PHILADELPHIA — A University of Pennsylvania professor’s translation of “The Odyssey” has sold more than one million copies this year. The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting, Emily Wilson credits renewed interest surrounding Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster film adaptation.
Wilson published her acclaimed English translation in 2017 after spending about five years on the project. She initially believed the book might sell only about one thousand copies.
Publisher W.W. Norton says domestic sales across all formats surpassed one million by July 2. Nolan has cited Wilson’s work among several translations used as references. Wilson says the surge is introducing ancient literature to new audiences. Her next book about translation and classical literature will be released this fall.
