When Homer originally wrote The Iliad, his words were presented in front of large audiences, intently listening to the heroic and captivating stories as they were read out loud by orators. Anyone who has read the Iliad knows that such a reading would take hours, or even perhaps an entire day. Despite the time commitment of reading through this text out loud, the Portland Art Museum and a group called The Readers of Homer are recreating the traditional presentation of Homer’s work; in their own literary version of 26.2 miles, they are holding a marathon reading of The Illiad.
The reading will take place on December 2nd, beginning at 10am and concluding at 8pm. Four hundred readers will gather to present Homer’s epic tale in the oral tradition. There are spaces available for readers and non-readers alike; however, space is limited. If you are interested in attending and/or reading please click here to register and to find more information. Tickets for college students are only $5 (a $10 discount!) and many slots are still open for attendance and participation.
As this is just two short weeks before finals, the English Department Faculty understands that many students are quite busy and may not be able to attend. Thus, the Department is considering hosting our own marathon reading right here at UP! If you are interested, think this sounds like a swell idea, or simply want to know more about what a marathon reading entails please comment below with any questions and/or suggestions! If the Department and Blog can generate enough interest in a marathon reading, hosting our own can become a reality. Please give us your feedback!