I ordered this in paperback; the print is very clear and readable. The size is 5 inches by 7 inches, which is comfortable for reading. I would recommend to all. Every countr) has its "national narrative" recounting epic events. The Lusíads could best be viewed as something similar to Homer's "Iliad & Odyssey". Also, it is very nationalistic, much like the American idea of "Manifest Destiny". This book narrates the Portuguese "discovery" of Africa, India and the Far East. There are 250+ million Portuguese speakers in the world. This books provides some clear insights into the Portuguese culture.
I am reading this English translation simultaneously with the original in Portuguese; plus, several literary criticisms / academic analyses in Portuguese. It is accurate and very nuanced. The translator was able to maintain this epic poem's octet (8-line verse / sonnet) format and included an excellent introduction and explanatory end notes, which are essential.
I am a graduate student at a university in Portugal. This book is making my 6-month "Os Lusíadas" research project much easier.
Most importantly, the author of this translation worked for 16 years in the West Indies and East Africa; he knows the territory Camões describes in this book. Also, he is a poet and teaches at a university in Lisbon. His English is impeccable.
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