How McCaughren Uses Pope's Translation of "The Odyssey" in her Narrative Retelling Titled Odysseus

Title: The Art of Transformation: Comparing Pope's Translation of "The Odyssey" and McCaughren's "Odysseus" Introduction The enduring legacy of Homer's epic poem, "The Odyssey", has encouraged countless retellings and reinterpretations of the tale. Alexander Pope's 18th-century translation is one of the most celebrated renditions of the classic work. In the narrative retelling titled "Odysseus" by McCaughren, the author draws on and transforms several passages from Pope's translation to create a unique and contemporary take on Homer's epic. This essay explores the similarities and differences between Pope's translation and McCaughren's retelling, with a focus on a specific passage that highlights the character of Odysseus. Passage Selection: Odysseus and the Sirens For the purpose of this analysis, we will focus on the episode where Odysseus encounters the Sirens, a group of enchanting creatures whose alluring song has the power to lead sailors to their death. This passage, as translated by Pope, is a prime example of how McCaughren has drawn inspiration from the original work and modified it to suit her narrative. Pope's Translation: In Pope's version, the Sirens sing to Odysseus and his crew, attempting to lure them to their doom. Pope's translation emphasizes the descriptive imagery used by Homer to convey the danger and otherworldly beauty of the Sirens: "Here with melodious skill the Sirens sing, And circling, touch the strings' responsive twang... " (Pope, Book XII, lines 206-207). Furthermore, Pope's translation also highlights the cunning and intelligence of Odysseus by revealing his foreknowledge of the Sirens' threat and his preparations to avoid their deadly influence: "Yet, yet beware! and think me not thy foe, Here Scylla howls, and dire Charybdis there... With strict injunction, lest by listening long We perish victims to the syrensong!" (Pope, Book XII, lines 217-224). McCaughren's Retelling: In McCaughren's "Odysseus", a similar event takes place, but with significant alterations that reflect the author's distinct narrative style and modern sensibilities. The Sirens are still present, yet their portrayal is more menacing, making their threat to the sailors more palpable: "The Sirens, birdlike creatures with the heads of beautiful women, were perched on the rocks nearby, their piercing voices promising tales of wisdom and glory... " (McCaughren, Chapter 15). Additionally, McCaughren delves deeper into Odysseus's character by providing greater insight into his thought process and his somewhat conflicting desires. He longs to hear the Sirens' enchanting song, but at the same time, fears to put his crew in mortal danger: "Odysseus felt torn, desperate to hear the Sirens' song and gain their wisdom but determined to protect his crew from their treacherous allure" (McCaughren, Chapter 15). Comparison: Similarities and Differences Both versions draw inspiration from Homer's original telling and demonstrate clear similarities in the portrayal of both Odysseus and the Sirens. In both passages, the Sirens are described as enchanting yet deadly creatures, highlighting their irresistible and dangerous nature. Additionally, both narrations emphasize Odysseus's cunning intellect and ability to resist the Sirens through a plan he had devised beforehand. However, McCaughren's retelling showcases key differences that reflect her intention to create a distinct narrative while remaining faithful to the original work. Instead of borrowing directly from Pope's translation, McCaughren reinvents the scene with her own unique descriptions and creates deeper emotional connections between the characters and the reader. This is evident in her exploration of Odysseus's internal conflict, which highlights the character's vulnerability and relatability. Conclusion In conclusion, McCaughren's "Odysseus" serves as an excellent example of how a modern retelling can draw on and transform classical works such as Pope's translation of "The Odyssey". While staying true to the core elements of the original passage, the careful selection and modification of the Sirens' episode illustrates the delicate balance of both honoring the original work and providing a fresh perspective on an age-old tale. This balance ultimately provides readers with a rich narrative experience that brings the epic hero, Odysseus, to life.