Iliada (vuoden 2004 painos)

If I were rating this on its historical significance and undeniable influence on the structure of modern narrative, I’d have been more generous in my rating. However, I’m rating this on aspects of its readability as a work of fiction first, poetry second.

Translation was great. The sheer number of classical names and lineages is a bit daunting in the first few books (chapters). The overall story is a bit...primitive, though I think this is to be expected with all things considered. Similar to novels compiled from a series of short stories, the books of The Illiad are similar in that assemblage and, perhaps due to the posterity of the work, makes for a few jarring transitions (eg. Book 22 -> 23).

From a poetic perspective, all I can really say (in this translation at least) is that the line is relatively transparent throughout the reading. At least a couple times per-book there’s a few verses that come off a little ditty, but (from what I can remember) the words are chosen well. A few verses were quite illustrious and could stand alone (indeed, a few of them I jotted down), particularly during the thick of the siege (books 8 -> 17).

If you’ve been meaning to read this but find you’re always hesitant pick it up next, I’ll tell you the read may not be worth it. ( )

I thought this translation was stellar, much more accessible than some of the other ones out there. I switched to the audiobook halfway though, which was mainly problematic because it didn't acknowledge which book it was on, but listening to poem was an enchanting experience. ( )

An epic poem full of classic themes, heroism, honor, rage and fate which centers around the Greek warrior Achilles during the later part of the Trojan war. Many and detailed descriptions of war and destruction, are interspersed by detailed narratives of family histories, interaction with the Greek gods and places and things. I enjoyed this book more than I thought, considering I was very familiar with the plot before I read the work itself.
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I am grateful that I listened to this since I have also read the abridged and unabridged version of the Iliad and Odyssey for college. I would recommend this for anyone who feels that they could not bring themselves to read the books. ( )

Not an easy read or a pleasant one. The brutalities of war aren't shied away from, but the poetry does manage to reach the heights of sublime beauty. Gives a pretty comprehensive look at that era. ( )