John of Garland, "Integumenta Ovidii": Text, Translation, and Commentary

The Integumenta Ovidii is a difficult work by John of Garland that offers dense allegories on Greek and Roman myths in Ovid's Metamorphoses. This edition is the first in 90 years and includes explanatory notes and textual notes to help readers understand the poem in its medieval context.

Format: Hardback
Length: 63000 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Medieval Institute Publications

The renowned scholar-poet John of Garland penned the Integumenta Ovidii, also known as "Allegories on Ovid," during the early thirteenth century in the vibrant city of Paris. This literary masterpiece emerged at a time when there was a renewed fascination with Classical Latin literature, marking a significant era in the cultural landscape. Within this concise poem, John presents a captivating series of intricate and highly allusive allegories, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Greek and Roman myths found in Ovid's renowned work, Metamorphoses. This profound yet challenging work has captivated and perplexed generations of modern students and scholars alike, offering a profound exploration of the human condition and the complexities of the ancient world.

For the first time in nearly a century, the text is presented here, meticulously edited and translated, drawing upon the evidence of over two dozen manuscripts. Accompanied by comprehensive explanatory notes, these annotations provide valuable insights into John's condensed allegories, helping readers to understand their medieval context and appreciate the depth of his poetic vision. Additionally, textual notes delve into the various complexities and challenges encountered in the transmitted text of the poem, offering insightful improvements upon the earlier editions.

John of Garland's Integumenta Ovidii stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature, transcending time and cultural boundaries to engage and inspire readers of all generations. Through his skillful allegories and meticulous scholarship, he has left an indelible mark on the world of literary criticism, and this edition serves as a valuable contribution to our understanding and appreciation of his remarkable work.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781580445269
Edition number: New ed