KINGSTON, R.I. – October 26 – What better way to experience a classic like The Odyssey than to go on a journey across the Kingston campus to hear the poem?
While it may not have been a grueling ten year trip back home from Ithaca, the URI community spent a full day, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., on October 19 traveling across campus and reading the epic poem aloud in Elizabeth Wilson’s translation. Departments from the College of Arts and Sciences—philosophy, sociology, classics, history, and theatre—joined with business and oceanography to create this unique interdisciplinary event.
The idea started with a conversation between Nicole Renault, director of the Inner Space Center in the School of Oceanography, and others about possible honors events. Doug Reed, a philosophy professor, shared the idea with Honors Program directors Karl Aspelund and Karen de Bruin. They suggested involving the English and theater departments, as well as faculty with expertise in classics and ancient civilizations. The plan grew into a campus-wide reading inspired by Odysseus’s journey, with strong support from faculty like Rachel Walshe (theatre), Carolyn Betensky (English), Daniel Carpenter (Classics), Bridget Buxton (history), and Cynthia Taylor (sociology).
The event was also linked to the Interstellar Exploration Colloquium of the Honors Program, which explores how people have thought about exploration in the past and considers both the risks and adventures it can bring.
The day started at Lippitt Hall with coffee and snacks for the first two hours of reading. The group then moved to the Robert L. Carothers Library, the Memorial Union, Swan Hall, Edwards Hall, and the new Fine Arts Center, before returning to Lippitt Hall for more snacks and refreshments. There were 24 sign-up slots, each lasting 25 to 45 minutes, and participants could bring costumes, groups of readers, and instruments.
“The marathon reading was a fun event, and I was pleased not only to read a book of The Odyssey, but to see colleagues from across the university and from such a wide variety of disciplines. I look forward to similar events in the future and hope to participate as well,” said Carpenter.
“Each man delights in the work that suits him best.”Homer, The Odyssey
The marathon reminds us that nothing is accomplished alone. While the URI community has groups that enjoy what they do best, it was working together that made this event meaningful. Analyzing the text requires translation from classical language, and storytelling through theatre, literature, or film depends on reflecting on the philosophical questions that come up. Many disciplines contribute to retelling The Odyssey, and no single field can tell the story on its own.
“We are always excited to support and join in anything that encourages students to enjoy language, literature, and performance,” said Betensky. “One of our goals in the English Department is to help students experience more joy. I hope this event does that.”