The Millions

We Should All Be Reading Ancient Poetry Right Now

In 1942, the classicist Edith Hamilton acknowledged the “dark spots” which encroach upon the worlds of Greek myth. Reading ancient poetry today makes you realize how those dark spots have grown. They may be sinister, but like black holes, they suck you in. They are timely reminders of the continuing power of classical verse.

There is nothing like ancient poetry for making you reassess your priorities. , , and can make you feel small and insignificant, but those feelings tend to pass and are worth enduring for the clarity they

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