The Homeric Hymns (ePub)

Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a Scottish writer, poet, critic, and contributor to the field of anthropology. He is arguably most recognized for his work as a collector and publisher of folk and fairy tales. Lang's educational background in the Classics is reflected in his scholarly work, 'The Homeric Hymns' - a rich collection of ancient Greek hymns celebrating individual gods. These were initially attributed to Homer, though later scholarship has deemed them the product not of a single author but of a poetic tradition. Lang's literary style is characterized by his careful, yet accessible translation of such works, and his ability to render ancient texts with both scholarly accuracy and a touch of Victorian fluency (Lang, A. 'The Homeric Hymns', 1899). His efforts contributed significantly to the popularization of myth and folklore during his time. Lang's extensive body of work also includes literary criticism, history, and books for children, among which his Fairy Books series remain widely beloved. Through his writings, Lang displayed an enduring passion for mythological narratives and their cultural significance. His influence persists in the fields of folkloristics and the study of mythology, evidencing his role as a prominent figure in the literary and anthropological landscapes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.