Of course it’s not just literature that’s replete with classical allusions, the visual arts are also full of references to the classical myths as well. While Shakespeare and Keats are obvious examples of those who have been inspired by or who have referenced the stories in their work, Fry also makes sure we’re aware of how deeply ingrained the stories are in all of European culture, not just English. Aside from everything else, Fry has a wide breadth of knowledge to draw upon which allows him to make reference to how the stories have influenced writers throughout history. What he does do wonderfully is use his presence to make the stories accessible to a new generation of readers.Įven more remarkably, these versions of the stories should also appeal to those who have read other interpretations previously. He is too skilled to allow this book to be more about him than his material. However, while Fry does imbue the pages with his wit and intelligence, he doesn’t allow the force of his personality to interfere with the stories themselves. As you move through the pages you can’t help but feeling like an old friend is telling you all these stories while the two of you’re sitting around chatting. Through his various television and film appearances and work on audio books, specifically the “Harry Potter” series, its rather dry and acerbic tone has permeated our awareness. Then there’s the fact you can almost hear Fry’s voice as you’re reading.
How many authors do you know who can reference Monty Python, Percy Jackson and classical Greek Scholars without sounding affected? Of course, there has been plenty of retellings of these stories over the years, so what separates this version from the rest? Well, to put it succinctly, it’s Fry himself who makes the difference. The fact he’s been able to stay true to them without making them dry as dust, without playing to the lowest common denominator by dumbing the stories down, speaks volumes to his ability as a raconteur. In Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold, from Penguin/Random House, Stephen Fry has elected to take on the nearly impossible task of retelling Greek Mythology for a modern audience.
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