Aeneid

Virgil's Aeneid is a masterpiece of literature, inspired by Homer and portraying human life in all its nobility and suffering.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2020
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Virgil's masterpiece, considered one of the greatest works in all of literature, has been beautifully reissued in a clothbound edition by Coralie Bickford-Smith. Virgil's epic poem, inspired by Homer and serving as a major influence on Dante and Milton, is an immortal work that holds a central place in Western culture and society. Virgil chose Aeneas, a legendary survivor of the fall of Troy and the father of the Roman race, as his hero. Through his narrative, which explores themes of dispossession, defeat, love, and war, Virgil portrayed the full spectrum of human existence, encompassing its nobility, suffering, physicality, and mystery.

The Aeneid, Virgil's grand epic, spans several books and tells the story of Aeneas's journey from Troy to Rome. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and obstacles, including the wrath of the gods, betrayal, and the horrors of war. Despite these hardships, Aeneas remains steadfast in his quest for glory and the establishment of a new Roman empire.

One of the key themes in the Aeneid is the concept of fate. Virgil believes that fate controls the course of human events and that individuals have little control over their destinies. This theme is evident in the various encounters Aeneas has with divine beings, who either guide him or hinder his progress. For example, the goddess Venus, who initially helps Aeneas but later turns against him, symbolizes the unpredictable nature of fate.

Another important theme in the Aeneid is the role of leadership. Virgil portrays Aeneas as a virtuous and just leader, who is able to inspire his men and guide them through difficult times. Aeneas's leadership is tested throughout the poem, particularly when he must decide whether to abandon his men in order to save himself or to stay and fight for his cause.

The Aeneid also explores the nature of love and its various manifestations. Virgil portrays the love between Aeneas and Dido, a princess of Carthage, as a pure and enduring bond. However, their love is ultimately doomed by the interference of fate and the jealousies of other characters.

The poem also delves into the themes of war and its consequences. Virgil portrays the horrors of war, including the destruction of cities, the loss of lives, and the psychological toll it takes on soldiers and civilians. He also highlights the heroism and bravery of those who fight in wars, as well as the sacrifices they make for their countries.

In conclusion, Virgil's Aeneid is a masterpiece of literature that explores a wide range of themes, including fate, leadership, love, war, and the human condition. Through his vivid storytelling and powerful language, Virgil portrays the full spectrum of human existence, from its noblest moments to its darkest depths. The Aeneid remains a timeless work that continues to inspire and influence writers and readers alike.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 206 x 136 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141996332