Dialogues, Volume 2: Actius

Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's Dialogues reflect his diverse interests in religion, philosophy, and literature, and provide a vivid picture of the contemporary gatherings of Pontano and his friends in the humanist academy. Volume 2 includes the Actius, a perceptive treatment of poetic rhythm and a landmark in the history of historiography. This is the first critical edition and translation into English.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 480 pages
\n Publication date: 25 September 2020
\n Publisher: Harvard University Press
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Giovanni Gioviano Pontano, a remarkable figure who lived from 1429 to 1503, had a multifaceted career that saw him serve five kings of Naples as a courtier, official, and diplomat. However, it was his remarkable achievements as a scholar, prose author, and poet that truly catapulted him to fame. His dialogues, a collection of writings, reflect his wide-ranging interests in religion, philosophy, literature, and the everyday life of fifteenth-century Naples. They are particularly noteworthy for their vivid portrayal of Pontano and his friends' gatherings at the humanist academy, which he presided over from around 1471 until shortly before his passing.

In Volume 2 of his dialogues, titled "Actius," the reader is introduced to one of its principal speakers, the renowned Neo-Latin poet Jacopo Sannazaro. This volume is particularly significant as it contains the first comprehensive treatment of the Latin hexameter in the history of philology. The dialogue continues with a thought-provoking discussion of poetic rhythm, a groundbreaking exploration in the field of literary analysis. This critical edition of "Actius" represents a significant milestone in the study of ancient literature, and it is the first translation of this dialogue into English.

Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's dialogues offer a unique window into the intellectual and cultural landscape of fifteenth-century Naples. Through his writings, we gain a deeper understanding of the religious, philosophical, and literary debates that were prevalent during that time. The dialogues also provide a glimpse into the social and political dynamics of the city, showcasing the interactions between different factions and the influence of powerful individuals.

As a scholar, Giovanni Gioviano Pontano made groundbreaking contributions to various fields. He was a respected historian, known for his detailed and accurate accounts of historical events. His works, such as the "History of the Kings of Naples," provided valuable insights into the political and military history of the region. Pontano's expertise in Latin literature also earned him recognition, and he was considered a master of the language and its rhetorical devices.

In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Giovanni Gioviano Pontano was a skilled poet and prose author. His works, such as the "Orlando Furioso," a famous epic poem, showcased his poetic prowess and his ability to weave complex narratives. His prose writings, including essays and treatises, demonstrated his intellectual depth and his ability to engage with a wide range of subjects.

Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's legacy as a writer and intellectual continues to inspire and influence scholars and readers alike. His dialogues serve as a valuable resource for those interested in ancient literature, history, and culture. They provide a glimpse into the minds.
Giovanni Gioviano Pontano, a remarkable figure who lived from 1429 to 1503, had a multifaceted career that saw him serve five kings of Naples as a courtier, official, and diplomat. However, it was his remarkable achievements as a scholar, prose author, and poet that truly catapulted him to fame. His dialogues, a collection of writings, reflect his wide-ranging interests in religion, philosophy, literature, and the everyday life of fifteenth-century Naples. They are particularly noteworthy for their vivid portrayal of Pontano and his friends' gatherings at the humanist academy, which he presided over from around 1471 until shortly before his passing.

In Volume 2 of his dialogues, titled "Actius," the reader is introduced to one of its principal speakers, the renowned Neo-Latin poet Jacopo Sannazaro. This volume is particularly significant as it contains the first comprehensive treatment of the Latin hexameter in the history of philology. The dialogue continues with a thought-provoking discussion of poetic rhythm, a groundbreaking exploration in the field of literary analysis. This critical edition of "Actius" represents a significant milestone in the study of ancient literature, and it is the first translation of this dialogue into English.

Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's dialogues offer a unique window into the intellectual and cultural landscape of fifteenth-century Naples. Through his writings, we gain a deeper understanding of the religious, philosophical, and literary debates that were prevalent during that time. The dialogues also provide a glimpse into the social and political dynamics of the city, showcasing the interactions between different factions and the influence of powerful individuals.

As a scholar, Giovanni Gioviano Pontano made groundbreaking contributions to various fields. He was a respected historian, known for his detailed and accurate accounts of historical events. His works, such as the "History of the Kings of Naples," provided valuable insights into the political and military history of the region. Pontano's expertise in Latin literature also earned him recognition, and he was considered a master of the language and its rhetorical devices.

In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Giovanni Gioviano Pontano was a skilled poet and prose author. His works, such as the "Orlando Furioso," a famous epic poem, showcased his poetic prowess and his ability to weave complex narratives. His prose writings, including essays and treatises, demonstrated his intellectual depth and his ability to engage with a wide range of subjects.

Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's legacy as a writer and intellectual continues to inspire and influence scholars and readers alike. His dialogues serve as a valuable resource for those interested in ancient literature, history, and culture. They provide a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural milieu of fifteenth-century Naples, offering a rich and nuanced perspective on the past.

In conclusion, Giovanni Gioviano Pontano's life and work are a testament to his remarkable talent and versatility as a writer and intellectual. His dialogues, particularly Volume 2, titled "Actius," are a valuable contribution to the field of ancient literature and provide a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural milieu of fifteenth-century Naples. Through his writings, we gain a deeper understanding of the religious, philosophical, and literary debates that were prevalent during that time, as well as the social and political dynamics of the city. Pontano's legacy as a scholar, prose author, and poet continues to inspire and influence scholars and readers alike, and his works serve as a valuable resource for those interested in ancient literature, history, and culture.

\n Weight: 552g\n
Dimension: 141 x 210 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780674237186\n \n