Ovid: A Very Short Introduction

Ovid's "Metamorphoses" is a prophecy that has lasted for two millennia, and he is the only ancient poet of the Greco-Roman world to have a deeper or more lasting impact on subsequent literature and art. This Very Short Introduction explains his background, social and literary, and introduces his poetry on love, metamorphosis, Roman festivals, and his own exile. It also explores his immense influence on later literature and art, from Shakespeare to Bernini. Ovid's poetry is revealed as enduringly scintillating, his personal story compelling, and the issues his life and poetry raise of continuing relevance and interest.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Vivam, the very last word of Ovid's masterpiece, The Metamorphoses, holds a remarkable prophecy: I shall live. If we continue to read it two millennia after Ovid's death, it is a testament to his unparalleled influence on subsequent literature and art. While Ovid was not the sole ancient author with aspirations for eternal readership, his unparalleled impact on subsequent literature and art sets him apart. In the modern era, no Greek or Roman poet is as accessible to artists, writers, and the general reader as Ovid. His voice remains a compellingly contemporary one, as modern as it seemed to his contemporaries in Augustan Rome. However, Ovid was not just a man of his time; his own story was intricately intertwined with that of the first emperor Augustus, and his poetry subtly reflected the cultural and political upheavals of the contemporary city. It captured the essence of public life, sexual mores, religion, and urban landscapes, while also harnessing the rich poetic tradition bequeathed to him by Greek literature and his Roman predecessors.

This Very Short Introduction provides an insightful exploration of Ovid's background, social and literary context, and introduces his poetry. It delves into his profound love for the art of transformation, his vivid portrayal of Roman festivals, and his personal journey of exile. Llewelyn Morgan also highlights Ovid's immense influence on later literature and art, spanning from Shakespeare to Bernini. Throughout the book, Ovid's poetry is revealed as enduringly scintillating, his personal story compelling, and the issues his life and poetry raise of continuing relevance and interest.

The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press offers a comprehensive range of titles in nearly every subject area. These pocket-sized books are designed to provide concise yet comprehensive insights into various subjects, making them an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge. By delving into the lives and works of influential figures like Ovid, the series offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human history and culture. Whether you are a novice or an expert in a particular field, these introductions provide a valuable starting point for further exploration and discovery.

Weight: 114g
Dimension: 111 x 173 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198837688