Homer: Iliad Book XVIII

Author: Homer and R.B. Rutherford Series: Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics

Presents an edition of this outstanding book containing a clear and readable introduction, concise notes on the text and strong literary appreciation.

Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. This edition provides an introduction, text and commentary suitable for intermediate and advanced students of Greek. It includes grammatical and other aid to translation but lays particular emphasis on interpretation and elucidation.

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Summary

Presents an edition of this outstanding book containing a clear and readable introduction, concise notes on the text and strong literary appreciation.

Description

Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. It describes the reaction of the hero Achilles to the death of his closest friend, and his decision to re-enter the conflict even though it means he will lose his own life. The book also includes the forging of the marvellous shield for the hero by the smith-god Hephaestus: the images on the shield are described by the poet in detail, and this description forms the archetypal ecphrasis, influential on many later writers. In an extensive introduction, R. B. Rutherford discusses the themes, style and legacy of the book. The commentary provides line-by-line guidance for readers at all levels, addressing linguistic detail and larger questions of interpretation. A substantial appendix considers the relation between Iliad 18 and the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, which has been prominent in much recent discussion.

Critic Reviews

“'These essays ... introduce students to the main themes and characters of the Iliad ... efficient and suggestive.' Edith Foster, Exemplaria Classica”

'These essays … introduce students to the main themes and characters of the Iliad … efficient and suggestive.' Edith Foster, Exemplaria Classica

About the Author

R. B. Rutherford is Professor of Greek and Latin Literature at the University of Oxford and Student (Tutorial Fellow) of Christ Church. He has published many books and articles on Homer and other classical authors, including an edition of Books XIX and XX of the Odyssey for the Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics series.