Customer Reviews

Catullus

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Although incomplete, Fordyce presents an extremely scholarly commentary on the wonderful poetry of Catullus, perhaps one of the best yet most underrated poets in the history of western literature. Though some suggestions are somewhat outlandish (e.g. poem 13) many are thought-provoking and truly serve to legitimize Catullus and display his great genius and talent.

This particular slant on Catullus is not my favorite. The editor really seems to aim this book at those who have extensive knowledge of the Classical Languages. (some of the commentary is in attic greek) I am a high school student taking AP Latin who was given this text by my teacher because the book that I am supposed to be using is backordered. It takes me on the average twice as long to translate with this book than when I borrow the text that I should be working off of. (The Student's Catullus, by Garrison) Catullus, by Fordyce is not for the average student of latin, rather for the average latin teacher.

This book is not meant to be a translating guide. I have used and enjoyed the Student's Catullus published by the University of Oklahoma press. That said, Fordyce's commentary is the go-to guide for all students of Catullus. His commentary and insight are essential to understanding Catullus in the context of the late Republic and vis-a-vis Catullus' contemporaries. I have taken AP Latin Literature and I also recommend the AP Catullus book for those students. Fordyce's work is not meant to be used as an introduction to Catullus but a scholarly reference work. As a result, use it in a supplementary role when studying for the AP Latin Literature exam. Also recommended is Reading Latin Poetry, also published by the University of Oklahoma.

Although incomplete, Fordyce presents an extremely scholarly commentary on the wonderful poetry of Catullus, perhaps one of the best yet most underrated poets in the history of western literature. Though some suggestions are somewhat outlandish (e.g. poem 13) many are thought-provoking and truly serve to legitimize Catullus and display his great genius and talent.

I have not reviewed most of this test, but I have seen my teacher of AP Latin use it. Fordyce is referenced by many others who have written on Catullus. For anyone translating the poems and trying to get some ideas about what Catullus may have been writing about (abstract theories, and realistic ones), this book is a muct have. I highly recommend it.