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, LLCListeners also enjoyed...
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What listeners say about Heroes and Legends
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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
- Ian
- 23-02-16
For those who slept through English literature
Who was your favorite character and why?
Beowulf and Bond.
Any additional comments?
This was an excellent way to frame a history of literature overview. Good for literature newbs, but also likely informative for those who want a bit of reading inspiration.
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1 person found this helpful
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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
- KJGow
- 06-09-18
An outstanding piece!
By far, one the best pieces I have ever been exposed to in the media and literature. Clear, to the point, succinct, engaging and insightful. I salute the author for sharing his experience and wisdom.
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Overall4 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story4 out of 5 stars
- Storfod
- 08-07-14
Society Shapes Heroes
Would you consider the audio edition of Heroes and Legends to be better than the print version?
Yes! Shippey is engaging. He's lecturing is more like story telling really.
What other book might you compare Heroes and Legends to, and why?
Other than the other listens from 'The Great Lectures', this lecture reminds me of the documentaries from the LoftR DVD set.
Have you listened to any of Professor Thomas A. Shippey’s other performances? How does this one compare?
Sadly no.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
Yes, and I did - almost.
Any additional comments?
Shippey is engaging. I especially appreciated his points on how the heroes tell us what kind of society tells their stories.
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2 people found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story4 out of 5 stars
- Amazon Customer
- 07-09-19
Very interesting
I was not sure what to expect of these lectures but ended up enjoying them a great deal although I did end up increasing the speed of the lecturer as it was slightly too slow for me. But it was an interesting tour around a wide variety of different characters.
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1 person found this helpful
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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
- Alan T Butcher
- 05-06-14
Great Lecturer and great survey of heroes.
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Yes, it's great to get a reliable and extensive overview of such huge subject.
What was one of the most memorable moments of Heroes and Legends?
Don Quixote and Sancho Panza turning out to be so significant.
Which scene did you most enjoy?
1. Tom Shippey talks Tolkien, a combination made in Valinor.
If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?
Having seen him give two talks in person a film would be justified, tagline: "Best Lecturer you've ever seen!"
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