The Arabic Fable
The present book is the first attempt to provide a representative inventory of fables documented in premodern Arabic literature. It surveys a total of 330 numbered fables with short summaries, exhaustive references, and concise comments.
The Genius of Invective
An exposition of Arabic literate culture In eleventh-century Cordoba, the celebrated poet Ibn Zaydūn found himself jockeying for the affections of Wallādah, accomplished poet and free-spirited daughter of an Umayyad caliph. Looking to embarrass a rival suitor, Ibn Zaydūn mischievously wrote and publicized an eloquent, erudite, and searing rejection letter in Wallādah's name, which went on to become one of the most widely read works of Arabic literature. His letter was so rich with historical references and sophisticated metaphors that it became a cultural touchstone among the literary elite. One could not belong in refined circles if one did not understand Ibn Zaydūn's letter. Three centuries later, the Egyptian litterateur Ibn Nubātah wrote a guide to this widely-admired text. In The Genius of Invective, a brilliant work of explication, Ibn Nubātah supplements Ibn Zaydūn's complete letter with concise biographies of every figure referenced in it and glosses arcane Arabic terms. This wide-ranging volume offered readers a veritable encyclopedia of the key cultural and literary references that peppered Ibn Zaydūn's famous letter. As impressive in its own right as the remarkable letter that inspired it, The Genius of Invective is a peerless example of the breadth, depth, and complexity of the Arabic classical literary tradition. A bilingual Arabic-English edition.
The Poems of Catullus
Written in the twilight of the Roman Republic, the poetry of Gaius Valerius Catullus offers a delicious insight into the passions and gossip of high Roman society. From the poet and his friends to cultural and political titans, including Caesar, Cicero, and Pompey, his cutting, modern verse spares no-one. In this new translation by Daisy Dunn, author of Catullus' Bedspread, his obscene honesty, arrogant wit and surprising tenderness capture Roman society at their best. Most famous for his obsessive love lyrics for the married Lesbia, Catullus' words are an immortal expression of youth, rebellion and agonised love.
His Last Bow
'There's an east wind coming... such a wind as never blew on England yet.' Arthur Conan Doyle's His Last Bow features a selection of Sherlock Holmes stories written at a time of growing tensions in Europe. First published as a collection in 1917, against the backdrop of the First World War, the volume covers tales that deviate from the pattern of earlier Sherlock adventures which focus on individual culpability and the comfort of a simplistic restoration of order. The titular story in this collection was influenced by Doyle's personal experience of the war, and in these tales the solutions to seemingly small-scale, local, mysteries uncover crimes concerning national security, or even expose the covert evil actions of organizations and powerful dictators. This edition contains a new introduction by Trish Ferguson which offers a richly detailed contextual backdrop for understanding the work as an act of war service designed to offer a morale boost to both British troops abroad and readers at home. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
Polyglot Texts and Translations in Early Modern Europe
Early modern culture was multilingual, and so were many of the works produced across Europe and beyond its borders. The contributors to this volume draw new interrelations between different humanistic traditions and multilingual and translational writing practices using a wide range of primary sources--documents produced in Norwich, scientific treatises by Galileo and Stevin, travel accounts and dictionaries by James Howell, translations an retranslations of Antoine de Nerv癡ze's moral letters, Aljamiado documents and short comic plays in Spain, Jesuit pedagogical theater in New France, grammars, dictionaries and historiographical accounts in missionary contexts, and a mining law code in South Central Europe--that highlight the significance of polyglossia in early modern cultural production and transmission. Covering a wide range of languages, including Latin, Nahuatl and Turkish, their analysis invites comparison with today's polyglot practices in a globalized world, as we also adapt to new technologies and ever-changing realities.
American Notes for General Circulation
This is a scholarly edition, annotated and illustrated, addressing the modern reader. Dickens fans and students will find the most balanced approach to annotate and contextualize the writer's travel impressions, as well as a chronology following Dickens's itinerary chapter by chapter. The text and the appendices are accompanied by 343 explanatory notes.
The Nature of Things (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
The Book of Monasteries
A literary tour of Christian monasteries of the medieval Middle East The Book of Monasteries takes readers on a tour of the monasteries of the Middle East by presenting the rich variety of poetry and prose associated with each monastery. Starting with Baghdad, readers are taken up the Tigris into the mountains of south-eastern Anatolia before moving to Palestine and Syria, along the Euphrates down to the old Christian center of Ḥīrah and onward to Egypt. For the literary anthologist al-Shābushtī, who was Muslim, monasteries were important sites of interactions with Christian communities that made up about half the population of the Abbasid Empire at the time. Each section in this anthology covers a specific monastery, beginning with a discussion of its location and the reason for its name. Al-Shābushtī presents poems, anecdotes, and historical reports related to each. He selects heroic and spectacular incidents, illustrations of caliphal extravagance, and events that gave rise to memorable verse. Important political personalities and events that were indirectly linked with monasteries also appear in the collection, as do scenes of festive court life and gruesome murders. Al-Shābushtī uses these accounts not to teach history but to offer a meditation on the splendor of Abbasid culture as well as moral and philosophical lessons: the ephemerality of power; the virtues of generosity and tolerance; the effectiveness of eloquence in prose and poetry; the fleeting nature of pleasure and beauty. Translated into English for the first time, The Book of Monasteries offers an entertaining panorama of religious, political, and literary life during the Abbasid era. An English-only edition.
The Complete Essays of Plutarch (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket Dive into the wisdom of one of antiquity's greatest thinkers through a collection of essays that explore timeless themes of morality, leadership, and human behavior. With vivid anecdotes and philosophical reflections, these writings bridge the personal and the political, offering insights into the lives of historical figures and the values that shaped their decisions. Plutarch examines the virtues and flaws of humanity with a blend of storytelling and analysis, challenging readers to consider their own lives in light of universal truths. Rich in historical context and ethical dilemmas, this work invites deep reflection and sparks curiosity about the ancient world.Plutarch's Complete Essays stands as a cornerstone of classical literature, offering unparalleled insights into ancient ethics, politics, and human behavior. These essays influenced Renaissance thinkers and shaped the moral philosophy of Western civilization, bridging the wisdom of Greece and Rome. Through vivid character studies and timeless reflections, Plutarch provided a blueprint for understanding leadership and virtue across ages. His work continues to inspire readers with its rich historical context and enduring relevance to modern questions of morality and governance.
The English Apocalypse
Before the Wycliffite Bible in the 1380s, one of the only complete books of the Bible to be translated into Middle English was the Book of Revelation. The English Apocalypse, translated from the French in the early 14th century, must have been well known to the later translators, as it appears in 18 extant manuscripts, sometimes alongside Wycliffite material. This edition reproduces, for the first time, a copy of the English Apocalypse, which actually replaced the Book of Revelation at the end of a Wycliffite New Testament.
The English Apocalypse
Before the Wycliffite Bible in the 1380s, one of the only complete books of the Bible to be translated into Middle English was the Book of Revelation. The English Apocalypse, translated from the French in the early 14th century, must have been well known to the later translators, as it appears in 18 extant manuscripts, sometimes alongside Wycliffite material. This edition reproduces, for the first time, a copy of the English Apocalypse, which actually replaced the Book of Revelation at the end of a Wycliffite New Testament.
The Argonautika by Orpheus
Is it possible to be better than Homer? For most literary critics in late antiquity, the answer was an unequivocal no, but the anonymous author of the Argonautika by Orpheus disagreed. This book, the first English monograph on this late antique epic poem, demonstrates that the idea of competing with Homer is central to the Argonautika by Orpheus. Through a series of case-studies on the poem's diction and compositional technique, it proposes a novel approach. Since the mythological bard Orpheus is ostensibly the poem's author, readers are invited to view it from two perspectives simultaneously: as a late antique epic modelled on Homer's works, but also a prehistorical model for Homer's works.
The Raghupa簽cikā Of Vallabhadeva Being the Earliest Commentary on the Raghuvaṃśa of Kālidāsa
The Social Contract (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket In a world where personal freedom and collective order often clash, a radical idea emerges: society can thrive only when individuals willingly unite under a shared agreement. Rousseau explores how the balance between personal liberty and the common good can be achieved through the creation of a "social contract," where citizens relinquish certain freedoms to form a just and equitable community. This philosophical treatise delves into the origins of political authority, the role of the general will, and the importance of laws that reflect the shared interests of all. With timeless questions about freedom, equality, and governance, it challenges readers to reconsider what it means to live together in harmony.A cornerstone of political philosophy, The Social Contract shaped revolutionary thought and modern democratic ideals. Rousseau's vision of collective governance challenged monarchies and inspired movements like the French Revolution. His arguments for the general will and civil liberty continue to influence debates on freedom, justice, and equality. This profound work remains a timeless exploration of how societies can achieve harmony through shared principles.
The Cambridge Companion to Ancient Greek Epic
Ancient Greek literature begins with the epic verses of Homer. Epic then continued as a fundamental literary form throughout antiquity and the influence of the poems produced extends beyond antiquity and down to the present. This Companion presents a fresh and boundary-breaking account of the ancient Greek epic tradition. It includes wide-ranging close readings of epics from Homer to Nonnus, traces their dialogues with other modes such as ancient Mesopotamian poetry, Greek lyric and didactic writing, and explores their afterlives in Byzantium, early Christianity, modern fiction and cinema, and the identity politics of Greece and Turkey. Plot summaries are provided for those unfamiliar with individual poems. Drawing on cutting-edge new research in a number of fields, such as racecraft, geopolitics and the theory of emotions, the volume demonstrates the sustained and often surprising power of this renowned ancient genre, and sheds new light on its continued impact and relevance today.
The Cambridge Companion to Ancient Greek Epic
Ancient Greek literature begins with the epic verses of Homer. Epic then continued as a fundamental literary form throughout antiquity and the influence of the poems produced extends beyond antiquity and down to the present. This Companion presents a fresh and boundary-breaking account of the ancient Greek epic tradition. It includes wide-ranging close readings of epics from Homer to Nonnus, traces their dialogues with other modes such as ancient Mesopotamian poetry, Greek lyric and didactic writing, and explores their afterlives in Byzantium, early Christianity, modern fiction and cinema, and the identity politics of Greece and Turkey. Plot summaries are provided for those unfamiliar with individual poems. Drawing on cutting-edge new research in a number of fields, such as racecraft, geopolitics and the theory of emotions, the volume demonstrates the sustained and often surprising power of this renowned ancient genre, and sheds new light on its continued impact and relevance today.
On the Incarnation of the Word (Collector’s Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket In this profound theological treatise, a foundational figure in early Christianity explores the mystery of the Word of God taking on human form. Addressing both seekers and skeptics, the work delves into the divine purpose behind the Incarnation, illustrating how it brings healing, redemption, and unity between humanity and God. The narrative unfolds through compelling arguments and vivid imagery, revealing the transformative nature of divine love. With insights that resonate across centuries, the text offers a powerful glimpse into the heart of Christian doctrine. Widely regarded as one of the most influential works in Christian theology, On the Incarnation of the Word by Saint Athanasius laid a foundation for understanding Christ's divinity and humanity in the early Church. Written in the 4th century during intense doctrinal debates, this text boldly defended the core belief in the Incarnation against rising heretical views, especially Arianism, which questioned Christ's divine nature. Athanasius's clear and passionate arguments fortified the doctrine that shaped Christian teachings for centuries to come. His work continues to be celebrated as a timeless piece of theological wisdom and a cornerstone of Christian orthodoxy.
Orthodoxy (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket A wild and witty adventure into the depths of faith, Orthodoxy invites readers to see life as a grand, cosmic mystery hiding in plain sight. Chesterton leads with humor and razor-sharp insights, confronting the assumptions of modern thinking and offering a worldview that's both challenging and refreshingly joyful. Each chapter unpacks paradoxes where belief and wonder thrive side by side, daring us to look beyond mere facts to find the magic of existence. In rediscovering childlike awe, Chesterton unveils a vision of faith that feels both timeless and startlingly new.Orthodoxy stands as a landmark in Christian apologetics, capturing the spirit of a time when faith and reason seemed worlds apart. Written in 1908, Chesterton's work defies the prevailing skepticism of his era, reawakening the intellectual curiosity of readers toward faith with his clever arguments and paradoxes. His insights offered a fresh, accessible perspective that challenged rigid rationalism and bridged the divide between belief and modern thought. Today, Orthodoxy remains a cornerstone of religious literature, inviting readers across generations to reexamine the world with wonder and conviction.
Paṭṭinappalai
Kat@iyalu#r Uruthiran^ Kan@n@an\a#r was a Tamil poet of the Cankam period. He was a contemporary of Ilantiraiyan, King of Kanchipuram and lived between the later and early years of the third and fourth centuries (A.D.) He composed Pat@t@in\appa#lai and Perumpa#n@a#truppat@ai. Song No 167 of Akan\a#n\u#ru and 352 of Kuru^nkotai are also attributed to him.
The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France
Murder in a cathedral, horrific illnesses and deformities, narrow escapes from injury and death, a vengeful dragon, a wandering eyeball, a bawdy monk and other sinners redeemed--the accounts of miracles performed by the Virgin Mary gathered and translated in The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France provide vivid glimpses into medieval life and beliefs. Bruce L. Venarde provides fluent translations of the first five collections of Marian miracle narratives from France, written in the second quarter of the twelfth century and never before available in English.The stories recorded in these collections--by Herman of Tournai; Hugh Farsit; Haimo of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives; John, son of Peter; and Gautier of Compi癡gne--offer descriptions of travel, living conditions, medical knowledge, conflict between and among lay and religious authorities, and the burgeoning cult of the Virgin Mary, which had only recently become important in Western Europe. Including notes, tables, and maps that orient and illuminate the texts, The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France makes these riveting tales available to readers seeking a view into the medieval past.
The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France
Murder in a cathedral, horrific illnesses and deformities, narrow escapes from injury and death, a vengeful dragon, a wandering eyeball, a bawdy monk and other sinners redeemed--the accounts of miracles performed by the Virgin Mary gathered and translated in The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France provide vivid glimpses into medieval life and beliefs. Bruce L. Venarde provides fluent translations of the first five collections of Marian miracle narratives from France, written in the second quarter of the twelfth century and never before available in English.The stories recorded in these collections--by Herman of Tournai; Hugh Farsit; Haimo of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives; John, son of Peter; and Gautier of Compi癡gne--offer descriptions of travel, living conditions, medical knowledge, conflict between and among lay and religious authorities, and the burgeoning cult of the Virgin Mary, which had only recently become important in Western Europe. Including notes, tables, and maps that orient and illuminate the texts, The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France makes these riveting tales available to readers seeking a view into the medieval past.
The Cambridge Companion to Lucian
Lucian is one of the most prolific and wide-ranging writers from antiquity and one of the most influential and controversial. His work is deeply embedded in the cultural and religious politics of the Greek world in the Roman Empire, but also played an important role in later periods, particularly during the Renaissance, and was considered a crucial example of the inherited wisdom of classical antiquity. Lucian's prose is limpid and elegant as well as sharply funny and full of great stories, dramatic dialogues, and brilliant satire. This Companion, written by world-leading scholars, introduces the major themes of his corpus and provides more detailed studies of individual works. Readers will be able to appreciate his major contributions to the history of satire, comic dialogues, religion, art, and erotics as well as being given a snapshot of the most important episodes in his work's reception in the West.
The Cambridge Companion to Lucian
Lucian is one of the most prolific and wide-ranging writers from antiquity and one of the most influential and controversial. His work is deeply embedded in the cultural and religious politics of the Greek world in the Roman Empire, but also played an important role in later periods, particularly during the Renaissance, and was considered a crucial example of the inherited wisdom of classical antiquity. Lucian's prose is limpid and elegant as well as sharply funny and full of great stories, dramatic dialogues, and brilliant satire. This Companion, written by world-leading scholars, introduces the major themes of his corpus and provides more detailed studies of individual works. Readers will be able to appreciate his major contributions to the history of satire, comic dialogues, religion, art, and erotics as well as being given a snapshot of the most important episodes in his work's reception in the West.
Joan of Arc
The mysterious tale of a great leader, martyred for her cause, and often regarded as a woman beyond her time. Patron saint, visionary, defender of a nation, political symbol, feminist icon, martyr - Joan of Arc is all these things and more. A saviour of France who would be burned at the stake, her gripping story has inspired countless works of literature, art and music. And yet myths will forever shroud the reality, and the true nature of the motivations and visions of this extraordinary nineteen-year-old will never be completely known. With a new introduction, this fascinating classic review of Jeanne d'Arc's life, the pious girl from Domr矇my, presents an accessible biography, thoroughly grounded in original sources and truly engaging. FLAME TREE 451: From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and mechanical men, blood-lusty vampires, dastardly villains, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.
Tristan and Isolde
The classic medieval tale that brings romance, chivalry and adventure to the modern reader. Alongside Gawain and the Green Knight and Beowulf, Tristan and Isolde's tale of doomed love is a classic medieval story whose themes of love, betrayal, honour and courage have weathered the test of time. Modern movies, theatre and Wagnerian opera productions tell many variations of the Irish maiden who, instructed to marry another, instead falls in love with the Cornish prince tasked to bring her to her betrothed. A love triangle with strong echoes of the Arthurian legend of Queen Guinevere and Lancelot, Tristan and Isolde is heavily linked to many branches of Celtic legend, from Irish lore to the Welsh Mabinogion and, with Tristan taking part in the Quest for the Holy Grail, in the epic tales of Arthur too. FLAME TREE 451: From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and mechanical men, blood-lusty vampires, dastardly villains, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.
Letters from a Stoic (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket Face life's greatest challenges with unshakable calm and clarity. In Letters from a Stoic, Seneca shares deeply personal and practical wisdom, teaching how to master emotions and embrace life's hardships with grace. Through his letters to a friend, he explores the art of living virtuously, urging readers to find strength and fulfillment within themselves. Seneca's reflections are not just philosophy but a guide to enduring life's ups and downs with resilience and purpose. Letters from a Stoic holds a pivotal place in the history of philosophy, bridging the gap between ancient Stoic thought and modern self-help ideals. Seneca's writings provide rare insight into the practical application of Stoic principles in everyday life, influencing not only Roman society but generations of thinkers, from early Christian theologians to Enlightenment philosophers. His letters serve as a timeless guide to resilience and ethical living, shaping how we view personal growth and inner strength. The work's enduring relevance speaks to its profound impact on both ancient and contemporary views of happiness and human flourishing.
Meditations (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket In the quiet moments between battles and ruling an empire, a Roman emperor turns inward, seeking wisdom on how to live a life of purpose. Through raw and personal reflections, he wrestles with questions of power, fate, and the pursuit of inner peace. These meditations reveal the struggle to remain virtuous in a chaotic world, offering timeless insights on self-discipline and resilience. With a blend of philosophy and deeply human concerns, his words still resonate with anyone searching for meaning and balance today. Meditations holds a unique place in history as the personal writings of a Roman emperor, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most powerful figures of the ancient world. Unlike traditional philosophical works, it was never meant for publication, making its insights into Stoic philosophy all the more intimate and authentic. These reflections have not only shaped Western thought but have also endured through centuries as a guide to leadership, ethics, and personal resilience. Marcus Aurelius's musings reveal the timeless human struggle for wisdom and inner peace, influencing generations of thinkers, from early Christians to modern-day philosophers.
Nicomachean Ethics (Collector's Edition) (Laminated Hardback with Jacket)
Collector's Edition Laminated Hardback with Jacket What does it mean to live a truly good life? Aristotle tackles this age-old question in Nicomachean Ethics, guiding readers through the pursuit of happiness by cultivating virtues. With sharp insights on justice, friendship, and human nature, Aristotle reveals how balancing desires and actions leads to lasting fulfillment. His wisdom offers a captivating journey into understanding ethical behavior, making this work a timeless companion for those seeking a flourishing and meaningful life. Nicomachean Ethics holds immense historical significance as one of the foundational texts in Western philosophy, shaping the way we understand morality, virtue, and human happiness. Aristotle's approach to ethics influenced centuries of thinkers, from medieval scholars to modern philosophers, by emphasizing the importance of rationality and moderation in achieving a flourishing life. The work laid the groundwork for discussions on ethics that continue to this day, bridging ancient Greek thought with contemporary debates on moral philosophy. Its impact resonates through law, politics, and personal conduct across the globe.
India Through Ages
About Book: -Here by this Book we would like to show you the Amazing Rare & Real Heritage Photographs & Paintings of India to Put an Idea about Indian people thoughts regarding our Culture, Day to Day activities and most important aspect related to Indian Independence (Independence from British rule). how India was before 150 years back? for general Awareness to Protect our valuable & Priceless Photographic & Painting Heritage of India by not destroying and not writing anything on old rare Photographs & Painting wherever they are kept, However Photographic & Painting Heritage Conservation is conducted by many Libraries, Museums and ASI (Archeological Survey of India - A Central Government Body - founded in 1861 & effectively starts working from 1870) who is responsible for Conservation, Restoration, Preservation & Reconstruction, but this is our Prime duty & help to protect our priceless Photographic & Painting Heritage for our New coming Generations for several years
Cicero
The first modern commentary on Cicero's last dialogue, written in the months after Caesar's assassination. Designed for intermediate and advanced students of Latin, ancient philosophy, and Roman intellectual and political history. Pays careful attention to structure and argument as well as helping students understand Cicero's style and language.
Cicero
The first modern commentary on Cicero's last dialogue, written in the months after Caesar's assassination. Designed for intermediate and advanced students of Latin, ancient philosophy, and Roman intellectual and political history. Pays careful attention to structure and argument as well as helping students understand Cicero's style and language.
Theodore of Sykeon
Theodore of Sykeon is one of the archetypal holy men of the late Roman world, a person whose intense ascetic regime earned him fame in the villages and cities of his Galatian homeland, where he was called upon to work a variety of miracles - cures for various ailments, prevention of natural disasters, and the exorcism of unclean spirits both from individuals and groups. His reputation for holiness led to appointment as bishop of Anastasiopolis, a responsibility he did not enjoy since its administrative commitments compromised his ascetic regime and conflicted with his sense of social justice. The location of his village on the main highway across Anatolia ensured that his fame was soon translated into contacts with travelling dignitaries, and this brought him to the attention of successive emperors and patriarchs of Constantinople. He made three trips to the Holy Land and visited the capital three times, where he met the emperors Maurice, Phocas, and Heraclius as well as the patriarchs Cyriacus, Thomas, and Sergius. Theodore's disciple George, a future leader of the Sykeon monasteries, began composing this Life shortly after Theodore's death in 613. Soon thereafter, his body was removed to Constantinople as a talisman, an event celebrated by Nicholas the Treasurer.
Classical Samaritan Poetry
This book introduces the evocative but largely unknown tradition of Samaritan religious poetry from late antiquity to a new audience. These verses provide a unique window into the Samaritan religious world during a formative period.Prepared by Laura Suzanne Lieber, this anthology presents annotated English translations of fifty-five Classical Samaritan poems. Lieber introduces each piece, placing it in context with Samaritan religious tradition, the geopolitical turmoil of Palestine in the fourth century CE, and the literary, liturgical, and performative conventions of the Eastern and Western Roman Empires, shared by Jews, Christians, and polytheists. These hymns, composed by three generations of poets--the priest Amram Dara; his son, Marqah; and Marqah's son, Ninna, the last poet to write in Samaritan Aramaic in the period prior to the Muslim conquest--for recitation during the Samaritan Sabbath and festival liturgies remain a core element of Samaritan religious ritual to the present day.Shedding important new light on the Samaritans' history and on the complicated connections between early Judaism, Christianity, the Samaritan community, and nascent Islam, this volume makes an important contribution to the reception of the history of the Hebrew Bible. It will appeal to a wide audience of students and scholars of the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, early Judaism and early Christianity, and other religions of late antiquity.
The Romance of the Violet and Other Wager Tales from Medieval France
A high-stakes wager placed on a woman's virtue; men who spy on bathing women; tell-tale birthmarks; cross-dressing; dragons; tournaments; and aristocrats bursting into song--these features and more appear in the three stories translated here, all versions of the folktale known as "the wager tale." Such stories were especially popular in thirteenth-century France, when noblemen fulfilled their feudal duties far from home. Did their women remain faithful? A pressing question, for only female chastity guaranteed the legitimacy of heirs. This collection offers the first translations into English of The Romance of the Violet and The Count of Poitiers, along with a new version of The Tale of King Flore and the Fair Joan. The first paints a vivid portrait of thirteenth-century courtly life. The second, set in the eighth-century court of King Pepin, includes both a wager tale and a bride quest, the latter involving a shocking scene of female group nudity. Flore and Joan takes a different tack, presenting a clear-eyed heroine who overcomes daunting odds by posing as a man. These medieval tales portray strong women who gainsay social control of their bodies, thereby winning the respect of men--a scenario that resonates even today.
Women in Power
Recommended by Mary Beard as one of the BBC History Magazine's Books of the Year Classical stories about women who wield power, from the Amazons to Dido to Cleopatra A Penguin Classic There is no other anthology that brings together similar stories of ancient women in power. These women threaten male power by stepping into the roles traditionally held by men. They command armies, exercise sexual autonomy and even dominance, speak in public, issue laws, and subject others (even masculine heroes and citizen men) to their control. All of these stories were written by men, and none of them can be read as affirmations or celebrations of women in power. They are instead misogynistic tales that aim to shore up masculine authority by exposing the consequences when women rather than men wield it. The sexist attitudes voiced in these stories continue to justify women's exclusion from power in our contemporary world. Yet despite the fear and suspicion the male authors direct toward these women, we can find much to admire in their tales, from the coordinated action of the women of Aristophanes's Assemblywomen, to Dido's questioning of the male value system that leads Aeneas to abandon her, to the righteous anger of Boudicca against sexual violence by men in power, to the successful resistance of Amanirenas against Rome's colonial expansion. Read differently, these tales testify to the long history of women in power and help us forge new paths for female empowerment.
Collection of Hesiod, Homer and Homerica
Dive into the rich legacy of ancient Greek literature with Collection of Hesiod, Homer and Homerica. This remarkable compilation includes the thirty-three anonymous Homeric Hymns, which celebrate individual gods with the same epic grandeur as the Iliad and Odyssey.Attributed to Homer since antiquity and documented as such by Thucydides, these hymns span from the seventh century BCE, positioning them among the earliest treasures of Greek literary heritage. While most were crafted in the seventh and sixth centuries, some pieces may extend into the Hellenistic period, adding layers to their historical significance.This collection not only underscores the thematic depth of divine reverence and mythological narratives but also offers invaluable insights into the cultural and religious fabric of ancient Greece. Experience the enduring power and profound beauty of these ancient hymns that continue to captivate readers and scholars alike.
Kabuliwala & The Postmaster
About the BookTIMELESS NARRATIVES BY LITERARY MAESTRO RAVINDRANATH TAGORE COME ALIVE IN A CONTEMPORARY COMIC VERSION.The book is a compilation of two short stories in comic format. Kabuliwala is a heart-warming tale of an unusual friendship between an Afghani merchant and a young girl called Mini. One of the best stories of the Nobel laureate.The Postmaster is the story of young man from Kolkata, who is sent to manage the post office in a remote village. There, he forms an unexpected bond with Ratan, an orphaned girl. An emotionally charged story that continues to resonate. About the AuthorRediscover the giants of Indian literature in a whole new way. These contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the great classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for graphic novel enthusiasts and lovers of classic fiction.
Toba Tek Singh & The Dog of Tithwal
About the BookTIMELESS NARRATIVES BY LITERARY LEGEND SAADAT HASSAN MANTO COMES ALIVE IN A CONTEMPORARY COMIC VERSION.The book is a compilation of two short stories in comic format.Set during the partition of India in 1947, Toba Tek Singh revolves around the inmates of a Lahore mental asylum and their impending transfer to India or Pakistan.One of Manto's best known short stories! The Dog of Tithwal is the story of a stray dog, in the village of Tithwal, who wanders into the Indian and Pakistani army picket posts. Through the dog's eyes, Manto explores the human capacity for cruelty and kindness and the paradoxes of war.About the AuthorRediscover the giants of Indian literature in a whole new way. These contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the great classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for graphic novel enthusiasts and lovers of classic fiction.
The Book of Lamach of Cain
Lamach, Seventh from Cain, tells his story.
Eidgah & The Salt Inspector
About the Book TIMELESS NARRATIVES BY INDIAN LITERARY MAESTRO MUNSHI PREMCHAND COME ALIVE IN A CONTEMPORARY COMIC VERSION.The book is a compilation of two short stories in comic format.EIDGAH Four-year-old Hamid says goodbye to his grandmother and sets out with his friends to have fun at the village fair, on Eid. But he finds himself faced with a moral dilemma there. A powerful and moving story of sacrifice and love. THE SALT INSPECTOR Vanshidhar, a young man of unwavering integrity, resists every temptation as he combats the illegal salt trade in British India. A memorable story for all ages. About the Series Rediscover the giants of Indian literature in a whole new way. These contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the great classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for graphic novel enthusiasts and lovers of classic fiction. About the Author Dhanpat Rai Srivastava (1880-1936), better known as Munshi Premchand or Premchand, was an Indian writer famous for his modern Hindi/Hindustani literature. Premchand was a pioneer of Hindi and Urdu social fiction. He was one of the first authors to write about caste hierarchies and the plight of women and labourers prevalent in the society. He is one of the most celebrated writers of the Indian subcontinent and is regarded as one of the foremost Hindi writers of the early twentieth century. He began writing under the pen name 'Nawab Rai', but subsequently switched to 'Premchand'. He published his first collection of five short stories in 1907 in a book called Soz-e-Watan (Voice of the Nation). His body of work include more than a dozen novels, around 300 short stories, several essays and translations of a number of foreign literary works into Hindi
THE BIBLE in The Epic of Gilgamesh
Is there another way to look at the Bible flood story? Rather than a very big boat needed to save a large number of animals and eight souls from extinction, think of Noah's Ark as being a closed biological system where male and female ("two of every sort") are necessary for procreation and to maintain equilibrium. And rather than thinking of the flood as a cataclysm involving H20, consider another scenario where the waters ("darkness with little light") may be "a hot dense state" that expands and cools over time. Comparing the Bible and extra-Biblical writings alongside the ancient Sumerian/Akkadian/Babylonian, The Epic of Gilgamesh, we are transported to a time before time. All sense of Bible chronology seems to disappear into one continuous stream, Noah and Moses become the same story. What does it mean in the big scheme of things? Are we to believe that Bible stories are mere variations of a more ancient tale? Essentially what 'The Epic of Gilgamesh' does is erase all sense of Bible timelines to expose what looks to be something far more sinister. What has often appeared to many as a discordant jumble of words, nevertheless shows itself to be an extremely convoluted (albeit not evident from general reading) wonder, yet not in the sense as religious ideas portray it. It makes us ask how human beings could have orchestrated the complexity. More than that we must ask the question few of us want to. Have we been intentionally misled?
Antiquity in Print
Daniel Orrells examines the ways in which the ancient world was visualized for Enlightenment readers, and reveals how antiquarian scholarship emerged as the principal technology for envisioning ancient Greek culture, at a time when very few people could travel to Greece which was still part of the Ottoman Empire. Offering a fresh account of the rise of antiquarianism in the 18th century, Orrells shows how this period of cultural progression was important for the invention of classical studies. In particular, the main focus of this book is on the visionary experimentalism of antiquarian book production, especially in relation to the contentious nature of ancient texts. With the explosion of the Quarrel between the Ancients and the Moderns, eighteenth-century intellectuals, antiquarians and artists such as Giambattista Vico, Johann Joachim Winckelmann, the Comte de Caylus, James Stuart, Julien-David Leroy, Giovanni Battista Piranesi and Pierre-Fran癟ois Hugues d'Hancarville all became interested in how printed engravings of ancient art and archaeology could visualize a historical narrative. These figures theorized the relationship between ancient text and ancient material and visual culture - theorizations which would pave the way to foundational questions at the heart of the discipline of classical studies and neoclassical aesthetics.
Germanos II, Patriarch of Constantinople (1223-1240)
Germanos II (1223-40) was the Orthodox patriarch of Constantinople at a critical period after its fall in 1204 to the fourth crusade, when Byzantium looked doomed to irrelevance, as its emperor and patriarch eked out a shadowy existence in exile at Nicaea. Germanos II's major achievement was to give his office renewed substance by obtaining recognition of his ecumenical authority not only from the community of Orthodox churches, but tacitly from the papacy itself. In doing so he also restored a modicum of prestige to the imperial dignity. Remarkable as his legacy was, it has gone largely unrecognised both by contemporaries and by modern scholarship. Why memory of his work was not better preserved is a puzzle to which his unfairly neglected sermons offer a key. They reveal an abrasive character, whose humble origins put him at odds with both the court nobility and the higher clergy. He was more concerned with the promotion of the evangelical ideal through preaching and social justice than he was with church administration and the performance of the liturgy. He was in conventional terms an embarrassment, who was best forgotten. The twenty-one sermons translated here were not, as was so often the case, exercises in belles-lettres but a sustained effort to bring about both social and moral reform as a precondition for the recovery of Constantinople from the Latins. They bear comparison with those of John Chrysostom, whose influence is evident in the way Germanos II used his sermons to create a dialogue with his audience. This new translation of a neglected source casts light on the surprising survival of Byzantium at a critical moment in its history.
Manuscripts of the Wycliffite Bible in the Bodleian and Oxford College Libraries
The catalogue is the first step towards a systematic description of the manuscripts of the Wycliffite Bible, one of the most influential medieval English works. The Bible is the first complete translation of the Vulgate in English, produced at the end of the 14th century by the followers of the Oxford theologian John Wyclif. In spite of being condemned and banned within twenty five years of its appearance, it became the most widely disseminated medieval English text. The catalogue contains detailed descriptions of all (64 in total) manuscripts of the Wycliffite Bible in Oxford collections (the Bodleian and college libraries). This is a substantial part of the whole corpus: 250 manuscripts of the Bible survive and Oxford has the largest number of copies in any single location. The descriptions are subdivided into sections covering textual contents, decoration, dialect, physical makeup and binding of each manuscript, and are accompanied by bibliographies. The descriptions are preceded by an introduction with a discussion of the manuscript tradition of the Wycliffite Bible and the findings resulting from the study of Oxford copies. The catalogue also contains several appendices illustrating important features of the manuscripts.
Phlegon of Tralles’ Book of Marvels
The Book of Marvels, a compilation of marvellous events of a grotesque, bizarre or sensational nature, was composed in the second century A.D. by Phlegon of Tralles, a Greek freedman of the Roman emperor Hadrian. This remarkable text is the earliest surviving work of pure sensationalism in Western literature. The Book is arranged thematically: Ghosts; Sex-Changers and Hermaphrodites; Finds of Giant Bones; Monstrous Births; Births from Males; Amazing Multiple Births; Abnormally Rapid Development of Human Beings; Discoveries of Live Centaurs. This volume also contains and Introduction and commentary on the texts, as well as translations of fragments of two other works and a translation of Goethe's well-known vampire poem, The Bride of Corinth, which was inspired by Phlegon's Book of Marvels.
