Dracontius' Orestes

This book offers an accurate and readable English translation of the Orestes, accompanied by an introduction and notes that discuss the literary, educational, and rhetorical culture of Vandal North Africa, the poem's major themes, literary influences, and structure and style. It is of interest to students and scholars of ancient literature, ancient epics, the reception of tragedy, and comparative literature, as well as scholars of late antiquity and the general reader interested in the ancient world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 134 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This remarkable work presents the first English translation of Dracontius' Orestes, a Latin poem originating from Vandal North Africa, recounting the mythic tale of the cycle of murder and retribution endured by the family of Agamemnon. The book offers a highly accurate and accessible English rendition of the Orestes, catering to both scholarly and non-scholarly audiences. Accompanied by a comprehensive introduction and detailed notes, the introduction delves into the literary, educational, and rhetorical culture of Vandal North Africa, while also exploring the significant literary aspects of the Orestes, including its major themes, primary literary influences, and structure and style. Additionally, Roche provides a biography of Dracontius and examines the intricate relationship between the Orestes, his Christianity, and the Vandals. The notes elucidate all important allusions to earlier literature, highlight key themes and issues raised throughout the poem, and offer a comprehensive overview of each section, ensuring that readers of all backgrounds can fully comprehend and appreciate the Orestes within the context of ancient and late-antique literature.

Dracontius' Orestes holds immense interest for students and scholars of ancient literature, particularly those specializing in Latin poetry of late antiquity, ancient epics, the reception of tragedy, and comparative literature. Moreover, it is an excellent resource for scholars of late antiquity and the broader audience with an interest in the ancient world.

Weight: 190g
Dimension: 214 x 138 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032131276