The History of Literature 713 The Odyssey (with Daniel Mendelsohn) | The History of Literature Podcast Tour!
Jul 3, 2025
Join Daniel Mendelsohn, a distinguished humanities professor and acclaimed translator, as he brings fresh insights to Homer's timeless epic, The Odyssey. They explore the intricate themes of heroism and the search for home, highlighting Odysseus's complex character. Mendelsohn shares his translation journey, bridging the ancient with the modern, and emphasizes the evolving nature of storytelling. They delve into poignant moments of homecoming and identity, revealing how these ancient narratives continue to resonate in today's world.
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First Encounter with The Odyssey
- Mendelsohn first read The Odyssey in ninth grade after a high school teacher recommended it during a cocktail party.
- The epic immediately captivated him and set the course for his lifelong scholarly focus.
Delaying Hero's Entrance
- Homer delays introducing Odysseus until book five, building suspense through others' stories about him.
- This clever narrative choice enhances curiosity and emotional investment from the audience.
Student Reactions to The Odyssey
- Students often emotionally respond to scenes like Odysseus and his dog Argos' reunion.
- Modern readers increasingly see Odysseus as a complex, flawed antihero rather than a straightforward hero.
