Item #4281 A Burlesque Translation of Homer. James Bridges, attr.
A Burlesque Translation of Homer.

A Burlesque Translation of Homer.

London: Printed For S. Hooper, 1772. Item #4281

4to, [2], iv, 2, [4], 547 pp. Engraved frontispiece featuring a burlesque of the gods. Crudely bound at a later, but early date in paper covered boards titled and ruled in ink at spine, well-battered and soiled, with hinges cracked but holding.

A burlesque translation of the first 12 books of the Iliad, generally attributed to James Bridges, though it has also been suggested that this could be the work of Francis Grose. This appears to be the first quarto edition of this work, having previously appeared in duodecimo editions in 1770 and 1771.

According to the publisher’s preface, Our author is of the opinion that the dignity of the Greek language has perverted the original design of Homer’s Iliad; and that the elegant translation of Mr. Pope has now fixed it a serious epic poem for ever; but he is certain, Homer’s intent was to burlesque both his Gods, Goddesses, and heroes. A literal translation of their speeches plainly shos, that they called one another rogue, and son of a bitch, very cordially; and the Goddesses talked pretty much in the style of our Covent-garden goddesses; so that his is humbly of opinion, ith all due submission to the inimitable language and fire of Mr. Pope, that this burlesque will express Homer’s meaning full as well as his excellent translation.”.

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