Greek and Latin Poetry

Angelo Poliziano was a Renaissance poet and scholar who was inspired by Homer and Greek Anthology. This collection includes all of his Greek and Latin poetry, translated into English for the first time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2019
Publisher: Harvard University Press

Angelo Poliziano (1454–1494) was a renowned Renaissance scholar-poet and a prominent figure in Florence during the Age of the Medici. His extensive poetic oeuvre, composed in diverse meters, encompassed a range of forms, including epigrams, elegies, verse epistles, and translations of Hellenistic Greek poets. Among the earliest Latin poets of the Renaissance to draw inspiration from Homer and the works of the Greek Anthology, Poliziano's verse also bore the imprint of his profound exploration of Catullus, Martial, and Statius. This poetic tapestry spanned from love songs to funeral odes, from prayers to hymns, from scathing invectives aimed at his rivals to panegyrics celebrating his teachers, artists, fellow humanists, and his esteemed patron, Lorenzo de Medici, known as "il Magnifico."

The present volume presents an exhaustive collection of all of Poliziano's Greek and Latin poetry, with the exception of the Silvae, which was published in 2004 as ITRL 14. For the first time, these remarkable works have been translated into English, allowing a broader audience to appreciate the brilliance of Poliziano's poetic language and the profound insights he imparted through his verses.

Angelo Poliziano's literary achievements were recognized during his lifetime, and he enjoyed a close association with the Medici family. His poetry often reflected his political and social commentary, as well as his deep admiration for classical literature and art. His verse epistles, in particular, showcased his skill in crafting witty and sophisticated prose, displaying a mastery of literary forms and a keen understanding of human nature.

Poliziano's influence on subsequent poets and writers was significant, and his works continue to be studied and celebrated today. His poetry remains a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Renaissance and the enduring power of human expression. By presenting his Greek and Latin poetry in English translation, this volume aims to introduce a new generation of readers to the brilliance of Angelo Poliziano and his contribution to the world of literature.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 207 x 146 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674984578