Metamorphoses - Ovid

This is my second reading of David Raeburn's translation of the Metamorphoses, and it still seems a functionable enough version for modern readers to enjoy. Changed from dactylic hexameter to swift English hexameters, the epic poetry is accessible without losing any of the zest or bounce of the original (reportedly, as I can't compare with Latin.) Ovid's world ties together the myths of the Greeks with those of the Romans, weaving a rich tapestry of tales firmly entrenched in the heroic, pastoral, and tragic traditions. Most of the stories are about love and desire between gods and mortals, often resulting in rape or a metamorphosis of some kind. Popular stories are mingled with the lesser known, and the most famous are usually approached from a unique angle to infuse fresh life into the tried and tested. It creates a nice contrast and an appealing catalogue to flit through, but can be read just as effectively in chronological order, as I prefer to approach it.

The book starts with the creation of the world from primordial chaos and spans the entirety of Greek literary history up to the formation of the Roman Empire and apotheosis of Julius Caesar. Admittedly, I am not a fan of the latter, quasi-historical theme, but it is a short section and did not impede my appreciation of the whole. It does help to have some rudimentary background knowledge of who at least some of the household gods are, and it helps to be familiar with both their Greek and Roman names. It remains however, a desirable but non essential requirement for enjoyment, as this edition comes with an extensive glossary for the elucidation of ignorant readers. At an impressive 250+ myths, pointing out my favourites would take up too much space, yet almost all of them demand re-readings. Ovid is at once witty, heartbreaking, sensuously erotic, exquisitely violent, and exceptionally captivating. Highly recommended to anyone who claims to value good literature.

Rating: 5/5