Euripides: Selected Fragments Vol 2 Aedited with Introductions Translations and Commentaries by C Collard, M J Cropp and J Gibert : Book Review

Euripides by Christopher Collard offers a comprehensive and insightful guide to the life and works of the ancient Greek playwright. Collard, a highly respected scholar in the field, delves into Euripides' enduring legacy through a meticulous examination of his plays and their historical context. The book provides a fresh perspective on Euripides' contributions to Greek tragedy, shedding light on his themes, characters, and dramatic techniques.

Collard begins by giving a concise biography of Euripides, exploring his upbringing, education, and artistic influences. This background sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the playwright's unique style and the social and political issues he tackled in his works. Throughout the book, Collard compares and contrasts Euripides' approach with that of his contemporaries, Aeschylus and Sophocles, highlighting his role in the development of Greek tragedy.

One of the strengths of Collard's analysis is his ability to dissect individual plays, examining their structure, themes, and underlying messages. From well-known tragedies like Medea and The Bacchae to lesser-known works such as Iphigenia at Aulis, Collard explores the nuances and complexities of Euripides' storytelling. He reveals how the playwright pushed the boundaries of traditional tragedy, incorporating satire, psychology, and social commentary.

The book also delves into the historical and cultural context in which Euripides' plays were performed and received. Collard explores how political events, religious beliefs, and societal norms influenced both the creation and reception of these works. This contextual analysis adds depth to the exploration of Euripides' plays, enabling readers to appreciate the political and social relevance of his storytelling.

Overall, Euripides by Christopher Collard is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of ancient Greek literature. Collard's meticulous research and in-depth analysis of Euripides' works make this book engaging and enlightening. Whether readers are familiar with Euripides or approaching his plays for the first time, this book offers a rich exploration of the life and works of one of ancient Greece's most influential playwrights.

What are readers saying?

The book "Euripides" by Christopher Collard has received a variety of reviews from readers. While some praised the book for its thorough analysis and accessible writing style, others believed it lacked depth and failed to capture the essence of Euripides' works.

Many reviewers commended Collard's in-depth analysis of Euripides' plays, highlighting his ability to delve into themes and characters with clarity and insight. They applauded the book's scholarly approach and the author's extensive knowledge of ancient Greek literature. The analysis and interpretations were found to be thought-provoking and engaging, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book, feeling that it lacked the depth they were expecting. They believed that while the book provided a decent overview of Euripides' works, it fell short in capturing the true essence and profound nature of the plays. These readers desired a more nuanced exploration of the themes and the emotional impact that Euripides' works are known for.

A common criticism among some readers was the book's writing style, which they found to be dry and academic. They believed that the prose could have been more engaging and accessible to a wider audience. These readers wished for a livelier presentation of the material, stating that the book felt too much like a scholarly text rather than a captivating read.

Despite receiving mixed feedback, Collard's book has its merits. It offers a comprehensive analysis of Euripides' plays, showcasing the author's deep understanding of ancient Greek literature. However, some readers felt that the book lacked depth and failed to capture the emotional essence of the plays. The writing style was also a point of contention for some readers, who wished for a more engaging and accessible approach. Overall, the book may be most suitable for those seeking a scholarly analysis of Euripides' works rather than a more captivating exploration of his artistic prowess.

Euripides GreekTragedy ClassicLiterature