"Poem of My Cid: Selections" is a captivating collection of translated poems by Stanley Appelbaum. This book provides readers with a mesmerizing peek into the world of the epic Spanish medieval poem, "Poema de Mio Cid," which dates back to the 12th century. Appelbaum’s skilled translation brings to life carefully chosen excerpts from this legendary work, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the heroic adventures of the renowned hero, El Cid.
One of the standout features of this book is Appelbaum's meticulous approach to translation. He manages to capture the essence and spirit of the original poem, ensuring that the text appeals to readers from all backgrounds. The selection of passages is well-curated, providing a comprehensive narrative of El Cid’s character and his incredible accomplishments.
The poems featured in "Poem of My Cid: Selections" transport readers to the medieval Spanish landscape, rich with chivalry, honor, and epic battles. Through Appelbaum's translation, the cultural and historical context of the original text comes alive, enabling readers to fully immerse themselves in a world of knights, kings, and warriors.
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Moreover, Appelbaum includes an informative introduction that offers essential background information about the poem, its historical context, and its significance in Spanish literature. This introduction serves as a valuable resource for readers who may be new to the poem, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the selected passages.
In conclusion, "Poem of My Cid: Selections" is a remarkable translation by Stanley Appelbaum that introduces a wider audience to the timeless heroics of El Cid. This book serves as an enchanting gateway to the 12th-century epic, appealing to those interested in Spanish literature, medieval poetry, and anyone seeking an immersive reading experience. It is a valuable addition to the libraries of both scholars and enthusiasts alike.
What are readers saying?
The book "Poem of My Cid: Selections (Poema de Mio Cid: Selección)" by Stanley Appelbaum has garnered a mixed reception among readers. On the whole, the book is valued for its English translations of important medieval Spanish literature. The carefully curated selection of poems from "Poema de Mio Cid" provides profound insights into the culture and heroism of medieval Spain. Many readers commend Appelbaum's commitment to preserving the essence of the original text and making it accessible to English-speaking audiences.
Nevertheless, there are some readers who express disappointment with the translation, believing that it lacks the poetic flair and authenticity of the original work. They raise concerns about the language used and the translation's inability to capture the depth and nuances of the original Spanish verses. A few critics argue that Appelbaum's translation may not fully convey the grandeur and beauty of the original poem.
Additionally, several readers appreciate the informative introduction and notes provided by the author. These sections are seen as crucial in understanding the historical context, characters, and themes of the poem. Many readers appreciate how Appelbaum seamlessly incorporates these explanations without overwhelming the reader with excessive detail.
However, there are a few readers who find the introduction and notes to be overly extensive and dense, distracting from the main content. They suggest that a more concise and reader-friendly approach to presenting the background information would improve the book.
To summarize, while "Poem of My Cid: Selections" by Stanley Appelbaum is recognized for its efforts to introduce a classic medieval Spanish poem to English readers, opinions on the success of the translation differ. The book offers valuable insights into the culture, heroism, and themes of the original work, and the introduction and notes are appreciated by many. However, some readers feel that the translation may fall short in capturing the poetic beauty of the original verses. Further, while the informative sections are praised, a minority of readers find them excessively long and wish for a more concise presentation.
PoemOfMyCidSelections MioCidPoem SpanishLiterature