About the book
Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. It describes the reaction of the hero Achilles to the death of his closest friend, and his decision to reenter the conflict even though it means he will lose his own life. The book also includes the forging of the marvellous shield for the hero by the smithgod Hephaestus: the images on the shield are described by the poet in detail, and this description forms the archetypal ecphrasis, influential on many later writers. In an extensive introduction, R. B. Rutherford discusses the themes, style and legacy of the book. The commentary provides linebyline guidance for readers at all levels, addressing linguistic detail and larger questions of interpretation. A substantial appendix considers the relation between Iliad 18 and the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, which has been prominent in much recent discussion.
Editions of Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781107067776
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781107643123
Read an Excerpt
Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. It describes the reaction of the hero Achilles to the death of his closest friend, and his decision to reenter the conflict even though it means he will lose his own life. The book also includes the forging of the marvellous shield for the hero by the smithgod Hephaestus: the images on the shield are described by the poet in detail, and this description forms the archetypal ecphrasis, influential on many later writers. In an extensive introduction, R. B. Rutherford discusses the themes, style and legacy of the book. The commentary provides linebyline guidance for readers at all levels, addressing linguistic detail and larger questions of interpretation. A substantial appendix considers the relation between Iliad 18 and the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, which has been prominent in much recent discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII about?
Book 18 of the Iliad is an outstanding example of the range and power of Homeric epic. It describes the reaction of the hero Achilles to the death of his closest friend, and his decision to reenter the conflict even though it means he will lose his own life. The book also includes the forging of the marvellous shield for the hero by the smithgod Hephaestus: the images on the shield are described by the poet in detail, and this description forms the archetypal ecphrasis, influential on many later writers. In an extensive introduction, R. B. Rutherford discusses the themes, style and legacy of the book. The commentary provides linebyline guidance for readers at all levels, addressing linguistic detail and larger questions of interpretation. A substantial appendix considers the relation between Iliad 18 and the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh, which has been prominent in much recent discussion.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII?
Biography, Literature and Literary studies > Literature: history and criticism > Literary studies: general > Literary studies: ancient, classical and medieval
Where can I read a sample of Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781107067776
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII?
Homer,R. B. Rutherford
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Cambridge Greek and Latin Classics: Homer: Iliad Book XVIII is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781107067776) and paperback(ISBN 9781107643123)