The upcoming edition of the Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF) will kick off on January 26. The guest of honour of this edition will be Greece, the country that introduced to the world the long stand philosophical, mythical, artistic, and literary writings that are still present in the today's world. So, here are some of the available Greek writings in Arabic translations.
The Homeric Epics
There is no doubt that the Homeric epics are still on the top in the world of oral and primitive narratives. Homer introduces to the world two of the greatest epics: The Iliad, and The Odyssey. The concept of their greatness is not only their poetic features, but also their flexibility to be adapted and re-scripted throughout different time periods.
For example, the Odyssey is re-introduced in the world after the World War I by the iconic Irish writer James Joyce through his "Ulysses." In addition, it is introduced in the form of parody during one of world-famed animated show "The Simpsons" episodes.
Furthermore, the character of Penelope is re-represented in several novels such as Canadian writer Margaret Atwood's "The Penelopiad," and in Celtic-inspired Canadian singer Loreena McKennitt's "Penelope's Song."
Both Homeric epics were the earliest Greek writings that were translated into Arabic. They are available almost everywhere and in different forms, so bookers can get them easily.
Euripides Tragedies
Legendary Ancient Greek playwright Euripides was one of the influential writers in the world of theatre as he succeeded in improving the representation of his characters psyches, and giving his audience the chance to look inside the souls and minds of his characters.
All Euripides tragedies are available in Arabic and the top recommended versions are the ones translated by the iconic and passionate author and translator Dr. Mounira Karawan and published by the National Centre of Translation.
The Oresteian Trilogy
It was written by the great Ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus; the author was known for introducing his plays in the form of triples, unfortunately, the Orestian is the only trilogy that reached our hands.
The trilogy is available in Arabic with its three parts. The most recommended version is the one translated by the Egyptian pioneer Louis Awad.
Aeschylus, Sophocles, Aristophanes Classics
All works by those prominent Greek writers are available in Arabic and book lovers can easily find them at the National Centre of Translation. Some of those writings were translated by Karawan as well.
Nikos Kazantzakis' "Zorba the Greek" & "Christ Recrucified"
Nikos Kazantzakis was, of course, one of the most prominent Modern Greek writers, especially his "Zorba the Greek," and "Christ Recrucified" introduced new terms in the world of narratives and adventures.
Both books are available in Arabic translations through the National Centre of Translation, and the General Book Authority.
Selected Stories
The National Centre for Translation released a book in Arabic entitled "Selected Stories from Modern Greek Literature." The book carries different well-chosen and collected stories and selections from the best books written by Modern Greek authors.
The book can give the reader a good overview or map about the Greek Modern literature in general.
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