The Odyssey: Penguin Classics

Homer

Sep 2019 · Penguin Classics · Narrated by George Blagden

About this audiobook

Brought to you by Penguin.

This Penguin Classic is performed by George Blagden, star of Versailles and Vikings. This definitive recording is translated by E.V. Rieu, revised by D.C.H. Rieu, and contains an introduction by Peter Jones.

The epic tale of Odysseus and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War forms one of the earliest and greatest works of Western literature. Confronted by natural and supernatural threats - shipwrecks, battles, monsters and the implacable enmity of the sea-god Poseidon - Odysseus must use his wit and native cunning if he is to reach his homeland safely and overcome the obstacles that, even there, await him.

(c) 1946, E. V. Rieu (P) 2019 Penguin Audio

Ratings and reviews

Very good treatment of a story that justifiably lives in western imagination for 3000 years. George Blagden reads beautifully, with welcome restraint. The text is the star here. There is just enough variation of voice to engage and a steadiness that keeps the excitement all through. The only odd note is the introduction at the end. This wasn't marked as a separate chapter. Also, it is filled with page references which are irrelevant for audio. If I want references in the text, I would have a book open. I think an editorial decision could have been made to leave these out. The only drawback after a few days very enjoyable listening. Doesn't take away at al from the pleasure of the listening itself.