anthropology: Situating Economic Life in Past Societies (1994). Walter C. Neale is Professor Emeritus of Economics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and author of "Developing Rural India: Policies, Politics, and Progress (1990).

Hesiod, who lived in Boetia in the late eighth century BC, is one of the oldest known, and possibly the oldest of Greek poets. His Theogony contains a systematic genealogy of the gods from the beginning of the world and an account of the struggles of the Titans. In contrast, Works and Days is a compendium of moral and practical advice on husbandry, and throws unique and fascinating light on archaic Greek society. As well as offering the earliest known sources for the myths of Pandora, Prometheus and the Golden Age, Hesiod's poetry provides a valuable account of the ethics and superstitions of the society in which he lived. Unlike Homer, Hesiod writes about himself and his family, and he stands out as the first personality in European literature. This new translation, by a leading expert on the Hesiodic poems combines accuracy with readability. It is accompanied by an introduction and explanatory notes.

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