Plot summary, “Tales from Ovid” by Ovid, Ted Hughes, ed. in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"Tales from Ovid" is a poetical work written by the English poet Ted Hughes and published in 1997 by Faber and Faber. This collection of twenty-four tales is a retelling of stories from Ovid's renowned epic poem, "Metamorphoses." Ted Hughes, known for his powerful and evocative poetry, brings these ancient myths to life in a fresh and engaging manner.
The book received critical acclaim and won the prestigious Whitbread Book of the Year Award in 1997, solidifying its place as a remarkable literary achievement. Translated into multiple languages, "Tales from Ovid" has captivated readers worldwide.
As one of his final published works, alongside "Birthday Letters," Ted Hughes's poetic rendition of Ovid's tales showcases his mastery of language and his ability to reimagine ancient stories for a contemporary audience. The book features four tales previously published in 1995 in "After Ovid, New Metamorphoses," edited by M. Hofmann and J. Ladun.
The impact of "Tales from Ovid" extends beyond the written word. The Royal Shakespeare Company performed a stage adaptation of the book at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1999. Additionally, the Queensland Shakespeare Ensemble has presented dramatizations of excerpts from Hughes' work between 2006 and 2008, highlighting the enduring popularity and theatrical potential of these captivating tales.
One notable performance of "Tales from Ovid" is Fiona Shaw's rendition of the tale "Echo and Narcissus" as a prologue to Henry Purcell's opera "Dido and Aeneas." This performance, directed by William Christie and accompanied by Les Arts Florissants, showcased the enduring relevance and artistic power of these ancient stories.
Critics have lauded Ted Hughes' retelling of Ovid's tales for its ability to capture the essence of passion and the supernatural. Professor James Shapiro, writing for the New York Times, praised the book, stating that Hughes brilliantly brings Ovid's passionate and disturbing stories to life. Hughes's deep understanding of human passion in extreme circumstances shines through in his poetic interpretation, drawing readers into a world of transformation and profound emotion.
For those who appreciate poetic storytelling, the timeless allure of mythology, and the artistry of Ted Hughes, "Tales from Ovid" is a must-read. This collection invites readers to delve into the vivid and often provocative tales of Ovid, reimagined through the lens of one of the greatest English poets of the twentieth century.