Monday, June 01, 2009
OEDIPUS THE KING
Author: Sophocles
Date: 429 BC
Probably one of the most perfect literary works of all times, if I may indulge in the kind of pointless comparative musing which make the fame of some literary critics of late. Not only it is perfectly structured, but the richness of meaning is bewildering - points which are hardly in need of stressing, given its huge cultural reverberation. As for the style, it is clear to me, after reading the three Theban plays, that Sophocles is an accomplished writer, even by today's standards. Of course, I only had translations on which to base my opinion, but there is only so much improvement a translator can effect on a work.
Date: 429 BC
Probably one of the most perfect literary works of all times, if I may indulge in the kind of pointless comparative musing which make the fame of some literary critics of late. Not only it is perfectly structured, but the richness of meaning is bewildering - points which are hardly in need of stressing, given its huge cultural reverberation. As for the style, it is clear to me, after reading the three Theban plays, that Sophocles is an accomplished writer, even by today's standards. Of course, I only had translations on which to base my opinion, but there is only so much improvement a translator can effect on a work.
