University Students Publish Modern Translation of Euripides’ "Trojan Women"

In an ambitious endeavor that bridges ancient tragedy with modern sensibilities, the students of the BA Greek and Latin Languages and Culture program have unveiled a contemporary translation of Euripides’ "Trojan Women". The launch, which took place on February 21, 2025, marks a significant achievement in both academic and literary circles.

The "Trojan Women", a poignant play written by Euripides in 415 BC, portrays the fates of the women of Troy after their city has been sacked, their men killed, and as they wait to be taken away as slaves. Despite its ancient origins, the themes of the play resonate deeply with modern audiences, making it a perfect candidate for a fresh translation that speaks directly to today's societal issues.

The translation project was led by a group of undergraduate students, supervised by professors who are experts in ancient Greek literature. Over the course of two semesters, the students immersed themselves in the complexities of ancient Greek language and cultural nuances to produce a translation that maintains the poetic power of the original while making it accessible for contemporary readers.

"This translation is not just about converting words from Greek to English," said project leader and senior student, Emma Richardson. "It's about conveying the emotional and thematic layers of the play in a way that resonates today. Our goal was to make the voices of the Trojan women heard and understood in our time."

The project also included a series of workshops and public readings, where segments of the translation were performed to gather feedback and further refine the text. These interactive sessions provided valuable insights into the interpretative challenges and creative decisions faced by the translators.

The final product is not only a testament to the students' hard work and dedication but also serves as an educational resource that will aid in teaching Greek tragedy. The university plans to incorporate this new translation into future curriculum and hopes it will inspire other departments to undertake similar projects.

Professor Helen Troy, head of the BA Greek and Latin Languages and Culture program, praised the initiative: "Our students have not only honed their linguistic skills but have also deepened their understanding of literary analysis, historical context, and cultural relevance. This project exemplifies the kind of hands-on learning that is crucial in the humanities."

The translation is available for purchase through the university’s website and local bookstores, with proceeds going towards funding future educational projects within the department.

For more details on the project or to purchase a copy of the translation, readers are encouraged to visit the university's official project page here.