About This Book
Metamorphoses: A New Translation
ISBN: 9780393326420
About This Book
"Metamorphoses: A New Translation" by Charles Martin is a modern English rendition of the ancient Roman poet Ovid's masterpiece. This book is a go-to resource for students and educators alike, offering a detailed exploration of the transformations and myths that have captivated readers for centuries.
Who Uses It?
Primarily, this book is used by students and instructors in classical literature and mythology courses at the college and university levels. It's also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome, including professionals looking to refresh their knowledge or expand their understanding of classical literature.
History and Editions
The 2005 edition of "Metamorphoses: A New Translation" has been a cornerstone in the field of classical literature for over a decade. This edition includes a new translation by Charles Martin, which won the 2004 Harold Morton Landon Translation Award from the Academy of American Poets. The book also features an introduction by Bernard Knox, comparing the currently available translations of Ovid and highlighting Martin's work as a significant improvement.
Author and Other Works
Charles Martin, the translator of "Metamorphoses," is a renowned poet and scholar. Born in New York City in 1942, Martin earned his Ph.D. in English from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He has received numerous awards for his poetry collections, including the Bess Hokin Prize and fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Ingram Merrill Foundation. Martin's translation of Ovid's "Metamorphoses" is a testament to his skill in bringing ancient texts to life in modern English.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Coverage: The book covers all 15 books of Ovid's "Metamorphoses," providing a comprehensive look at the myths and legends of ancient Rome.
- Accurate Translation: Martin's translation is known for its accuracy and clarity, making it easier for readers to understand the complexities of Ovid's work.
- Editorial Notes: The text includes short and unpedantic notes to explain cultural references and puns that may not be immediately clear to modern readers.
- Glossary of Names and Places: A handy index/glossary helps readers navigate the numerous characters and locations mentioned in the text.
Detailed Information
ISBNs and Formats
- Paperback: ISBN-13: 9780393326420
- eBook: Available through various digital platforms (ISBNs may vary)
Publication Details
- Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
- Publication Date: January 17, 2005
- Number of Pages: 624
- Language: English
Other Editions and Formats
- Hardcover: Although not listed as a separate ISBN, it is available through some retailers.
- eTextbook: Available through digital platforms like VitalSource (ISBN may vary).
Related ISBNs:
- 9780393072433 (eBook format, though not directly related to this specific edition)
- 9780393072433 (Digital and eTextbook ISBNs for Metamorphoses: A New Translation, 1st Edition)
Additional Information
For those interested in exploring more about Ovid's "Metamorphoses," there are several other translations and editions available. However, Charles Martin's 2005 edition remains a standout for its clarity and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for both students and scholars.
This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for "Metamorphoses: A New Translation," making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.






