Are you an audiobook lover on the hunt for something that takes you back to the roots of literature? The classics of ancient Greece and Rome are not just intriguing but have shaped much of our modern storytelling. Here’s a list of ten timeless pieces you can listen to, whether at home or on the go:
1. The Iliad by Homer
Dive into the world of ancient Greek heroes with this epic poem about the Trojan War. Follow Achilles, a hero filled with passion, as he battles his foes. The characters are larger than life, the battles fierce, and the storytelling extraordinary. It’s more than just history; it’s a tale that speaks to the human spirit.
2. The Odyssey by Homer
Join Odysseus on his long journey home after the Trojan War. Encounter mythical creatures, face life-threatening challenges, and unravel lessons about human nature. It’s not just a story; it’s a captivating adventure that has inspired generations of writers and thinkers.
3. The Aeneid by Virgil
Explore the story of Aeneas, a Trojan hero who sets out to found Rome. This Roman masterpiece connects mythology with history, weaving a rich tapestry of characters and events. It’s a treasure trove for history buffs and myth lovers alike.
4. Metamorphoses by Ovid
This isn’t just a story about the world’s creation. It’s a spellbinding journey through myths and legends of ancient Greece and Rome. Expect magical transformations and fantastical creatures in a narrative that is both poetic and engrossing.
5. The Histories by Herodotus
Take a trip back to the Persian Wars with this intriguing account by Herodotus. It’s more than just a history book; it’s filled with vivid characters and surprising anecdotes. If you love history with a touch of human drama, this one’s for you.
6. The Symposium by Plato
Ever wondered about love and desire? Plato’s dialogue at a dinner party offers deep insights and thought-provoking questions. It’s more than philosophy; it’s a conversation that still resonates with us today.
7. The Republic by Plato
What makes an ideal society? Plato’s timeless work delves into justice and societal structures. The ideas may be ancient, but they still provoke us to think about our modern world.
8. Theogony and Works and Days by Hesiod
Experience the gods and human nature through Hesiod’s poetic lens. These two epic poems are not just myths; they offer rich imagery and insights that still speak to us today.
9. The Oresteia by Aeschylus
Enter the House of Atreus and witness a tragic cycle of violence and revenge. The characters are unforgettable, and the emotions raw and powerful. It’s not just a drama; it’s a reflection of human flaws and strengths.
10. The Three Theban Plays by Sophocles
Explore the tragic fate of Oedipus and his family in this dramatic trilogy. The tension is palpable, the characters complex, and the story a gripping exploration of destiny and human frailty.
These audiobooks are more than just ancient texts; they’re a window into a rich world of the past that still resonates today. You can find these and more audiobooks on Audible, and Apple Books.
And don’t forget to check out our blogs about the best audiobooks to enjoy during road trips!