Heroes and Legends
The Most Influential Characters of Literature
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Heroes and Legends
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Narrated by:
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Thomas A. Shippey
About this listen
Odysseus. Robinson Crusoe. Harry Potter. What do these memorable characters have in common? Why do we turn to certain stories again and again? And what impact have they made on world history? These 24 eye-opening lectures give fresh insight into some of the greatest heroes in world literature, from warriors such as Beowulf and Odysseus to unexpected heroes such as Uncle Tom and Sancho Panza.
Professor Shippey gives you an inside glimpse into the writer's process. Learn how authors "write into the gap" to flesh out-or, in some cases, reimagine altogether-old stories, making them new for new readerships with different values. By examining what makes these heroes such compelling characters, you'll see how they provide a window to better understand ourselves.
From the beginnings of world literature through today's bestsellers, look at what makes characters successful-and how they reflect our changing cultural mores. For instance, after the horrors of global war in the 20th century, the world was waiting for a hero like Frodo Baggins, J.R.R. Tolkien's meek hobbit hero, someone called to duty rather than born strong and fearless.
You'll also examine ways that great heroes have changed the course of history, defining nations and redefining our sense of self and our relationships. From the mythical journey of Aeneas to Jane Austen's country dances, you'll survey a wealth of memorable stories and consider why such heroes were necessary-and how they continue to influence our lives today.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.
©2014 The Great Courses (P)2014 The Teaching Company, LLCWhat listeners say about Heroes and Legends
Average Customer RatingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Deirdre E Siegel
- 02-08-2021
Professor Shippey is great :-)
Like the title says, this course is about the main character in fictional literary works.
Related like a story itself.
Thoroughly pleasurable pursuit into print on paper :-)
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Michael
- 26-07-2014
Excellent and insightful.
Would you listen to Heroes and Legends again? Why?
Professor Shippey offers great insights into the evolution of heros and villains in literature.
What did you like best about this story?
The variety of characters and the changing attitudes that shaped them over the centuries.
What does Professor Thomas A. Shippey bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?
He tells the story, as opposed to me reading it.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
The book is broken into lectures of one hour duration, perfect for walking or exercise sessions.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Mrs Hania Butt
- 27-08-2022
Absolutely magnificent
What a treat this was, presented so expertly and created so many moments of wonder, absolutely delightful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Roger
- 10-10-2015
A great way to learn about literature
I enjoyed the Prof's selection of heroes, and especially the insights he gave into how legends fit the society in which they are created.
He inspired me to go back to The Odyssey, which I have put down too many times. It's surprising how readable the language is, once you understand the theme of the story.
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