Cultures of all epochs have consulted oracles in times of need. This fascinating exploration of the enduring popularity of oracles examines how they are interpreted and why. Taking examples from literature and history, from the oracles at Delphi to those in Macbeth, and further still to the works of Kafka and Bob Dylan, and even in the film The Matrix, Wood combines storytelling and commentary to provide a lively account of humanity’s persistent faith in signs, which continues to exert an important influence on the course of civilization.
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - Elegant, startling and refreshingly original
It's a delight to pick up a book of this calibre. As Wood explores the depth and breadth of the ten ancient oracles he tells a vivid tale encompassing Kafka, Oedipus Rex, the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, The Matrix and Macbeth, as well as Delphi, Dionysus and popular horoscopes. The Road to Delphi : Scenes from the History of Oracles is elegant, startling and refreshingly original. I couldn't put it down.
Rating: - Good, but not great.
I think I should start by saying that the writing is a little heavy handed, so if you don't have a genuine academic interest in oracles, both historic and modern, then it probably isn't for you.
I enjoyed it well enough. I liked the academic aspect because it made my brain work, which doesn't happen often enough these days. It was full of interesting information on belief in oracles, ancient practices, and modern ties to old ways.
That being said, it was a little like ... Read More
Rating: - Very very good
This is an enjoyable book, one which can be read straight through or left at one end of the sofa and picked up and continued when the mood strikes one. Or when the omens are promising. The author is learned and writes gracefully, evoking an earlier age -- or many earlier ages -- when literary critics and scholars wrote lucid, elegant, and insightful prose for their peers as well as for the educated -- or simply the interested -- general reader.
I won't say much about the topic, oracles, ... Read More
Rating: - Do not waste your time or money reading this book.
The book lacks any sort of cohesiveness. The author rambles on about superfluous facts, which makes for a very dull story. Do not waste your time reading the book. The poor showing also indicates that books reviewed by the Washington Post (as this one was )can be duds.
- Elegant, startling and refreshingly original
- Very very good
- Do not waste your time or money reading this book.
