Odyssey Returns to the Cultural Spotlight

Summary

University of Pennsylvania classics professor Emily Wilson discusses the cultural resurgence of Homer's Odyssey, boosted by Christopher Nolan's film adaptation. The movie has led to a 1420% surge in Odyssey book sales, increased library checkouts, and renewed interest in studying classics among diverse students. Wilson also explains her translation philosophy, emphasizing direct work from the original Greek and the use of traditional meter, while downplaying gender as the defining feature of her work.

• Nolan's film drove a 1420% increase in hard copy Odyssey book sales this summer.
• Library checkouts of The Odyssey have also sharply risen alongside renewed public interest.
• Wilson observes the film attracting a diverse new generation to classics, beyond elite private school backgrounds.
• She resists framing her translation primarily through gender, instead highlighting her metrical English verse approach.
• Her translating practice relies on the ancient Greek text and lexicons, not other English translations.
• Wilson believes the film will enrich classroom discussions of Homer worldwide.