The Derveni Papyrus: Cosmology, Theology and Interpretation [Hardcover]

Betegh has delivered what anyone with interest in the Derveni Papyrus has been in anticipation for: a workable translation and a scholarly in depth explication of the text. Of course everyone is still hoping that, in Betegh's own words, 'Prof. Tsantsanoglou's long-awaited edition becomes available'.
I quit holding my breath for that to happen. Let's face it, Laks and Most's 'Studies on the Derveni Papyrus' only serves to wet one's appetite and Tsantsanoglou has failed to come thru. This is not to say that Betegh's book is just a placation. It is what was needed in light of Tsantsanoglou's disappointment for us all.
Betegh analyzes the text from every angle. He discusses the Orphicism in the papyrus, delves into its relevance to and use of Presocratic philosophy, and more. He places the text in the historical context of Grecian thought in a detailed and analytic way. His scholarship is sound and while he makes certain conclusions from his reading of the text they are all thought thru very carefully and backed up with thorough arguments.
As it stands this is the definitive book on the papyrus that can be had. I'm not so sure that Tsantsanoglou could have anything fresh or illuminating to say about the text in contrast to Betegh's treatment of the papyrus, besides his translation. While Tsantsanoglou's translation could have some implications on what issues are of greater relevance to the text, I just don't think that his publication will be able to overshadow the work that Betegh has laid down as foundational for any future scholarship on the papyrus. Everyone will reference Betegh for his interpretation and analysis of the text; and I have the feeling that Tsantsanoglou will be referenced for his translation solely. (That is if he ever publishes the translation or someone wrests it from his dominating possession and publishing rights. And, I say this despite his contribution to the Laks and Most edition.)
This book is important not only for the tentative and workable translation that Betegh gives, but is of important use for studies in Presocratic philosophy, the grecian mystery religions, and the argument for allegorist interpretations of myth (I found this book to complement Peter Struck's thesis in his book, Birth of the Symbol: Ancient Readers at the Limits of Their Texts). It is essential for the library of those who indulge in religious studies, philosophy, classics, myth, and ancient literature. You need this book, I know I did. It did not disappoint!

› Go to Amazon U.S. to see the review  5.0 out of 5 stars