The Classical Greek Reader

By Kenneth J. Atchity and Kenneth Atchity

Book Overview

Scholarly commentary on the nuances of Greek writing fills library shelves, even entire libraries. Yet nothing can take the place of the documents themselves. The Classical Greek Reader marks an exciting departure from the traditional anthology approach to Greek literature and thought. By focusing not only on the big names but also on the less-familiar voices--the women, doctors, storytellers, herbalists, and romance writers--we are offered a glimpse of ancient Greece as we have rarely seen it.

Kenneth J. Atchity provides the reader with firsthand access to literary, artistic, social, political, religious, scientific, and philosophical texts that shaped Greek thinking. From Homeric epics to the histories of Plutarch, and from the poems of Korinna to the romances of Heliodorus, this invaluable reference provides readers with modern translations of the voices that shaped the classical Greek spirit. Each entry contains an introduction identifying the author and providing information that allows readers to consider these ancient texts in a new light.
Here are the wonders of the Greek world presented in a modern, accessible manner, perfect for those looking to refresh their acquaintance with the classics and for those who have yet to explore the exciting intellectual energy of the ancient Greek world.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195123034
• ISBN13: 9780195123036
• Release Date: August 1998
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 470 Pages
• Weight: 1.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 7.4" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Just the Thing to Pique Your Interest in the Classics

I have long been interested in classical Greek and Roman civilization, and have spent hours thumbing through the wonderful Loeb Classics library editions jotting down random bits of wisdom or hilarious observations. Before I found Atchity and McKenna's book, however, I never quite knew how to tie it all together. The book's style is far more interesting than an encycolpedia's style, but the volume of information is perfect for novices. The chapters consist of chronological excerpts from a wide variety of Greek academics. Whether your interest is history, literature, philosophy, art, math, science, or an amalgam of any or all of these, you will find something fascinating to read here. Parents of high school and college students should think about giving this book as a gift to their children--it would be invaluable to students in the arts and sciences.