Ennius' Annals: Poetry and History

Advances the study of Ennius' Annals, a foundational but now fragmentary work of Latin literature, by exploring the cross-fertilization of recent critical approaches to Latin poetry and historiography and by reflecting on the tools and methods conducive to future literary and historical research on the poem.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 365 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In the face of recent challenges to long-held assumptions about the nature of Ennius' Annals and the editorial methods appropriate to the poem's fragmentary remains, this volume aims to propel Ennian studies forward on three crucial axes. Firstly, a re-evaluation of the literary and historical precedents for and building blocks of Ennius' poem, aimed at revising the history of early Latin literature. Secondly, a cross-fertilization of recent critical approaches to the fields of poetry and historiography, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and methodologies. Thirdly, a reflection on the tools and methods that will best serve future literary and historical research on the Annals and its reception. Adopting diverse approaches to these broad topics, the fourteen papers in this volume showcase the immense potential for saying something meaningful about Ennius' poem and its place in literary history, regardless of any commitment to inevitably speculative totalizing interpretations.

Introduction:
The Annals of Ennius, a monumental Latin epic poem, has long captivated scholars and enthusiasts alike. However, the poem's fragmentary nature and the challenges it presents to traditional editorial methods have led to ongoing debates and discussions in the field of Ennian studies. This volume seeks to address these challenges and advance the study of Ennius' Annals in innovative and meaningful ways.

Re-evaluating Literary and Historical Precedents:
The first axis of this volume focuses on re-evaluating the literary and historical precedents for Ennius' poem. By examining the works that influenced Ennius, as well as the broader cultural and historical context in which he wrote, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the poem's literary and historical significance. This re-evaluation will help revise the history of early Latin literature and shed light on the poem's place within it.

Cross-Fertilization of Critical Approaches:
The second axis of this volume involves cross-fertilization of critical approaches to the fields of poetry and historiography. By bringing together scholars from different disciplines, this volume aims to foster a rich exchange of ideas and methodologies. This cross-pollination will enable scholars to approach Ennius' Annals from new perspectives and explore new avenues for interpretation and analysis.

Reflection on Tools and Methods:
The third axis of this volume involves reflection on the tools and methods that will best serve future literary and historical research on the Annals and its reception. By exploring the latest research techniques and digital tools, scholars can enhance their ability to uncover new insights and interpret the poem's fragmentary remains effectively. This reflection will also help shape the future direction.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this volume aims to move Ennian studies forward on three crucial axes: re-evaluating literary and historical precedents, cross-fertilizing critical approaches, and reflecting on tools and methods. By adopting diverse approaches to these broad topics, the fourteen papers in this volume showcase the immense potential for saying something meaningful about Ennius' poem and its place in literary history. We hope that this volume will inspire further research and discussion in the field of Ennian studies and contribute to our understanding of this important ancient text.

ISBN-13: 9781108723169