The Modern Scholar: Singers and Tales cover art

The Modern Scholar: Singers and Tales

Oral Tradition and the Roots of Literature

 Preview
Try Premium Plus free
1 credit a month to buy any audiobook in our entire collection.
Access to thousands of additional audiobooks and Originals from the Plus Catalogue.
Member-only deals & discounts.
Auto-renews at $16.45/mo after 30 days. Cancel anytime.

The Modern Scholar: Singers and Tales

By: Professor Michael D. C. Drout
Narrated by: Professor Michael D. C. Drout
Try Premium Plus free

Auto-renews at $16.45/mo after 30 days. Cancel anytime.

Buy Now for $16.99

Buy Now for $16.99

About this listen

In this course, Professor Michael D. C. Drout traces literature back to its ultimate sources in oral tradition. Drout shows us how works as varied as the Odyssey, Beowulf, the Finnish Kalevala, and epic songs from the former Yugoslavia were shaped by their origins as songs sung - and composed - before a live audience. Understanding the oral roots of these great works lets us see them in a whole new light. From classical texts to contemporary digital media, Drout demonstrates how the dynamics of oral tradition shape the verbal art that makes us who we are.

©2014 Michael D. C. Drout (P)2014 Crescite Group, LLC Ancient Tradition
All stars
Most relevant  
I have been going through as much of Michael Drout's material as I can. This one, though, is particularly special to me as a songwriter. He had a sympathetic and sensitive ear for the aural artform and his insights into the structure are illuminating.

I really appreciate that he is willing to give his opinion, or, more properly, his judgement. Others in adjacent literature and history courses tire listeners with endless caveats and counterfactuals so that the essential is lost. Drout is careful without being confusing (or confused).

Thanks so much doctor Drout. These courses are a real pleasure.

Drout is wonderful

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.