Heroes and Legends

The Most Influential Characters of Literature

By: Thomas A. Shippey, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Thomas A. Shippey

Length: 12 hrs and 15 mins

Publisher's summary

Odysseus. Robinson Crusoe. Harry Potter. What do these memorable characters have in common? Why do we turn to certain stories again and again? And what impact have they made on world history? These 24 eye-opening lectures give fresh insight into some of the greatest heroes in world literature, from warriors such as Beowulf and Odysseus to unexpected heroes such as Uncle Tom and Sancho Panza.

Professor Shippey gives you an inside glimpse into the writer's process. Learn how authors "write into the gap" to flesh out-or, in some cases, reimagine altogether-old stories, making them new for new readerships with different values. By examining what makes these heroes such compelling characters, you'll see how they provide a window to better understand ourselves.

From the beginnings of world literature through today's bestsellers, look at what makes characters successful-and how they reflect our changing cultural mores. For instance, after the horrors of global war in the 20th century, the world was waiting for a hero like Frodo Baggins, J.R.R. Tolkien's meek hobbit hero, someone called to duty rather than born strong and fearless.

You'll also examine ways that great heroes have changed the course of history, defining nations and redefining our sense of self and our relationships. From the mythical journey of Aeneas to Jane Austen's country dances, you'll survey a wealth of memorable stories and consider why such heroes were necessary-and how they continue to influence our lives today.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2014 The Great Courses (P)2014 The Teaching Company, LLC

Lost interest

I normally give a high rating to lectures that I finish. This one starts off great. My interest was lost later on though, likely due to the lecture starting out with a clear evolution of "the hero" and then turning into what seemed to be a random selection of heroes.

You're Gonna Love It!

I've never listened to a "Great Courses" on Audible that I didn't find at the very least interesting. This particular set of lectures surprised me a lot! And I loved it!

I was expecting Ulysses and other heroes of classical literature. Not so much was I considering the inclusion of Sherlock Holmes, Frodo Baggins, James Bond and, for heaven's sake, Lizbet Salandar of "Dragon Tattoo" fame! Yet here they are, and Professor Shippey makes an enthusiastic and convincing case for including them all and more.

These heroes and heroines (and Shippey includes an impressive number of female examples) are skillfully contrasted and connected as well as put in the context of their classical origins, their own times, and right now. Each discussion revolves around the nature of the example: what makes him/her a hero? How is she/he like and unlike other heroes? Why has he/she stood the test of time and changing tastes and values?

Taking us from less-likely examples such as Elizabeth Bennett and Uncle Tom (don't scoff - listen to what he has to say! ) up to Harry Potter and Katniss Everdeen, the content and presentation of this material is timely, fascinating, enlightening, and inspiring.

There's something for everyone here - it's time excellently spent!

Thomas A. Shippey FTW!

Professor Shippey is fantastic. More than interesting, more than engaging, he's entertaining. All the while, you will learn a ton about the deep state of heroes. Well worth any inspiring authors time.

Interesting content but beware pronunciation

The slight drawback is that the professor seems to have his own ideas on the inflection and pronunciation of quite a number of words, so check another source before you absorb the more unfamiliar names :-) Great concept though, I enjoyed his analysis of what gives these legendary archetypes their staying power, turning up again and again to adapt to changing cultural values.

Variety of characters chosen

What made the experience of listening to Heroes and Legends the most enjoyable?

That Prof. Shippey was straight to the point and very knowledge about what he was talking about.

What about Professor Thomas A. Shippey’s performance did you like?

He was direct about the topic and he often tied in some of the figures with others even though they weren't written at the same time and often in different genres.

more influential characters than Heroes

very opinionated professor but at least he speaks well and with a good accent and clearly knows his literature thoroughly.

Loved it extremely informational

I had new perspective on various characters and books I read and it was always nice re-cap of my reading .

Diving in to heroes and legends

Couldn't be more pleased with this selection. On-depth discussion without over analyzing. Wonderful professor, whose voice was a delight.

Terrific

Excellent lecture that delivers what it promises. Engaging and well presented, the lecturer does a wonderful job, and has a pleasing voice.

My New Fav!

I loved this so much. As an English teacher, I had read most of the novels containing the heros discussed but even for the ones I was unfamiliar with, I was informed and entertained the whole time!