Review from previous edition [Halliwell] is the ideal close reader... This book represents criticism at its best... detailed, learned, and nuanced arguments... a pleasure to read. (D. Konstan, Gnomon)

[a] deeply learned collection of essays ... a book so rich in innovative readings of Greek literary theory. (Llewelyn Morgan, Times Literary Supplement)

[a] probing overview of the Greek critical tradition... add[s] complexity and nuance to longstanding concerns...a subtle and humane defense of poetry... Halliwell's arguments [are] closely reasoned, comprehensively informed, and clear. (Andrew Ford, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews)

[p]rovides numerous insights... Halliwell's analyses are always intelligent, sharp and illuminating. (R. Nünlist, CJ-Online)

Halliwell's project is a very successful one... critical, engaging, cogent... full of insights and interest... [it] offers new, sensitive and challenging interpretations of the most important texts in Greek poetics... (H. H. Koning, Journal of Hellenic Studies)

...thoughtful and often innovative approaches... I found his arguments persuasive and his scholarship very impressive... a consistently useful guide through the vast ocean of scholarship on this important area. (S. Chambers, Journal of Classical Teachers)

[an] important new book... very rich and original... subtle, precise, and judicious in its boldness. (P. Boitani, Il sole 24)

[a]n engaging study of the interplay between Greek views of poetry as a source of ecstasy and as a medium for truth and human values. (S. E. Goins, CHOICE)