Valdosta readers can explore two recent books delving into ancient history and literature, offering fresh perspectives on Rome's transformation from a republic to an authoritarian empire and the ongoing challenges of translating ancient Greek texts. Dean Poling of The Valdosta Daily Times highlighted these works, which aim to provide insight into past civilizations and their lessons for today.
One of the reviewed books, "Agrippa: A Novel of Ancient Rome’s Descent into Dictatorship" by Robert Harris, plunges into the birth of the Roman Empire through the eyes of general and statesman Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa. Harris, known for crafting dynamic fiction from historical facts and rumors, builds a researched foundation and then explores the inner thoughts of historical figures, according to Dean Poling. The narrative chronicles Agrippa's humble beginnings and his fateful meeting with the frail Octavius, Julius Caesar’s great-nephew, in school. Agrippa becomes Octavius’s friend and protector from bullies, a relationship that evolves into Agrippa serving as Octavius’s chief lieutenant and son-in-law. This close alliance proves crucial as Octavius ascends to become Caesar and subsequently Augustus, the first Roman emperor. Poling notes Harris's portrayal suggesting Octavius's rise to Augustus would not have been possible without Agrippa, hinting that Agrippa himself might have achieved even more had it not been for the conceit of Augustus. Historically, Agrippa secured numerous military victories for Rome, including the pivotal Battle of Actium. He also spearheaded critical construction projects, such as the development of aqueducts and even the original Parthenon. Harris weaves into the narrative historical gossip concerning Agrippa, exploring the possibility that he may have been an illegitimate son of Julius Caesar. The book delivers a clear moral message, as described by Poling: a representative republic can quickly succumb to authoritarian forces and rule.
Another significant work reviewed by Dean Poling is Emily Wilson’s "Crossing the Wine-Dark Sea: Journeys Through Ancient Literature." Wilson is recognized as a leading modern translator of Homer’s epic Greek tale, "The Odyssey." Following the release of director Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of "The Odyssey," Wilson gained attention for publicly detailing her criticisms of Nolan’s vision. While Wilson's own book, "Crossing the Wine-Dark Sea," was issued after the movie's release and does not directly refer to Nolan's film, Poling points out that it illuminates why Wilson would likely have issues with a modern cinematic interpretation of a story that has been translated, adapted, and reinterpreted for millennia. In her book, Wilson meticulously addresses what she perceives as shortcomings in past written English translations. She argues that many of these translations fail to accurately capture the true spirit of the original Greek texts.
Wilson employs a crisp, smart style to dissect previous translations, exposing instances where they misinterpret or misunderstand the original material. She also highlights how some translations may mislead readers, either to align with the personal beliefs or worldviews of the translators or to suit the cultural sensibilities of their respective eras. Beyond "The Odyssey," Wilson’s book delves deeply into the works and translations of a broad array of Greek dramatists and poets, including Aeschylus, Aristophanes, Euripides, Sappho, Seneca, and Sophocles. A dedicated chapter explores the topic of "Slut-Shaming Helen of Troy," and Wilson also challenges the enduring popularity and best-selling status of Edith Hamilton’s translations of Greek myths. She further examines Rome's comprehensive adoption of Greek culture, posing the question of why a conquering power would create its own culture when it could appropriate that of a vanquished people. For those who find classical literature daunting, Poling suggests Wilson’s latest book can serve as an accessible entry point. He concludes that readers can enjoy Wilson’s insights and simultaneously appreciate Nolan’s cinematic rendition of "The Odyssey."