Interpreting Classical Texts

by Heath, Malcolm

• ISBN13: 9780715631744
• ISBN10: 0715631748
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2007-02-15
• Publisher: Bristol Classical Pr

Summary

How should I interpret a classical text? However I interpret it, someone else will so do differently, and even the nature of the interpreter's task is a matter of dispute; consensus is not a realistic prospect. Malcolm Heath sees the inevitability of such disagreements, not as a problem to be deplored, but as a constructive force, at once an essential part of the process of enquiry and a reflection of the endless diversity of the questions that interest the readers of classical texts. Accordingly he argues for an approach to interpretation that is theoretically reflective and committed to an open-ended, yet rigorously critical, pluralism. Against that background he examines a range of issues in literary theory, including the nature and significance of authorial intention, the relevance of context and reception, and the possibility and value of historically oriented interpretation.

Author Biography

Malcolm Heath is Professor of Greek Language and Literature at the University of Leeds.

Table of Contents

Preface	7	(9)
Interpretation and dissent	9	(30)
Disagreement	9	(2)
Reflection	11	(5)
Theory	16	(5)
Philosophy	21	(10)
Agreement	31	(8)
Variety in interpretation	39	(20)
Pluralism	39	(7)
Questions	46	(3)
Questions of interpretation	49	(4)
Meaning and significance	53	(6)
Good intentions	59	(40)
What are intentions?	60	(19)
Are intentions knowable?	79	(4)
Are intentions interesting?	83	(11)
In defence of reading	94	(5)
Contexts and consequences	99	(36)
Preconceptions	100	(8)
The context of interpretation	108	(3)
Contexts of composition	111	(6)
The challenge of ancient interpretation	117	(10)
Consequences	127	(8)
Notes	135	(8)
Further Reading	143	(8)
Index	151