The Complete Plays : Book Review

"The Complete Plays" is an extensive compilation of all the plays authored by Aristophanes, a highly acclaimed Greek playwright. This comprehensive anthology comprises eleven plays that beautifully demonstrate Aristophanes' renowned wit, humor, and satirical genius. Through these works, readers are offered a captivating window into the intriguing society of Ancient Greece.

Among the most renowned plays in this collection is "Lysistrata," a comedy that revolves around a group of women who employ the strategy of withholding sexual privileges from their husbands as a means to end the Peloponnesian War. This play delves into themes of gender dynamics, war, and power, showcasing Aristophanes' remarkable ability to blend his sharp wit and clever wordplay.

Another remarkable inclusion is "The Birds," which follows the tale of two men who embark on the ambitious journey to construct a city in the sky, employing the assistance of birds. This play brilliantly weaves an imaginative storyline with satirical commentary on human folly, exemplifying Aristophanes' mastery at combining fantasy and social critique.

In "The Clouds," Aristophanes presents a comedic depiction of Socrates as a clumsy and foolish character, ridiculing the intellectual trends of his time. This play delves into themes of education, sophistry, and the role of philosophy within Athenian society, providing both entertainment and thought-provoking insights.

Throughout the anthology, Aristophanes addresses a multitude of topics, including politics, warfare, love, and societal norms. His plays are distinguished by their clever dialogue, witty puns, and comedic situations, making them enjoyable for scholars and casual readers alike.

What are readers saying?

"The Complete Plays" by Sophocles has received a tremendous amount of positive reviews on Goodreads. Readers are enthusiastic about the collection, praising its captivating storytelling, timeless themes, and well-developed characters. Numerous reviewers have emphasized the valuable insights into human nature and the exploration of profound philosophical questions found within these plays. They also express high regard for Paul Roche's translation, which captures the lyrical quality and essence of the original Greek texts.

Reviewers consistently express their admiration for Sophocles' incredible writing skills, lauding his mastery of language and ability to evoke intense emotions. Many describe the plays as deeply poignant, tragic, and thought-provoking, with a lasting impact on readers long after they have finished reading.

A key aspect that resonates with readers is the timelessness of the themes explored in these plays, which they find relevant and relatable despite being written centuries ago. They perceive the struggles and moral dilemmas faced by the characters as universal, with themes such as fate, loyalty, and morality still deeply resonating in today's world.

The character development in these plays is highly regarded, with reviewers appreciating how Sophocles brings to life complex and multi-dimensional characters that feel genuine and relatable. The dynamics between the characters and their internal struggles are frequently described as compelling and engaging, further enhancing the immersive experience of reading these plays.

Many reviewers specifically highlight the translation by Paul Roche, commending his ability to maintain the poetic nature of the original texts while ensuring accessibility for modern readers. Roche's translation is often described as eloquent, fluid, and faithful to the spirit of Sophocles' work.

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