This book is extremely stimulating but to be used with caution. Whitmarsh's work manifests an enviable familiarity with the most recent bibliography and an extremely acute critical eye, and it will serve as a valuable guide to the slipperiness of texts written in an age of extraordinary literary self-consciousness.
Journal of Hellenic Studies
This book will be read both for its penetrating treatment of individual passages and more general discussions.
Journal of Hellenic Studies
Whitmarsh fully makes his case that a lively and engaged inventiveness, not a disempowered inferiority, is the mark of his authors.
JACT Review
Whitmarsh is an expert and witty reader, and the book would work well as an anthology of critical readings for those unfamiliar with the texts.
JACT Review
With a sophistication fully equal to that of his subjects, Whitmarsh deploys the full fire-power of literary and cultural theory, but in an accessible and jargon-free way.
JACT Review
Tim Whitmarsh is possibly the most interesting and sophisticated critic writing on Greek Imperial literature these days, and this important, groundbreaking new book should solidify this reputation. The breadth, subtlety, and richness of writing on display is remarkable ... for once, the expansive title of a book actually matches the scope of its contents ... essential reading for anyone attempting to grapple with the issues involved in reading or interpreting Greek Imperial literature.
Bryn Mawr Classical Review