From Homer to Hashtags: How Modern Adaptations Keep the Odyssey Accessible and Relevant

Abstract

This thesis explores the enduring relevance of the Odyssey in contemporary society through the modern translation and adaptation of two contemporary bards, Dr. Emily Wilson and Jorge Rivera-Herrans. Wilson’s 2018 translation and Rivera-Herrans’ musical adaptation on TikTok are examined to illustrate how the epic has been made accessible to modern audiences. Wilson’s translation, the first English-language version by a woman in over 2,000 years, utilizes poetic language and minimal epithets to modernize the narrative while preserving its beauty. This feminist lens analysis reveals Wilson’s strategic use of gender roles and relationships, contrasting previous translations. Rivera-Herrans’ musical adaptation revives the episodic, musical nature of ancient oral storytelling, engaging a new generation through dynamic, multimedia platforms. This thesis delves into the roles of oral tradition and bardic performance in ancient Greece, providing context for these modern adaptations. By comparing Wilson’s approach and Rivera-Herrans’ grassroots digital project, this research contributes to broader scholarly discourse on the evolution of bardic tradition and its relevance in the digital age. Theoretical frameworks grounded in feminist and postcolonial studies are employed to critique the adaptations, focusing on power dynamics, female agency, and themes of colonialism. Through an analysis of these two distinct, yet complementary approaches, this thesis underscores the importance of modernizing ancient epics to maintain their cultural significance and accessibility, ultimately demonstrating that the Odyssey remains a vital and dynamic narrative in the digital age.