MASTERPIECES OF ANCIENT GREEK LITERATURE

David Schenker's enthusiasm for his topic is impressive, even infectious. These 36 lectures range in subject from Homer through Herodotus and Plato. Whether he is explaining epic poetry, history, or philosophy, Schenker clearly loves what he's studying. This passion comes through most intensely when he recites translations of the brief lyrics, especially when he retells stories from Homer or the Homeric Hymns. While Schenker does step back to explain the social and historical contexts that produced these works, it's clear that the works aren't historical set pieces to him. His explanations are always fun and useful, and the retellings of the myths themselves are so energetically delivered that it's like listening to an ancient Greek bard. G.T.B. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]