JURGEN

Rarely in this age of action figures and product tie-ins does one come across a work as boldly and unapologetically erudite, urbane, and steeped in folklore, mythology, and literature as this early fantasy classic. Written in 1919 by James Branch Cabell, JURGEN employs chivalry, philosophy, mild eroticism, humor, and high poetic prose to celebrate man's desire for the perfect mate. Think Shakespeare crossed with Philip Roth. This production is just as unapologetically smart and urbane as the book. JURGEN's vocabulary is enormous, and John Rubinstein gives a fine, clear reading as the hero, while Melissa Greenspan, Ann Marie Lee, and Lorna Raver give depth and voices to the many heroines (from Guinevere to Helen of Troy). The entire production is like listening to a banquet of words. B.P. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 02]