Literary Criticism in Antiquity: A Sketch of Its Development: Graeco-Roman

Atkins' "Ancient Literary Criticism" is a two-volume sketch of the development of ancient literary criticism, ending with a look at the styles of literary criticism after the rise of the Roman Empire.

Format: Hardback
Length: 374 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1934, this book contains the second volume of Atkins' sketch of the development of ancient literary criticism. Atkins concludes his history with a look at the styles of literary criticism prevalent after the rise of the Roman Empire, including the responses of figures such as Cicero, Tacitus, and Lucian to changes in the literature of their day.

The book, originally published in 1934, is a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of ancient literary criticism. Atkins delves into the rich tapestry of literary styles and approaches that emerged during the ancient world, spanning from the classical era to the post-Roman Empire period.

In the second volume of this sketch, Atkins takes readers on a journey through the various schools of literary criticism that flourished during this time. He examines the contributions of influential scholars like Cicero, Tacitus, and Lucian, who were deeply engaged with the changing landscape of literature and responded to the challenges and opportunities it presented.

Cicero, for instance, was a renowned orator and statesman who played a significant role in shaping Roman political and cultural life. In his writings, Cicero addressed a wide range of subjects, including literature, philosophy, and history. He believed that literature should be a tool for educating and inspiring people, and he advocated for a balanced approach to criticism that considered both the artistic merits of a work and its societal significance.

Tacitus, on the other hand, was a historian who wrote extensively about the Roman Empire. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of historical events and personalities. Tacitus' literary criticism was influenced by his belief in the importance of historical accuracy and his commitment to presenting a balanced view of the past.

Lucian, a satirist and writer, was known for his sharp wit and his ability to parody the conventions and hypocrisies of his time. He used his literary criticism to challenge the dominant ideologies and social structures of his day and to promote a more egalitarian and democratic society.

Through his analysis of the responses of these figures to changes in the literature of their day, Atkins provides a valuable insight into the complex and dynamic nature of ancient literary criticism. He explores the ways in which different schools of thought influenced each other, the ways in which literary works were interpreted and analyzed, and the ways in which literary criticism played a role in shaping the development of ancient culture and society.

The book also includes a wealth of examples and illustrations that help to bring the historical context to life. Atkins includes excerpts from the works of famous authors such as Virgil, Horace, and Ovid, as well as from lesser-known works that provide a glimpse into the diversity and richness of ancient literature.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the development of ancient literary criticism. It provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the various styles and approaches that emerged during the ancient world, and it sheds light on the contributions of influential scholars such as Cicero, Tacitus, and Lucian to the field. Through its analysis of the responses of these figures to changes in the literature of their day, the book offers a valuable insight into the complex and dynamic nature of ancient literary criticism and its role in shaping the development of ancient culture and society.

Weight: 857g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367764135